Best Golden Visa Lawyers in Naxos

1. About Golden Visa Law in Naxos, Greece

The Greek Golden Visa program offers a residency permit to non-EU nationals who invest in Greece, with real estate purchases being the most common qualifying option. In practice, investing at least €250,000 in property in Greece can authorize a five-year residence permit for the investor and eligible family members. Naxos residents and potential buyers frequently pursue this route to establish long-term ties to the island while maintaining freedom of movement within the Schengen Area.

Key features include the ability to include a spouse and dependent children in the permit, and the option to renew the residence permit so long as the investment remains in place. This is a residency program, not a direct route to citizenship; naturalization in Greece follows general naturalization rules after years of legal residence. The program is administered at the national level by the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, with local processing handled by Greek immigration authorities and consulates when applicable.

For people in Naxos, the practical steps typically involve selecting a qualifying property, completing the purchase, and coordinating with a Greek immigration attorney to assemble the residency package. While the investment threshold is set at €250,000, due diligence on each property, title checks, and tax considerations are essential before filing. Local advisors in Naxos can help streamline the process through county-level offices and notaries familiar with real estate transactions on the island.

Recent developments emphasize keeping the investment active and maintaining compliant status with Greek immigration authorities. Applicants should plan for document translation, apostilles, and timely submission to avoid delays. For the most up-to-date requirements, always consult official government resources and licensed counsel in Greece.

Source: Greek government resources on investor residence and Golden Visa basics. See official pages for the latest eligibility criteria and timelines. gov.gr, migration.gov.gr

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

Hiring a lawyer who specializes in Golden Visa matters can save time and prevent costly mistakes in Naxos. A licensed attorney helps navigate Greek immigration rules, property law, and tax considerations unique to the island. Below are concrete scenarios where expert legal assistance is essential.

• Aproperty purchase in Naxos requires clear title and encumbrance checks. An attorney conducts due diligence, orders a title search, coordinates with a notary, and ensures the sale complies with real estate regulations for Golden Visa eligibility.
• You plan to include a spouse and dependent children on the Golden Visa. A lawyer confirms which family members qualify, assembles required documentation, and handles the submission to immigration authorities.
• Your real estate investment is structured through a company or trust. A legal counsel clarifies ownership structures, tax implications, and whether the investment still qualifies for the Golden Visa under Greek rules.
• You have prior visa issues or criminal records. An immigration attorney helps assess admissibility, prepare explanatory letters, and gather police clearance documents to minimize processing delays.
• You need to open bank accounts, obtain a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM), or obtain a Greek social security number (AMKA) for property and tax purposes. A solicitor coordinates with banks and tax authorities to ensure compliant eligibility documentation.
• You plan a multi-property purchase in Naxos or multiple islands. An attorney evaluates whether the aggregate investment meets the €250,000 threshold and manages cross-property documentation to avoid gaps in eligibility.

3. Local Laws Overview

The Golden Visa framework in Greece is national in scope and administered through central immigration and tax authorities. Localities like Naxos implement these rules via regional alien and immigration offices and the island’s notary network. The following instrument names summarize the principal legal framework and implementing rules most relevant to Golden Visa applicants on Naxos.

Law 4251/2014 - Immigration and Social Integration: The foundational statute governing residence permits for non‑EU residents, including investors seeking Golden Visa status. It establishes eligibility criteria, permit durations, and family inclusion provisions. The law has undergone amendments and is implemented through additional ministerial decisions. Effective from 2015 onward, it remains the core reference for investor residency.

Presidential Decree and Implementing Regulations (various titles) - Implementing provisions: These decrees and implementing regulations translate Law 4251/2014 into concrete procedures for visa issuance, application forms, and processing timelines. They set out how local Aliens Directors handle applications for investors and family members on the island and nationwide.

Joint Ministerial Decisions (JMDs) - Implementing criteria for Golden Visa eligibility: JMDs issued by the Ministry of Migration and Asylum provide the operational specifics, including documentation, minimum investment verification, and applicant scope. These implementing rules are periodically updated to reflect changes in real estate markets and immigration policy. For the latest details, consult the official gazette and government portals.

