UAE residents can obtain a Greek residence permit through investment while continuing to live and work in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. The Greek Golden Visa program allows investors to maintain their lifestyle in the Emirates while using their Greek residency for visa-free travel across Europe, greater family mobility, and as a long-term backup plan for future relocation.
Why Greece Attracts UAE Residents in 2026
- Visa-Free Access to Europe. For families who frequently travel to Europe for business, education, or personal reasons, the Greek Golden visa program removes the need to apply for visas each time.
- No Relocation Required. The status does not require permanent residence in Greece. Investors can continue working, running businesses, and raising children in the UAE while using the residency permit when needed.
- One Solution for the Whole Family. A spouse, children, and parents from both sides of the family can all receive residency under the same application without additional investment requirements.
- Property as an Asset. Investors gain not only residency status but also a tangible asset. In 2025, the Greek real estate market grew by 7.8%. Property can be rented out on a long-term basis to generate income in euros.
- A Reliable Plan B. Greek residency provides a legal pathway to relocate to Europe in the future if circumstances change.
Obtaining Greek Residency Through Real Estate
Investment Options
Different investment thresholds apply in 2026 depending on the location and type of property:
- €250,000 — Renovated properties, including former commercial buildings converted into residential units or heritage buildings undergoing restoration
- €400,000 — A single property of at least 120 m² in most regions of Greece
- €800,000 — Properties located in Athens, Thessaloniki, and islands with populations exceeding 3,100 residents
Main Program Requirements
Validity Period. The residence permit is issued for 5 years and can be renewed indefinitely as long as the investment property remains in the investor’s ownership.
Requirements for the Main Applicant. The investor must be over 18 years old, have no criminal record or entry restrictions, and hold valid medical insurance.
Family Inclusion. Family members can receive residency permits under the same investment without additional contributions.
Payment Terms. The investment must be made using the investor’s own funds. Mortgage financing is not permitted.
Rental Income. Properties may be rented out on a long-term basis, while short-term rentals such as Airbnb are prohibited.
What Is Renovated Real Estate?
These are former commercial properties — offices, warehouses, retail spaces, or apartment hotels — that developers acquire and fully convert into modern residential units that meet current safety and energy-efficiency standards. Investors receive completed apartments with new utilities, insulation, interior finishes, and often furnished units within reconstructed residential complexes comparable to new developments.
Why This Option Is Attractive
- Lower entry threshold starting from €250,000
- Prime urban locations, mainly in Athens and Attica
- Potential for capital appreciation amid continued demand for Greek property
- Turnkey investment solution, with the developer managing construction, permits, and commissioning
Who Can Be Included in the Application
The Greek Golden Visa program allows not only the main investor but also family members to obtain residency. Eligible dependents include:
- Spouse
- Children under 21 years old
- Parents of the investor
- Parents of the spouse
All included family members receive residency permits with the same validity period as the main applicant. No additional investment is required. The permits can be renewed provided the investment is maintained and program conditions continue to be met.
Required Documents
The standard document package includes:
- Passports of all applicants
- Photographs
- Residency application forms
- Medical insurance issued by a Greek insurance provider
- Property purchase agreement
- Notarized transaction documents
- Proof of ownership registration
- Payment receipts for government fees
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Children’s birth certificates (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship with parents (if applicable)
- Police clearance certificate
- Proof of lawful source of funds
Additional Documents for UAE Residents
- Valid UAE residence visa
- Emirates ID
- UAE police clearance certificate
- Proof of residential address in the UAE
Alternative Investment Options for Greek Residency
Greece also offers alternative investment routes besides real estate purchases:
- Long-term lease of a tourism property (minimum 10 years) — From €250,000
- Deposit in a Greek bank — €500,000
- Investment in a Greek company — €500,000
- Greek government bonds with a minimum maturity of 3 years — €500,000
- Investment fund units focused on Greek assets — €350,000
Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Greek Residency Through Real Estate
Step 1. Assessment and Strategy
Specialists evaluate whether the investor meets the program requirements and determine the most suitable route — direct application or a combined solution.
Step 2. Document Preparation
The required documents are prepared. UAE residents must provide an Emirates ID, residence visa, and UAE police clearance certificate. Additional documents from the applicant’s country of citizenship may be required if UAE residency was obtained recently. All documents must be translated and legalized.
Step 3. Property Selection
Properties are selected based on the investor’s budget and objectives. Investors may travel to Greece for viewings or choose remotely through online presentations. Once selected, the property is usually reserved with a deposit of around 10%.
Step 4. Transaction Completion
A legal due diligence process is conducted before signing the purchase agreement before a notary. The investor transfers the funds and pays all taxes and fees. Personal presence in Greece is not mandatory, as the transaction can be completed via power of attorney.
Step 5. Submission of the Application
After ownership registration is completed, the residence permit application is submitted. The investor and included family members receive a temporary permit (White Paper) valid for one year, during which they must travel to Greece.
Step 6. Biometrics and Issuance of Residence Cards
The investor and family members travel to Greece to submit fingerprints and photographs. Once approved by the migration authorities, the residence cards can be collected through an authorized representative and delivered by mail. The cards are valid for 5 years and can be renewed provided the investment is maintained.
