Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Agia Paraskevi

About Golden Visa Law in Agia Paraskevi, Greece

The Greek Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment program created to attract foreign capital and qualified investors to Greece. The most common route is real estate investment. Agia Paraskevi is a municipality in the Attica region just northeast of central Athens. Because Greek Golden Visa rules are national, the basic legal framework that applies in Athens also applies in Agia Paraskevi. However, investment thresholds and qualifying conditions can change, and some recent legislative amendments have adjusted minimum investment amounts in specific geographic zones. If you are considering applying in Agia Paraskevi, it is important to confirm current thresholds and local practical steps with a legal adviser familiar with the area.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Applying for a Golden Visa involves multiple legal, tax and administrative steps. A lawyer who specializes in immigration and real estate can help you avoid common pitfalls and speed up the process. Situations where you are likely to need legal help include:

- Verifying whether a property in Agia Paraskevi meets the qualification rules and current investment threshold.

- Performing due diligence on title deeds, encumbrances, mortgages, building permits and zoning compliance.

- Structuring the acquisition to reduce risks and address questions of co-ownership, inheritance and family inclusion in the application.

- Preparing and assembling the legal documentation required by Greek authorities, including certified translations and apostilles.

- Advising on tax residency implications, transfer taxes, annual property taxes and any potential liabilities.

- Handling interactions with the Hellenic Cadastre, the local Land Registry, notaries and the immigration authorities during application submission and renewals.

- Representing you in case of administrative questions, requests for additional documentation or appeals.

Local Laws Overview

Key legal points to know for Golden Visa candidates interested in Agia Paraskevi:

- National framework: Golden Visa rules are set at the national level. The standard approach recognizes qualifying investments that grant a residence permit to third-country nationals and their immediate family.

- Investment types: The most common qualifying investment is the direct purchase of real estate. Other routes may exist but are less frequently used. Recent legislation may alter thresholds by area or by type of investment, so verify current criteria.

- Geographic considerations: Agia Paraskevi is located in Attica. When laws apply different thresholds by geographic zone, properties in Attica may be subject to those local threshold rules.

- Residence permit rights: The Golden Visa typically provides a renewable residence permit that allows living in Greece and short-term travel within the Schengen area. It does not automatically grant the right to work; separate work permits or authorizations are usually required.

- Registration and title: Property transactions must be completed before a notary public. Title deeds are registered with the Hellenic Cadastre or the local Land Registry. Legal checks should confirm clear title, correct zoning and that the property is not encumbered in a way that would prevent the application.

- Taxes and fees: Real estate transactions trigger transfer tax, notary and registration fees, and yearly property taxes. Becoming tax resident in Greece depends on actual physical presence and other criteria, so legal and tax planning is essential.

- Family inclusion: The permit can usually extend to the investor's spouse, children under a certain age, and dependent parents, subject to documentary proof and specific rules.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the minimum investment to qualify for the Golden Visa in Agia Paraskevi?

Historically the most common threshold has been a minimum real estate investment of 250,000 euros. Recent legislative changes have introduced higher thresholds in some zones and for some types of investments. Agia Paraskevi is in the Attica region, which may be affected by zone-based rules. Confirm the up-to-date minimum with a qualified lawyer before you commit to a purchase.

Can I include my family in the Golden Visa application?

Yes. The Golden Visa commonly covers the investor, the spouse and dependent children up to a specified age, and sometimes dependent parents. You will need supporting documents such as marriage and birth certificates, translated and apostilled if required. A lawyer can confirm eligibility for each family member and prepare the documentation.

Does the Golden Visa allow me to work in Greece?

No. The Golden Visa normally provides residence rights but does not automatically confer the right to work. If you want to work in Greece, you generally need to obtain a separate work permit or residency status that expressly allows employment. A local immigration lawyer can advise on your options.

How long does the Golden Visa last and how do I renew it?

Golden Visa residence permits are typically issued for an initial period and are renewable provided the qualifying investment is maintained. Renewal requirements include proof that the investment still exists and that you meet the administrative conditions. A lawyer can manage renewals and remind you of deadlines so you avoid lapses.

Can I apply from abroad or do I need to be in Greece?

