Greece Introduces Startup Investment Route to the Golden Visa Program

Greece has expanded its Golden Visa framework by introducing a new investment route focused on startups, marking a strategic shift from property-driven residency toward innovation and productive investment.

Under the new scheme, non-EU investors may qualify for a Greek residence permit by investing €250,000 in an eligible Greek startup, instead of purchasing real estate. The initiative aims to attract long-term capital into Greece’s growing startup ecosystem while supporting job creation and sustainable economic growth.

Key Highlights of the New Startup Golden Visa Route

• Minimum investment amount set at €250,000, aligned with the traditional real estate threshold

• Investment must be made in a startup registered in the national startup registry (Elevate Greece)

• The investor’s participation is capped, ensuring that the startup remains operationally independent

• Startups are required to create and maintain new jobs, linking residency to real economic contribution

• The residence permit is issued for five years, with renewal options subject to continued compliance

Why This Matters for International Investors

This development signals a clear policy direction: Greece is prioritising active investment, entrepreneurship and innovation, rather than passive capital inflows.

For international investors, the startup route offers:

• Exposure to the Greek and EU innovation ecosystem

• A residency option linked to business growth rather than asset ownership

• Access to the Schengen area through a compliant EU framework

Strategic Implications for Greece

The new route complements Greece’s broader efforts to position itself as:

• A hub for startups and scale-ups

• A destination for international founders and investors

• A market focused on job creation and long-term value

By connecting residency with productive investment, Greece strengthens the quality and sustainability of foreign capital entering the country.

Market Outlook

The Startup Golden Visa is expected to appeal to:

• Founders seeking EU residency through business activity

• Investors interested in early-stage innovation

• International entrepreneurs exploring Greece as a long-term base

As implementation unfolds, due diligence, compliance and local advisory support will remain critical to navigating the framework effectively.

Sources:

• GreekReporter – Greece Expands Golden Visa With Startup Investment Route
  https://greekreporter.com/2026/01/20/greece-golden-visa-startup-investment/

• Elevate Greece – National Startup Registry
  https://elevategreece.gov.gr/

• Enterprise Greece – Investment Frameworks & Incentives
  https://www.enterprisegreece.gov.gr/en/invest-in-greece