How Filipinos Can Gain Citizenship with Greece Golden Visa Program

For those dreaming of a European lifestyle, Greece offers a more affordable way to achieve residency and even citizenship through its Greece Golden Visa program. Much like Filipino actress Bea Alonzo, who secured her Spanish residency by investing in real estate, Filipinos can now turn to Greece for a similar but more cost-effective opportunity.

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What we know about the Greece golden visa program

Greece’s Golden Visa program allows non-EU citizens to gain residency by investing in real estate, starting at just around ₱15 million. This is significantly lower than the ₱30 million investment Alonzo made in Spain. While top tourist destinations like Athens, Mykonos, and Santorini require a larger investment of ₱30.9 million, more affordable options are available in places like Patras, Greece’s third-largest city.

One of the key players in facilitating this program for Filipinos is Golden Visa Centrale (GVC), a property consultancy firm based in Taguig. GVC has been helping clients secure residency in several countries, including Spain, Portugal, and Greece, since 2019. Their latest offer involves investing in Wonderwall, a university residence in Patras. This investment capitalises on the city's large student population, offering investors 5% returns on rent annually.

Who’s eligible and what are the perks?

The Golden Visa is open to individuals over the age of 18, with no criminal record, and sufficient income. Residency in Greece is granted for five years, with the option for unlimited renewals. After seven years of continuous residence, individuals are eligible to apply for citizenship. Family reunification is another attractive feature, allowing visas for up to three generations—spouses, children, parents, and in-laws.

Perhaps one of the most attractive aspects of this program is the lack of residency requirements. Filipinos can maintain their businesses in the Philippines and don’t have to live in Greece full-time. Moreover, the process is entirely remote, and does not require the submission of an NBI clearance.

Though visa holders cannot yet apply for jobs in Greece due to local restrictions, they are free to study or start businesses in the country. Another key benefit is that world taxes are not applicable, making it a favourable option for investors.

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The application process is one of the fastest among similar programs, with approval times ranging from six to nine months. For those looking to fast-track their European residency or citizenship journey, the Greek Golden Visa could be the perfect solution.

With Greece’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and now, accessible visa programs, the country is becoming an increasingly popular choice for Filipinos looking to make a smart international investment.

Featured image credit: sorincolac via Canva Pro