You can generally start the process from abroad. Many applicants enter Greece on a short-stay visa to complete property inspections, sign contracts and attend notary appointments. The formal residency permit application often requires submission of documents to the Greek authorities and may include an in-person biometrics appointment. An attorney can arrange and guide you through the practical steps remotely.

What documents are typically required for a Golden Visa application?

Common documents include a valid passport, proof of the qualifying investment such as notarial sale deed or purchase contract, property valuation or title documents, criminal record certificate, medical insurance that covers Greece, proof of funds for the investment, and family certificates if family members are included. Documents often require certified translation and an apostille. A lawyer will prepare a complete checklist for your case.

Are there tax consequences to buying property in Agia Paraskevi for Golden Visa purposes?

Yes. Buying property triggers purchase taxes, notary and registration fees, and annual property taxation. If you spend significant time in Greece or meet residency criteria, you could become a Greek tax resident and be liable for tax on worldwide income. Consult both an immigration lawyer and a tax advisor to plan for acquisition, ownership and potential residency tax impacts.

What due diligence should I do before buying property for the Golden Visa?

Key due diligence steps include a title search to confirm ownership and absence of encumbrances, verification of building permits and zoning compliance, confirmation of outstanding debts or liens, checking property boundaries with the Hellenic Cadastre or Land Registry, and reviewing the purchase contract terms. An experienced local lawyer will coordinate these checks and report material risks.

How long does it take to get a Golden Visa after completing the investment?

Timelines vary depending on administrative workload and completeness of documentation. Once the qualifying investment is completed and the application is properly filed, processing can range from a few weeks to several months. Delays are often caused by missing documents or requests for clarifications, which a lawyer can help prevent.

What are common reasons an application is refused?

Common reasons include failure to meet the investment threshold, irregularities in title or unresolved encumbrances on the property, incomplete or improperly translated documentation, criminal record issues, or failure to demonstrate legitimate source of funds. Working with a lawyer reduces the risk of refusal by ensuring full compliance with legal and procedural requirements.

Additional Resources

When seeking accurate and official information or assistance, consider these types of resources and institutions; contact them through official channels or ask your lawyer to do so on your behalf:

- Greek Ministry responsible for migration and residence permits - for official program rules and application procedures.

- Local Aliens and Immigration Directorate or regional migration offices in Attica - for filing and procedural questions.

- Hellenic Cadastre and local Land Registry offices - for title and mapping records for Agia Paraskevi properties.

- Municipality of Agia Paraskevi municipal offices - for local permits, planning and municipal registration requirements.

- Hellenic tax authorities - for information on transfer taxes, annual property taxes and residency tax rules.

- Notary public and licensed real estate lawyers in Attica - for closing and deed registration.

- Professional translators and certified document legalizers - for translations and apostilles required by Greek authorities.

Next Steps

If you are considering a Golden Visa in Agia Paraskevi, follow these practical next steps:

- Gather preliminary documents: passports, proof of funds, and basic property information for any properties you are considering.

- Arrange an initial consultation with an immigration lawyer who has experience with Golden Visa applications and real estate transactions in Attica or Agia Paraskevi. During this consultation ask about recent legal changes, fees, estimated timelines and the lawyer s approach to due diligence.

- Perform property due diligence before signing any contract. Have your lawyer review the sale contract, title, outstanding charges and building permits. Confirm whether the property falls within any special zones affecting the investment threshold.

- Plan for tax and residency implications by consulting a tax advisor. Make sure you understand transfer taxes, annual costs and the impact of physical presence in Greece on tax residency.

- Prepare and legalize the required documentation with certified translations and apostilles where necessary. Submit a complete application to the competent Greek authority, and be prepared for a biometrics appointment and a request for additional documentation.

- Maintain records of the investment and be proactive about renewals. Golden Visa permits are renewable provided the qualifying investment remains valid. Your lawyer should calendar renewal deadlines and any reporting obligations.

Remember that legislation and administrative practice can change. This guide provides an overview and practical starting points but does not replace personalized legal advice. Contact a qualified local immigration and real estate lawyer in Attica to receive guidance tailored to your circumstances.