Best Citizenship by Investment Lawyers in Glyfada

About Citizenship by Investment Law in Glyfada, Greece

Citizenship by Investment (CBI) is a pathway for foreign nationals to obtain citizenship or residency in a country by making a significant financial investment. In Greece, and by extension Glyfada, the current legal framework does not provide direct citizenship in exchange for investment. Instead, Greece offers a well-known residency through investment program, commonly referred to as the Golden Visa program. This program allows non-European Union citizens to acquire a five-year residency permit by investing in real estate or other qualifying assets. While residency can eventually lead to citizenship, it is a longer process with specific legal requirements. It’s important for interested individuals in Glyfada to understand the distinction and legal framework regarding investment-based immigration options.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Pursuing residency or citizenship via investment in Glyfada involves complex legal and administrative procedures. Here are some common situations where legal assistance is crucial:

• Understanding the precise eligibility criteria and required documentation for the Greek Golden Visa program
• Conducting due diligence on potential real estate investments to ensure compliance with local property laws
• Assisting with application preparation, submission, and communication with Greek authorities
• Navigating language barriers and interpreting legal documents in Greek
• Ensuring ongoing compliance with residency requirements to maintain status
• Guiding long-term planning for naturalization and eventual citizenship, including timelines and legal tests
• Resolving unexpected legal challenges, such as property disputes or denial of your application

Local Laws Overview

Glyfada, located in the greater Athens area, is subject to national Greek laws regarding residency and citizenship. Relevant points include:

• The Greek Golden Visa grants five-year residency to non-EU nationals who invest a minimum of 250,000 euros in real estate property
• Golden Visa holders can reside in Greece and travel freely within the Schengen Zone
• Residency permits granted through investment do not immediately confer citizenship - they provide a legal pathway to naturalization, which requires several years of continuous residence (usually seven years), knowledge of Greek language and culture, and evidence of integration
• Legal transactions for property must comply with Greek real estate and taxation regulations, which can be intricate and require local expertise
• The application process involves checks on the legality of funds, property titles, and compliance with anti-money laundering statutes

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Greek Golden Visa?

It is a residency by investment program allowing non-EU nationals to obtain a five-year residence permit in Greece by investing in real estate or other eligible assets. It is the main route for investors interested in living in Glyfada.

Can I get Greek citizenship immediately through investment?

No, Greece does not grant immediate citizenship through investment. An investor must first obtain residency, then meet long-term residency and integration requirements to qualify for naturalization.

How much do I need to invest in Glyfada to qualify?

The minimum investment threshold is 250,000 euros in real estate to qualify for the Golden Visa. This can be a single property or multiple properties that together meet the minimum.

Can my family members apply as dependents?

Yes, your spouse, children under 21, and dependent parents of both spouses are eligible to apply under the same investment and receive residency permits.

Do I have to live in Glyfada full-time to maintain my residency?

No, there is no requirement to reside full-time in Greece. You only need to maintain ownership of the investment property and renew your permit as required.

Will my residency allow me to work in Greece?

The Golden Visa allows residency and travel but does not grant automatic permission to work as an employee in Greece. Separate work permits may be required for employment.

How long does the application process take?

Typically, the process from investment to receiving your residence permit can take three to six months, depending on document preparation and property transaction timelines.

Can I rent out my property in Glyfada?

Yes, investors are generally permitted to rent out their property while maintaining eligibility for the residency permit.

What are the naturalization requirements for citizenship?

Naturalization usually requires at least seven years of continuous legal residence, proof of integration, knowledge of Greek language and history, and clean criminal record.

Should I use a lawyer for the Golden Visa process?

Yes, legal support is strongly recommended to ensure all aspects of property acquisition, documentation, and compliance with Greek law are correctly handled.

Additional Resources

Consider consulting the following for more information or assistance:

• Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum - provides official guidelines and application forms for residency by investment programs
• Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs - details on visas, consular support, and residency options
• Local bar associations in Glyfada or Athens for lists of qualified immigration law specialists
• Certified real estate agencies experienced with foreign buyers

Next Steps

If you are considering the Greek Golden Visa or have questions about citizenship by investment opportunities in Glyfada, follow these steps:

• Assess your eligibility and clarify your goals with preliminary research or consultation
• Contact a qualified immigration or property lawyer with experience in Glyfada to discuss your specific circumstances
• Gather required documents, including proof of funds and identification
• Work with professionals to identify and acquire suitable investment property
• Complete and submit your residency application with legal oversight to avoid costly errors or delays
• Plan for long-term compliance with renewal, taxation, and residency requirements if you aim for eventual citizenship

Legal guidance is invaluable through each phase of the process to protect your investment and ensure your application meets all requirements under Greek law.