Updated August 2026 to reflect Golden Visa tiers under Law 5100/2024. Earlier versions of this article cited a single €250,000 threshold, which no longer applies to standard residential purchases.

Greece, with its breathtaking landscapes, rich history and sunny climate, is an alluring destination for property buyers. For those dreaming of owning a piece of this Mediterranean paradise, BUY GREECE LLC, the US real estate company with offices in Chicago and Glyfada, Athens, specialises in verified properties across Greece for international buyers. Here is what you need to know about buying property in Greece as a foreigner in 2026.

Can foreigners buy property in Greece?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Greece. The process differs slightly by nationality:

1. EU citizens: unrestricted access to residential, commercial or agricultural property anywhere in Greece.
2. Non-EU citizens (including Americans, Canadians, Australians and British buyers): generally allowed to buy freely. Certain designated border areas (parts of the north-eastern mainland and some islands near the Turkish coast) require an additional permit. None of the markets BUY GREECE covers on the Athens Riviera, in the Peloponnese, on Crete or in the Cyclades sit in a restricted zone.

Golden Visa 2026: the current tiers

A qualifying purchase must be a single property of at least 120 m² (except for the €250,000 route), cannot be used for short-term rental, and grants a renewable 5-year residence permit with no minimum stay, covering spouse, children under 21 and dependent parents. Full detail in the BUY GREECE Golden Visa guide.

Why invest in Greece?

1. Golden Visa opportunity: qualifying real estate investment gives non-EU citizens EU residency and visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone, including family members.
2. Value across the price spectrum: BUY GREECE tracks Kalamata at €1,400–€3,200/m² and Vouliagmeni at €8,000–€18,000/m², so there is a market for nearly every budget.
3. Rental yields: BUY GREECE tracks 5.1%–5.8% gross on the Athens Riviera and up to 6.8% in island markets (indicative, before tax and management).
4. Lifestyle: pristine beaches, world-class cuisine and a vibrant culture.

How to buy property in Greece as a foreigner

1. Partner with representation on your side. Greece has no MLS; the listing agent works for the seller. BUY GREECE provides buyer-side sourcing, due diligence and closing coordination.
2. Obtain a Greek tax number (AFM). Required for every transaction; typically one to three weeks via a Greek lawyer with power of attorney.
3. Open a Greek bank account to route the purchase funds, transfer tax and fees.
4. Due diligence. Title and liens at the Hellenic Cadastre, permits, tax clearance, energy certificate, technical survey.
5. Sign the contract before a notary, in person or by power of attorney. Transfer tax is 3%; notary 1%–1.5%; legal fees €2,500–€6,000.
6. Register the property at the Hellenic Cadastre.

Frequently asked questions

Can Americans buy property in Greece?

Yes, on the same terms as other non-EU citizens, with no residency requirement. The full process is in the BUY GREECE legal guide for US buyers.

Do I need to live in Greece to own property there?

No. Ownership carries no residency obligation, and the Golden Visa itself has no minimum stay.

Can I buy remotely without flying to Greece?

Yes. A power of attorney signed at your nearest Greek consulate lets your lawyer complete the AFM, bank account, contract and notarial closing. BUY GREECE runs this routinely for clients from Chicago and Glyfada.

Is the Golden Visa still €250,000?

Only for listed-building restorations and commercial-to-residential conversions. Standard residential purchases require €400,000 in most of Greece and €800,000 in Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini and the larger islands under Law 5100/2024.

Why choose BUY GREECE

BUY GREECE LLC is the only real estate company with active offices and expert teams in both the United States and Greece. Whether you seek a holiday home, an investment property or a permanent residence, our team provides buyer-side representation, verified listings from 13+ developer partners, and end-to-end support through closing. Contact BUY GREECE to start.

About this guide

Published by BUY GREECE LLC, the US real estate company with offices in Chicago, Illinois and Glyfada, Athens. Reviewed by Kirill Samarits, Founder & CEO. For current Greek market data see the BUY GREECE Greek Property Monitor, published quarterly and free to reuse under CC BY 4.0 (cite as "BUY GREECE Greek Property Monitor, Q3 2026 — https://www.buygreece.us/greek-property-monitor"). Nothing on this page is legal, tax or investment advice; confirm current rules before committing capital. Corrections and press enquiries: contact BUY GREECE, answered by a person within 24 hours.