A Guide to the Greece Golden Visa for Foreigners Living in Turkey
As a foreigner living in Turkey, you’ve discovered a country with a unique blend of culture and opportunity. But if you’re looking for a smooth pathway to Europe, one of the most attractive options is the Greece Golden Visa program. This guide will provide all the essential information you need to know about this program, including eligibility, investment options, the step-by-step application process from Turkey, and the numerous benefits it offers.
What is the Greece Golden Visa and Who is Eligible?
The Greece Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program that grants a five-year residence permit in Greece to non-EU citizens who make a qualifying investment. It’s a particularly practical solution for foreigners residing in Turkey, as the application can be managed from Turkey through a legal representative.
The program is open to citizens of any country outside the European Union. This includes Americans, Russians, Chinese, Iranians, Saudis, and many other nationalities living legally in Turkey. The program’s inclusive nature makes it an excellent option for anyone seeking to gain a foothold in Europe without a complex visa process.
Investment Tiers and Options
The Greece Golden Visa investment amount has recently been adjusted, with new tiers introduced to balance real estate prices across the country. The Golden Visa Turkey search term is often linked to these new tiers, as investors seek to understand the current rules.
- €250,000 Golden Visa: This is the standard investment threshold, applicable in most rural and less densely populated areas of Greece.
- €400,000 Golden Visa: This tier applies to popular and developing regions, particularly where property values are rising.
- €800,000 Golden Visa: This applies to high-demand areas like central Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, and Santorini. The recent changes have highlighted the need to choose your investment location carefully.
While real estate investment is the most popular choice, the program also offers other options, including:
- Investing in Greek government bonds.
- Purchasing shares or bonds in Greek companies.
- Making a fixed-term deposit in a Greek bank.
This flexibility allows investors to choose the option that best fits their financial goals.
The Application Process for Foreigners in Turkey
Applying for the Greece Golden Visa for foreigners living in Turkey can be a streamlined process with the right guidance. Here is a step-by-step overview of how it works:
- Consultation and Planning: The first step is to contact a professional firm like Tesla Travel. Their experts will help you understand your options and devise an investment plan that aligns with your goals and budget.
- Investment Completion: Once you’ve chosen your investment, a Greek lawyer, appointed through your consultant, will handle the legal and financial aspects of the transaction on your behalf.
- Document Gathering: All necessary documents, including your passport copies, a clean criminal record, and proof of legal residency in Turkey, are gathered. This is a crucial step where your consultant can provide invaluable assistance.
- Application Submission: The complete application file is submitted to the Greek authorities. This can often be done by your lawyer in Greece, minimizing the need for you to travel.
- Biometric Data Collection: After the application is submitted, you will attend a pre-arranged appointment in Greece to provide your biometric data (fingerprints and photo). This is typically a one-day trip.
- Residence Card Issuance: Upon approval, a five-year residence permit card is issued to you and your family. This card can be renewed every five years, as long as the investment is maintained.
Key Advantages and Benefits
The Greece Golden Visa offers a range of compelling benefits beyond simple residency.
- Schengen Area Freedom: With your residence permit, you and your family can travel freely within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This is a major advantage for those frequently traveling to Europe from Turkey.
- Family Inclusion: The program allows you to include your spouse, children under 21, and your parents in your application, providing a secure future for your entire family.
- No Residency Requirement: Unlike many other programs, the Greece Golden Visa does not require you to live in Greece to maintain your residency. This offers maximum flexibility for business owners or individuals who wish to continue living and working in Turkey.
- Access to Services: The residence permit gives you and your family access to the Greek public education and healthcare systems, should you choose to use them.
FAQs for Foreigners in Turkey
Can I apply for the Golden Visa if I am not a Turkish citizen?
Yes, the program is open to all non-EU citizens, regardless of their country of residence. Your legal residency in Turkey allows you to manage the application process from here.
Do I have to live in Greece to keep my residency?
No, a key benefit is that there is no minimum stay requirement. You only need to visit Greece once to provide your biometric data.
How long does the application process take?
The processing time can vary but typically takes between 3 to 6 months after all required documents are submitted.
Conclusion: A Door to Europe from Turkey
The Greece Golden Visa is more than just a legal document; it’s an investment in your future and the future of your family. It provides a stable, secure, and flexible path to European residency, all from the convenience of your life in Turkey. With a streamlined process and numerous benefits, it’s an opportunity that savvy investors are taking advantage of.
For a hassle-free and professional experience, contact Tesla Travel today. Their expert consultants specialize in assisting foreigners in Turkey with their Golden Visa applications, providing personalized guidance and handling all the complexities for you.
Contact: +90 552 532 48 48