The current threshold for the real estate route remains at €250,000 as the minimum qualifying investment for a five-year residence permit, with possible extensions if the property remains in ownership. Residency status generally covers the investor, spouse, and dependent children, subject to ongoing compliance with Greek immigration rules. Always verify the exact statutory text and applicable ministerial decisions on official sites before filing.

Source: Official English language resources outline the core statute and its implementing regulations. See migration.gov.gr and gov.gr for current texts and updates.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Golden Visa and who can apply in Greece?

The Golden Visa is a residency program for non‑EU nationals who invest in Greece, commonly through real estate. Applicants must meet the minimum investment threshold and provide standard identity and background documents. Spouses and dependent children can often be included in the application.

What is the minimum real estate investment for the Greek program?

The current minimum investment is €250,000 in real estate located in Greece. The investment amount must be verified by appropriate title documents and receipts during the application process.

How long does the initial residence permit take to issue?

Processing typically takes several months, often 6 to 12 months, depending on complete documentation and backlogs at the competent immigration authorities. A lawyer can help align documents to avoid delays.

Do I need to live in Greece to keep the Golden Visa?

Residence permits do not require that you stay in Greece every day, but they do require ongoing compliance and maintenance of the investment. Long-term residency status is renewed by proving the investment is maintained.

Can I include my spouse and children on the Golden Visa?

Yes. Spouses and dependent children are typically eligible to be included in the applicant’s residency package, subject to proof of relation and dependent status. A lawyer can confirm exact criteria for your family composition.

What documents are usually needed for the application?

Common requirements include a valid passport, birth certificates, police clearance certificates, proof of funds, property documents, marriage certificates, and translations authenticated for Greece. A local attorney helps assemble and certify documents for submission.

Is citizenship available through Golden Visa in Greece?

No, the Golden Visa does not grant automatic citizenship. Citizenship in Greece follows standard naturalization rules, which typically require long-term lawful residence and language proficiency, among other criteria.

What costs should I expect beyond the real estate purchase?

Additional costs include notary fees, legal fees, translation and apostille costs, property transfer taxes, and annual property taxes. A lawyer can provide a detailed budget estimate based on your plan.

Can I buy property in Naxos if I already live outside Greece?

Yes, foreign buyers can purchase property in Naxos and pursue the Golden Visa from abroad. You may file the residency application through a Greek consulate or after entering Greece, with local counsel coordinating the filing.

What is the role of a lawyer in the Golden Visa process?

A lawyer handles due diligence, prepares residency packets, liaises with immigration authorities, and coordinates documentation for family members. They also advise on property title issues, tax implications, and long-term compliance.

How long can I stay in Greece while applying for or renewing the permit?

There is no strict daily stay requirement for the permit, but maintaining the investment and meeting documentation deadlines is essential. A lawyer helps manage timelines so renewals are filed promptly.

What happens if I sell the property or fail to maintain the investment?

Selling the property or failing to maintain the investment can jeopardize the residency status. You should consult counsel before making such moves to understand potential consequences and alternatives.

5. Additional Resources

The following official resources provide authoritative information on Golden Visa procedures, eligibility, and related requirements:

• gov.gr - Official Greek government portal with immigration and residency permit information. https://www.gov.gr
• Migration and Asylum Ministry - Central authority issuing guidance on investor residence and related matters. https://migration.gov.gr/
• Hellenic Parliament - Legislative texts and official law databases for immigration related statutes. https://www.hellenicparliament.gr/en/

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your goals and budget for Naxos real estate investment and family eligibility. Document your timeline and preferred travel plans.
2. Consult a licensed Greek immigration attorney with experience in Golden Visa applications, especially for island property purchases in the Cyclades.
3. Gather required documents early, including passports, birth certificates, police clearances, and property due diligence records. Prepare translations and apostilles as needed.
4. Identify suitable properties in Naxos and perform a title due diligence check with a local lawyer and a sworn Greek translator if necessary.
5. Engage a Greek notary and tax advisor to handle property transfer, AFM registration, and tax implications before filing the residency application.
6. Submit the Golden Visa application through the appropriate immigration channel, ensuring all family members’ documents are included. Track processing times with your attorney.
7. Plan for renewal well before expiration by maintaining the investment in good standing and meeting reporting requirements set by Greek authorities.