Greece has introduced a series of targeted incentives designed to attract affluent individuals, foreign retirees, and returning Greek citizens. The approach reflects a broader strategy to draw new capital, stimulate domestic investment, and encourage long-term residency among financially established individuals. By offering clear tax frameworks and defined residency pathways, Greece positions itself as a competitive European destination for those seeking both lifestyle advantages and structured fiscal benefits.
A flat-tax model for high-net-worth investors
One of the flagship incentives focuses on high-net-worth individuals willing to invest at least EUR 500,000 within three years. Eligible investments include real estate, business participation, or government bonds. In return, qualifying applicants pay a flat annual tax of EUR 100,000 on worldwide income, regardless of total earnings, plus EUR 20,000 per additional family member. This arrangement lasts up to 15 years, offering predictability for long-term planning. This system is specifically structured to attract globally mobile investors without encouraging domestic tax avoidance.
Safeguards to maintain fiscal integrity
A safeguard within the framework requires that applicants must not have been Greek tax residents for seven of the previous eight years. This condition is intended to ensure the program genuinely draws new capital from abroad rather than incentivizing wealthy residents to briefly relocate and re-enter under preferential terms. By maintaining these requirements, Greece aims to balance competitiveness with fairness and maintain the integrity of its tax base.
Tax incentives for returning professionals
While the program is designed with affluent individuals in mind, Greece also extends incentives to ordinary earners returning after time abroad. Anyone who has lived outside Greece for at least five of the previous six years and returns to work—either as an employee or self-employed—may qualify for a 50% reduction in income tax for seven years. This measure supports talent repatriation, encourages economic participation, and aims to reverse long-standing patterns of skilled labor migration.
Residency requirements and practical realities
To qualify for the reduced tax rate, individuals are expected to spend at least 183 days per year in Greece. Although enforcement of this requirement has historically been limited, the rule underscores the program’s intention to attract residents who genuinely contribute to local economic and social life. Together, these incentive structures reflect Greece’s evolving strategy to strengthen its economic landscape by appealing to both global investors and returning citizens.
Beyond traditional wealth management
Alpen, your trusted financial advisor and global wealth planner, goes beyond traditional wealth management to include citizenship and residence planning services including relocation to help our clients align their ambitions with the available options.
Market conditions and broader economic factors can significantly impact the value of investments. Investments in international markets are subject to additional risks, such as currency exchange fluctuations, political or economic instability, and variations in accounting practices. Alternative investments, including but not limited to hedge funds, private equity, and real estate, may be illiquid, speculative, and are not suitable for all investors.
The above information should be considered before making any investment decisions.
All posts and publications are for your information only and are not intended as an offer, promotion, or solicitation to buy or sell any financial instrument or perform any other financial transactions. All information and opinions expressed in posts and publications reflect our current views as of the date of the publication and may be liable to change without notice.
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