Best Citizenship by Investment Lawyers in Kos

1. About Citizenship by Investment Law in Kos, Greece

Kos is part of the Hellenic Republic, so Greek nationality laws apply across the island and its municipalities. There is no separate Citizenship by Investment program exclusive to Kos or any other island. The Greek government does not award citizenship solely for an investment; access to citizenship follows Greece's general naturalization framework.

For foreign investors seeking a form of status before citizenship, Greece offers a residency pathway linked to investment, commonly referred to as the Golden Visa. This program grants a residence permit to non‑EU nationals who meet defined investment requirements, but it does not automatically confer citizenship. The long‑term route to Greek citizenship remains naturalization after meeting residence and integration criteria.

In practice, Kos residents often pursue residency options first and then consider naturalization years later. Local authorities in Kos follow the same national rules as the rest of Greece, with procedural steps managed through national ministries and migration services. If your objective is citizenship, the practical path starts with a careful residency plan followed by a naturalization process subject to Greek law.

Greece offers a residence permit through investment (Golden Visa) rather than direct citizenship by investment. Source: migration.gov.gr

The Invest in Greece Agency provides official information on investment options that may qualify for residency and related procedures. Source: enterprisegreece.gov.gr

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Scenario: You plan to purchase property on Kos to qualify for a Golden Visa and want to avoid title defects. An immigration lawyer can coordinate with notaries and the land registry to verify clear title and resolve encumbrances before the transaction closes. This reduces the risk of investment delays or future disputes.

Scenario: You are a non‑EU family member seeking to join a Kos investor's household. A lawyer can structure family member applications, gather required documents, and align them with current Greek immigration rules to maximize the chance of approval.

Scenario: Your Golden Visa application is delayed or initially denied due to documentation gaps. A lawyer can identify missing items, prepare tailored submissions, and appeal decisions when appropriate, avoiding repeated ad hoc submissions.

Scenario: You wish to diversify investment options beyond real estate, such as capital contributions or approved business investments. A lawyer can assess eligibility, prepare investment explanations, and navigate the relevant regulatory pathways without compromising timelines.

Scenario: You are already residing in Kos and face changes in property ownership or investment status. A lawyer can advise on maintaining eligibility for the residence permit, including ongoing investment requirements and renewal criteria.

Scenario: You need guidance on cross‑border tax implications, funding sources, and source of funds documentation. A lawyer can coordinate with tax professionals to ensure compliance with Greek and EU anti‑money laundering standards.

3. Local Laws Overview

• Constitution of Greece, Article 4 (Citizenship by birth) and related naturalization provisions - The Constitution sets the framework for how citizenship is acquired, including naturalization as a discretionary process governed by statute and ministerial decisions. This is the ultimate authority for Greek nationality law and applies to all residents of Kos.

The Constitution provides the basis for how residency can lead to eventual citizenship, alongside ministerial regulations that govern naturalization procedures. For an investor seeking citizenship, this pathway begins with lawful residency and compliance with language and integration requirements.

• Law 3386/2005 - Entry, Residence and Social Integration of Third‑Country Nationals in Greece (Aliens Law) - This is the principal framework governing visas, residence permits, and integration for non‑EU nationals. It has been amended multiple times to reflect policy changes, including those affecting Golden Visa eligibility and renewal requirements.

The Aliens Law lays out who can obtain temporary and permanent residence, the categories of investment that may qualify for residency, and the obligations of the applicant. It is the anchor statute for most Golden Visa applicants on Kos and elsewhere in Greece.

• Migration Regulatory Framework and Investment‑Related Residency Provisions - Greece administers investment‑driven residence through ministerial decisions and implementing regulations linked to Law 3386/2005. These rules cover acceptable investment categories, processing timelines, and renewal conditions.

Because investment options and thresholds may change, investors should monitor official sources for the latest regulations and ensure that their plan remains compliant while pursuing residency on Kos.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between citizenship and residency in Greece?

