Best Residence by Investment Lawyers in Chalcis

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.


Founded in 2004
4 people in their team
English
Kalavris Law Firm, based in Chalkida on the island of Evia, Greece, provides sophisticated counsel in civil and criminal matters, employment and immigration law, and related regulatory issues. The practice leverages a long track record of handling complex disputes, transactional matters, and...
AS SEEN ON

1. About Residence by Investment Law in Chalcis, Greece

Residence by Investment, commonly known as the Golden Visa program, offers a pathway for non-EU nationals to obtain a Greek residence permit through qualifying investments. In practice, property purchases in Greece have been the standard route, with a minimum investment threshold designed to encourage real estate activity in regions such as Chalcis (Chalkida) and the wider Central Greece area. The resulting residence permit is typically valid for an initial period and renewable, providing the investor and eligible family members with legal residency in Greece and access to the Schengen Area under stated conditions.

Chalcis sits on the island of Evia in Central Greece and has become a focal point for investors seeking diverse property opportunities, favorable transport links, and a more affordable entry point than some parts of the Athens metropolitan area. While the Golden Visa program is national in scope, local market dynamics in Chalkida influence the investment decision, timing, and due diligence required to secure eligibility. Real estate paths often involve title searches, property clearance, and coordination with local authorities for permits and registrations.

The program is administered through Greek authorities responsible for immigration and residence matters, with the Hellenic Police and relevant government portals guiding the filing, documentation, and renewal processes. Applicants should expect a multi-step process that includes due diligence on property, submission of documents to the Aliens and Immigration Office, and periodic renewal to maintain status. A qualified legal counsel can align a Chalkida property purchase or other investment with current regulatory requirements and procedural timelines.

The Golden Visa program offers a five-year residence permit to third-country nationals who invest in Greece, with renewal options and family inclusion as applicable.

Source: Migration Policy Portal, Greece - Golden Visa overview

For residents of Chalcis and Evia, local procedural nuances may arise, such as coordination with regional tax offices,Notary attestations in Chalkida, and real estate due diligence tailored to provincial markets. A knowledgeable attorney can help navigate these steps, select the optimal investment route, and ensure ongoing compliance with Greek immigration and tax rules.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

  • Due diligence on Chalkida real estate - You plan to buy property in Chalkida to trigger the Golden Visa. A lawyer can verify title status, check for liens or encumbrances, and confirm that the deed complies with local zoning and building regulations before purchase.
  • Choosing the right investment route - You are evaluating real estate versus other eligible investments (for example, capital transfer or business investment) and need guidance on which path yields the fastest, most reliable residency outcome in Chalcis.
  • Document compilation and filing - The application package requires comprehensive documents (passport, birth certificates, police certificates, mortgage or title documents, etc.). An attorney can assemble, translate, apostille, and timely submit these materials to the Aliens and Immigration Office in Chalkida or Athens.
  • Responding to requests for additional information - Authorities may request supplementary documents or explanations; a lawyer can prepare targeted responses to avoid delays or refusals.
  • Family reunification and dependents - If your spouse and children intend to join you, you need precise eligibility criteria and steps to include dependents in the permit, including residency conditions for minors and students in Chalkida schools.
  • Renewals, permanent residence, and naturalization planning - A lawyer can map renewal timelines, advise on steps toward longer-term residence options, and outline how residency might interact with eventual permanent status or citizenship opportunities.

3. Local Laws Overview

Two primary Greek statutes shape Residence by Investment activities, including in Chalcis and the wider Evia region:

  • Law 3386/2005 - Entry, Residence and Social Integration of Third-Country Nationals. This foundational framework established the rights and procedures for non-EU nationals to enter and reside in Greece, including the basis for subsequent amendments that govern investment-based residence.
  • Law 4251/2014 - Immigration and Social Integration of Third-Country Nationals. This statute has been a central reference point for modernizing Greece’s immigration regime and integrates changes related to investment-based residence programs, family reunification, and renewal processes. The law has been amended over time to align with evolving EU and national policies.

Recent changes have focused on clarifying eligibility criteria, documenting requirements, and streamlining renewal and family provisions. While Chalkida-specific procedures follow national directives, local offices in Central Greece may require additional local registrations or translations as part of the file. For the exact text and amendments, consult official legislative resources.

