Acting quickly made all the difference. We secured a great apartment and peace of mind for the future.
David R.
Entrepreneur , UK
PROFILE
Entrepreneur & Family
Main applicant
47 y.o.
Spouse
40 y.o.
Daughter
20 y.o.
goals
Client Requirements
Family EU residency
Property under €250,000
Act before policy change
Situation
In summer 2024, a UK-based entrepreneur approached Astons with a time-sensitive mission: secure EU residency under Greece’s Golden Visa program before the minimum investment threshold rose to €800,000. At that time, Piraeus still qualified under the €250,000 threshold for new builds — a regulation that changed in August 2024.
He sought a modern, visa-eligible property that would qualify his entire family under one streamlined application and offer long-term rental value. With Brexit limiting EU mobility for UK citizens, a residency foothold on the continent was part of a broader lifestyle and financial strategy.
Solution
Astons identified a newly built, move-in-ready apartment in walking distance from Zea Marina. The investor moved fast, finalizing the purchase within weeks and securing one of the last €250K new-build deals before the rules changed again.
By leveraging our local presence and legal team, the investor completed the acquisition and submitted the Golden Visa application immediately.
Step-by-Step: How the Investor Secured Greek Residency
Initial Consultation with Astons
We discussed the investor’s timeline, budget, and family inclusion goals. Our team mapped out urgent opportunities still qualifying under the €250K route.
Property Sourcing and Due Diligence
Astons presented select listings in Piraeus. A modern 1-bedroom apartment near Zea Marina was selected, and legal checks began within days.
Visit to Athens and Finalization
The investor traveled to Athens, completed viewings, and signed contracts. Astons coordinated all registrations, tax payments, and documentation.
Golden Visa Application Submission
Immediately after property registration, our legal team submitted the residency application. White Paper documents were issued while awaiting the final cards.
Biometric Registration and Permit Issuance
On a second trip, the family completed biometric registration. Residency cards were approved and issued within 6 months of purchase.
Current Investment Thresholds | Global Comparison of RBI Programs
Program
Investment Threshold
Processing Time
Schengen Access
Physical Presence Requirement
Greece
Residency
from €250,000
4 months
None
None
Portugal
Residency
from €500,000
18 months
None
None
Malta
Residency
from €169,000
9 months
None
None
Cyprus
Residency
from €300,000
8 months
None
None
Hungary
Residency
from €250,000
4 months
None
None
Investment Summary: Piraeus Apartment Route Item
Cost Apartment in Piraeus
€250,000
Transfer Tax (3.09%)
€7,725
Notary & Legal Fees
€4,000
Immigration Fees (family)
€2,150
Health Insurance
€900
Additional Costs:
Astons legal and service fees
determined on a case-by-case basis
Total Investment:
€264,775
Personalised Cost Breakdown for Program Participation
The investor secured full EU residency for his family and a modern, high-potential apartment in one of Athens’ fastest-growing districts.
The property is projected to deliver 3.5% gross annual rental yield and offers direct access to the Athens Riviera lifestyle.
Astons’ guidance enabled fast, compliant execution just before the investment threshold changed — a timely move that combined long-term mobility, lifestyle, and property value.
Why Greece?
Residency by investment from €250,000
Fast processing (3–6 months)
No obligation to live in the country
Visa-free access to the Schengen Area
Company registration, VAT, euro bank account
Income-generating real estate
Potential route to EU citizenship
Non-dom tax regime: €100,000 per year on all global income
Access to EU banking, healthcare, and education systems
At present, Greece’s Golden Visa is one of the most affordable ways to obtain EU residency by investment. The residence permit is valid for five years and can be renewed indefinitely — with no requirement to live in Greece.
Why Astons?
Astons was awarded Best Real Estate Agency in Greece (2024–2025) by the European Property Awards. With over 35 years of experience, our Athens-based team offers:
Legal, financial, and property expertise
Priority access to exclusive investment listings
End-to-end support for UK and international families
Whether you’re racing a policy deadline or planning long-term, Astons delivers fast, secure pathways to EU residency.
Contact us today to explore your eligibility under the €250K route before it disappears.
Events Calendar
Register for Our Upcoming Events
Ultimate Guide for a Greek Golden Visa
Discover how to secure EU residency through Greece's €250,000 Golden Visa programme at our expert-led webinar. Get all the crucial details about investment options and benefits.
Upcoming webinar
Ultimate Guide for a Greek Golden Visa
Discover how to secure EU residency through Greece's €250,000 Golden Visa programme at our expert-led webinar. Get all the crucial details about investment options and benefits.
Sunday, December 2nd — Wednesday, December 2nd from 6:00pm to 6:00pm