Greece remains one of the most attractive destinations for foreign nationals looking to purchase property. Whether you’re seeking a seaside holiday home, an investment opportunity or relocating through the Golden Visa program, the options are diverse and often highly advantageous. The Mediterranean climate, rich cultural heritage, favorable tax treatment for foreigners, and strong returns from tourist rentals attract thousands of buyers every year.
This guide walks you through the entire process of buying property in Greece from abroad, including the steps involved, required documents, legal and tax information, potential pitfalls, and the most popular areas among international buyers.
Who Can Buy Property in Greece?
Property purchases in Greece are permitted for all EU citizens without restrictions. Non-EU nationals, including those from the UK, USA, Canada, Israel, and various Asian countries, can also buy real estate in Greece. The only exceptions apply to certain border zones, which require special permission from the Ministry of Defense.
What Type of Property Do Foreign Buyers Prefer?
Depending on their goals, international buyers usually look for:
- Seaside holiday homes, villas, or luxury beachfront properties with sea views for personal use or short-term rentals.
- Urban apartments in Athens or Thessaloniki, ideal for Airbnb or long-term leasing.
- Coastal plots of land for private development.
- Newly built energy-efficient properties and luxury homes in Greece, which appeal to families or individuals looking for a tax-friendly residency base.
How Does the Buying Process Start?
1. Selecting an Area and Property Type
Partnering with a real estate agency like Greca House is the first step for a targeted and informed property search. Suggested areas include:
- Athens (City Center, Southern or Northern Suburbs) for high-yield apartments.
- Mykonos, Santorini, Crete, Corfu for luxury seaside villas.
- Peloponnese and Argolida (e.g. Epidaurus, Nafplio) for peaceful holiday homes.
- Halkidiki and Pieria for countryside or nature retreats.
2. Power of Attorney for Legal Representation
Buyers living abroad can authorize a Greek lawyer to act on their behalf via a Power of Attorney. This can be arranged at a Greek consulate or with a local notary using apostille validation.
3. Obtaining a Greek Tax Number (AFM)
All buyers must acquire a Greek Tax ID (AFM) via the non-residents’ tax office. This is mandatory for completing the purchase and registering the property.
Legal and Tax Procedure
1. Preliminary Agreement & Due Diligence
A Greek lawyer will check the legal titles, confirm there are no encumbrances or zoning issues, and then proceed with a preliminary agreement and deposit if necessary.
2. Final Sale Contract
The sale is completed with a notarial deed signed before a Greek notary. The lawyer and a translator (if needed) are present to ensure full transparency.
3. Land Registry / Cadastre Registration
After the transaction, the new owner’s name is registered in the Greek Land Registry (Ktimatologio).
What Are the Associated Costs?
Beyond the property’s selling price, the property purchase cost in Greece also includes:
- Property transfer tax: 3% on the higher of market or assessed value.
- Lawyer’s fee: typically 1–2% + VAT.
- Notary’s fee: around 1.2% + VAT.
- Real estate agent commission: 2% + VAT.
- Land registry fees: approximately 0.5–0.7%.
What Is the Golden Visa Program?
Greece offers a 5-year renewable residency permit for third-country nationals who invest in real estate. Eligible properties start from 250,000€ (in select areas) and go up to 800,000€ in high-demand locations. Greca House provides end-to-end support for Golden Visa applicants and offers a curated portfolio of qualifying properties.
Required Documents for Buyers from Abroad
To buy a property in Greece, foreign nationals need:
- A valid passport or national ID
- Tax residency certificate
- Greek Tax ID (AFM)
- A bank account (if required for payments)
- Proof of fund transfers for capital legality
How Are Payments Made?
All transactions are made in euros, via bank wire transfer or escrow accounts. Incoming funds from abroad must be supported by proper documentation to confirm their legal source.
Can the Entire Process Be Done Remotely?
Yes, the entire process can be handled remotely with a Power of Attorney. Greca House manages every step, from property selection to closing, offering full legal coverage and regular updates to the buyer.
Why Work with Greca House Real Estate?
Greca House has extensive experience assisting foreign buyers. Here’s what we offer:
- Curated listings in Athens, the Peloponnese, Greek islands, and tourist zones.
- Specialized legal, tax, and banking support.
- Full remote transaction management with transparency and efficiency.
- Partnerships with trusted lawyers, notaries, and translators.
- Custom investment strategies for rental income, resale, or Golden Visa acquisition.
Conclusion – Buying Property in Greece from Abroad
Purchasing real estate in Greece as a foreign national is a straightforward and rewarding process, provided you follow the correct steps and work with experienced partners. With proper legal guidance, local expertise, and a clear strategy, your Greek property can become both a safe investment and a lifestyle upgrade.
Are you looking to invest in Greek real estate? Contact the Greca House team today and start your property journey with confidence.
