Can Foreigners Buy Property in Greece? A Practical Guide to Ownership and the Buying Process
Foreigners can freely own property in Greece, with only a few border zones requiring special permission. Here is how the buying process works, from your tax number to the final notary deed.
Greece has long welcomed international buyers, and the good news is that owning a home here is refreshingly open. Whether you are drawn to an island retreat or a city apartment, the legal path to ownership is well established and, with the right guidance, straightforward.
Who can buy
EU and EEA citizens buy property in Greece on exactly the same terms as Greek nationals, with no restrictions. Non-EU nationals can also buy almost anywhere, but properties in certain border and strategic zones, such as parts of northern Greece and some eastern Aegean islands, the Dodecanese and areas of Crete, require a permit from the Ministry of National Defence under Law 1892/1990. This permission is usually granted, though it can take a few months.
First step: your AFM tax number
Every buyer needs a Greek tax number (AFM), obtained from the local tax office or through a representative. Most buyers also open a Greek bank account to keep the transaction transparent and to handle taxes and utilities smoothly.
The buying process
Once you agree on a property, you sign a preliminary contract and pay a deposit, typically a few thousand euros, to reserve it. Your lawyer then carries out due diligence, checking the title at the Land Registry and National Cadastre (Ktimatologio) for debts, liens or planning issues, while an engineer confirms the building matches its permits. When everything is clear, a notary drafts and authenticates the final deed, transfer tax of around 3% is paid, and the deed is registered in your name at the cadastre.
Why a lawyer matters
An independent Greek lawyer is not legally required, but is strongly recommended. They verify ownership, uncover hidden liabilities, and protect your interests, something the notary, who is neutral, does not do on your behalf.
The residency link: the Golden Visa
Buying property can lead to residency through Greece's Golden Visa. Following 2024 reforms, the minimum investment rose to 800,000 euros in high-demand areas such as Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos and Santorini, and 400,000 euros elsewhere, with a reduced 250,000 euro tier for certain conversions and restorations. A minimum property size of 120 square metres applies to the main tiers.
This article is provided for information only and is not legal, tax or investment advice. Always consult a qualified local professional before buying property in Greece.
Sources: globalcitizensolutions.com, investropa.com, globalresidenceindex.com