Practical note: always verify the latest implementing circulars and ministerial decisions that interpret these laws, as administrative practice evolves with policy shifts. Official sources provide the current rules and step-by-step filing guidance for Golden Visa applicants.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Golden Visa program in Greece and how does it apply to Chalcis?

The Golden Visa grants a residence permit to non-EU nationals who meet investment criteria in Greece, including Chalkida real estate. The permit is typically five years and renewable, with eligible family members included where applicable.

What investment options qualify for a Greek residence permit in Chalcis?

The most common path is real estate ownership with a minimum investment of 250,000 euros. Other eligible routes include certain capital transfers or business investments defined by law and ministerial decisions.

Do I need to live in Greece to maintain the residence permit?

Residence permits for investment do not require permanent residence in Greece, but ongoing requirements and periodic renewals must be met. Absences beyond permitted periods can affect status and renewal eligibility.

How long does the application process take for Chalkida applicants?

Processing times vary and depend on document readiness, local office workloads, and the completeness of the file. A typical timeline ranges from several months to half a year, assuming all documents are in order.

Do I need a local lawyer to apply from Chalcis?

While not mandatory, a local attorney familiar with Chalkida real estate practices and Greek immigration can significantly reduce delays, ensure compliance, and handle translations and notarizations efficiently.

What documents are typically required for Chalkida Golden Visa applications?

Common items include a valid passport, birth certificate, police certificates, proof of property purchase or investment, title deeds, tax identification, and translations. Specific documents vary by case and must be apostilled or legalized where required.

Can my family members join me under the same permit in Chalkis?

Yes, spouses and eligible dependents can be included in the permit, subject to meeting requirements for each family member and providing requested documentation.

What is the role of the local Chalkida authorities in the process?

The local Aliens and Immigration Office coordinates the file submission, requests further information, and handles renewals in cooperation with prefecture or regional authorities for the Evia region.

How much does a Chalkida residence by investment legal process typically cost?

Costs include legal fees, translation and apostille expenses, notary fees, and government processing charges. A lawyer can provide a detailed, case-specific budget after reviewing your file.

Is the Chalkis Golden Visa path a route to permanent residency or citizenship?

Continued residency and compliance may lead to longer-term status, and in some cases permanent residency or naturalization may be possible after additional years of lawful residence and language or integration requirements.

Do I need to pay Greek taxes if I obtain the Golden Visa?

Residence status influences tax residency, which can depend on physical presence and other factors. A tax advisor can determine Greek tax residency implications for you and your family.

How do I renew a Chalkida Golden Visa when the five-year term ends?

Renewal requires updated documentation showing continued eligibility, funding or investment maintenance, and compliance with immigration requirements. A lawyer can prepare the renewal package and coordinate with authorities to avoid gaps.

5. Additional Resources

  • Gov.gr - Official Greek government portal providing public services and information about immigration and residency procedures (including investment-based residence). https://www.gov.gr/en
  • Migration Policy Portal Greece - Dedicated guidance on migration and residence permits, including Golden Visa requirements and steps. https://migration.gov.gr/en/
  • Greek Legislation Portal - Access to official texts of laws such as Law 3386/2005 and Law 4251/2014 and their amendments. https://www.legislation.gov.gr/en/

6. Next Steps

  1. Define your Chalkida investment strategy: real estate vs other eligible investments, and determine your target budget with a local real estate professional.
  2. Engage a Chalkis-area attorney or legal counsel who specializes in immigration and property transactions to assess eligibility and draft a case plan.
  3. Collect and organize documents in advance: passports, birth certificates, police certificates, property deeds, and translations with apostilles if required.
  4. Initiate property due diligence and title checks through your attorney, including encumbrances and permits for Chalkida properties.
  5. Prepare and submit the initial residency application package to the Aliens and Immigration Office, with your counsel handling translations and notarizations.
  6. Track the application timeline and respond promptly to any official requests for supplementary information.
  7. Plan for renewals and long-term residency goals by coordinating with your attorney on documentation, tax considerations, and compliance steps.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Chalcis through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Residence by Investment, experience, and client feedback.

Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters.

Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Chalcis, Greece — quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:

The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation.

We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.