The Greek government is eyeing changes in the "Golden Visa" scheme that grants non-EU third country nationals long-term residency permits in the country for property purchases exceeding 250,000 euros, with a coming draft law expanding the forms of investments required for eligibility.
In confirming a recent "N" report, the finance ministry draft bill will allow the purchase of shares or bonds, via participation in a share capital increase or bond issue loan, to count towards the visa requirement. The provision mandates an investment in companies based in Greece and listed on the Athens Stock Exchange.
A further expansion of the regime allow the investment of capital in a real estate holdings company exclusively active in Greece. Finally, would-be visa holders will also become eligible with the purchase of shares or stakes in Greece-based investment funds.
