Commercial-to-Residential Conversion
The Greece Commercial-to-Residential Conversion Programme offers the most affordable entry point into European residency at just EUR 250,000. This option allows investors to purchase commercial properties that have been converted into residential use, or to restore listed heritage buildings, regardless of location or size across Greece — including Athens and Thessaloniki.
Requirements
The Commercial-to-Residential Conversion programme allows investors to obtain a Greek Golden Visa through a minimum real estate investment of EUR 250,000. This option is available regardless of location or property size, provided the investment is allocated towards the conversion of commercial properties into residential use or the restoration of listed buildings.
Important: The conversion of the property from commercial to residential use must be completed before submitting the Golden Visa application. The conversion is certified through a standardised Engineer’s Technical Report referencing the relevant building permit or construction approval.
Additional transaction costs:
1) Transfer tax: 3.09% of the property value
2) Notary fees: 1.5–2% + VAT of the property value
3) Land registry fees: 0.5–0.7% of the property value
Key requirements:
1) Minimum investment of EUR 250,000 in a qualifying commercial-to-residential conversion project
2) The applicant must be a non-EU/EEA national aged 18 or over
3) A clean criminal record (apostilled police certificates from home country and any country of residence)
4) Private health insurance with comprehensive coverage valid in Greece
5) The investment must be maintained for the duration of the residence permit
6) The property may be rented out on a long-term basis but short-term lettings (e.g. Airbnb) are prohibited
Process and Procedure
The processing time for this programme is approximately 3–6 months from the date of application.
Step 1: Initial consultation with MA Consultants to assess your eligibility and discuss your investment objectives
Step 2: Our team in Greece identifies qualifying conversion projects that meet the programme requirements
Step 3: Property selection, legal due diligence, and completion of the purchase
Step 4: Submission of the Golden Visa application with all supporting documents including the Engineer’s Technical Report certifying the conversion
Step 5: Biometric data collection at the Greek immigration authority
Step 6: Issuance of the 5-year residence permit
MA Consultants will manage the full process from initial consultation through to the issuance of your residence card, working with our team on the ground in Greece.
Citizenship
After residing in Greece for seven years, the applicant may apply for citizenship through the process of naturalisation under the Greek Nationality Code (Law 3284/2004).
The naturalisation process requires the applicant to demonstrate close ties with Greece, successful financial and social integration into Greek society, and adequate knowledge of the Greek language, verified through an examination.
Greece allows dual citizenship.