Citizenship is a grant of national status with voting rights and passport eligibility, usually after long residence and naturalization. Residency is a temporary or permanent permission to live in Greece tied to an investment or other qualifying grounds, without automatic citizenship.

How do I obtain residency by investment in Greece from Kos?

Apply for a residence permit under the Golden Visa program by meeting an approved investment threshold, such as real estate purchase or other qualifying investments. Submit documents to the Greek migration authorities and obtain initial permission, followed by renewals as required.

When can I apply for Greek citizenship after residency on Kos?

Naturalization generally requires several years of lawful and continuous residence, language proficiency, and integration criteria. The process is discretionary and handled by Greek authorities, not guaranteed by investment alone.

Where can I find the official rules for Golden Visa eligibility in Greece?

Consult the Greek Migration Service and government portals for the latest guidelines on eligible investments, processing times, and renewal requirements. Official sources include migration.gov.gr and gov.gr.

Who can be included in a Golden Visa application from Kos?

Typically, the investor can include immediate family members, such as a spouse and dependent children, subject to program rules. Other dependents may require additional documentation and approvals.

Do I need to live in Greece to maintain a Golden Visa?

No specific residency residence requirement is normally imposed for short stays, but the investment must be maintained for the permit to remain valid. Absence may affect renewal if the investment is sold or compromised.

How much does it cost to start a Golden Visa process from Kos?

Costs include the investment amount, notary and legal fees, administrative fees, and renewal charges. The total can vary widely depending on the chosen investment category and legal representation.

What documents are typically required for residency by investment?

Common documents include a valid passport, proof of investment, police clearance certificates, health insurance, and financial documentation showing funds sources. Additional documents may be requested by Greek authorities.

Is there a difference between buying real estate on Kos and elsewhere in Greece for the Golden Visa?

Real estate purchases are a common route for Golden Visa eligibility, but the program may also permit other eligible investments. Jurisdiction within Greece does not change the core requirements, though local property due diligence on Kos remains essential.

What should I know about language and integration for citizenship?

Greek language proficiency is typically required for naturalization, with evidence of practical communication ability. Integration steps may include knowledge of Greek society, culture, and civic life as part of the naturalization process.

Can I use a Kos-based attorney to manage the entire process?

Yes. An experienced Kos‑based immigration attorney can coordinate with notaries, tax advisors, and migration authorities to streamline the process, confirm document accuracy, and address local procedures.

What if my residency application is denied or delayed in Kos?

You can request a review or appeal through the appropriate Greek administrative channels. A lawyer can help identify the grounds for denial, gather new evidence, and present a robust appeal.

5. Additional Resources

• Migration.gov.gr - Official Greek government portal with guidance on residence permits for investors and Golden Visa specifics. https://migration.gov.gr/en
• Gov.gr - Central gateway to current Greek laws, regulations, and administrative procedures, including immigration and residency information. https://www.gov.gr
• Invest in Greece Agency - Official information on investment options, incentives, and processes for foreign investors in Greece. https://www.enterprisegreece.gov.gr

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your objective: residency by investment versus eventual citizenship, and identify which Kos investment options align with your goals.
2. Consult a Kos‑based immigration attorney for an initial assessment and fee quote within 1-2 weeks of contact.
3. Gather essential documents: passport, birth certificates, police clearances, and proof of investment funds; request official translations as needed.
4. Request a written plan from your attorney outlining the application timeline, required steps, and anticipated costs; review within 1-2 weeks.
5. Begin due diligence on the Kos property market or alternative investment routes with your lawyer and a licensed real estate professional if purchasing real estate.
6. Submit the Golden Visa application through Greek migration authorities with your lawyer’s supervision; monitor progress and respond to any requests promptly.
7. Plan for renewal and eventual citizenship steps by continuing residency, language learning, and civic integration as advised by your counsel.