Greece Issues Over 609,000 Visas in 2024 Amid Rising Demand

Key Takeaways

• Greece issued 609,612 Schengen visas in 2024 with an 86% approval rate, ranking top five in Schengen states.
• Golden Visa introduces dual-zone investment thresholds: €800,000 in high-demand areas, €400,000 elsewhere from August 31, 2024.
• ETIAS pre-travel authorization will launch in 2026, following the Entry/Exit System rollout in late 2025.

Greece’s Schengen Visa Surge and Golden Visa Overhaul: An Analytical Review of 2024–2025 Trends

Purpose and Scope

This analysis examines the remarkable increase in Greece’s Schengen visa issuance in 2024, the evolving Golden Visa program, and the broader implications for travelers, investors, and policymakers. The review covers the latest statistics, policy changes, and practical impacts, providing a clear, evidence-based understanding of Greece’s position within the Schengen visa landscape. The scope includes both short-stay (Schengen) and long-stay (national) visas, with a focus on the 609,612 Schengen visas issued in 2024, the new dual-zone Golden Visa system, and the anticipated rollout of ETIAS.

Methodology

This content draws on official data from the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs, policy announcements, and expert commentary. Key statistics are presented in tables and explained in plain language. Trends are identified by comparing Greece’s performance to other Schengen states and by analyzing approval rates by nationality. Policy changes are described with reference to official government sources, and the practical steps for applicants are outlined. The analysis also considers the perspectives of government officials, immigration experts, and applicants to provide a balanced view.

Key Findings

• Greece issued 609,612 Schengen visas in 2024, with an 86% approval rate, ranking among the top five Schengen states for visa issuance.
• Approval rates are exceptionally high for applicants from Australia, Canada, and Singapore (over 99%), but much lower for some countries, such as Pakistan, Congo, and Nigeria (30–37%).
• Indian nationals submitted 41,418 applications, making Greece a major entry point to the Schengen Area for Indian travelers.
• The Golden Visa program will introduce a dual-zone investment system on August 31, 2024, raising minimum real estate investment thresholds in high-demand areas.
• The ETIAS pre-travel authorization system is expected to launch in 2026, following the Entry/Exit System in late 2025.
• Greece’s visa policy changes aim to attract investment outside major cities and maintain high security standards.

Data Presentation and Visual Overview

The following table summarizes key visa data for Greece in 2024–2025:

This table shows that Greece processed a large number of Schengen visa applications in 2024, with a high approval rate. The Golden Visa program, while not reporting annual application numbers, has granted over 20,000 permits to main applicants since its inception.

Comparisons, Trends, and Patterns

Greece’s Position in the Schengen Area

Greece’s issuance of 609,612 Schengen visas in 2024 places it among the top five Schengen states for visa volume. This is a significant achievement, especially considering the total of 710,024 applications. The 86% approval rate is higher than the Schengen average, reflecting Greece’s reputation as a visa-friendly destination.

Approval Rates by Nationality

• High Approval Rates: Applicants from Australia, Canada, and Singapore enjoy approval rates above 99%. This suggests that travelers from these countries usually meet documentation standards and face few barriers.
• Lower Approval Rates: Applicants from Pakistan, Congo, and Nigeria face much lower approval rates (30–37%). This highlights the importance of thorough documentation and the impact of country-specific risk assessments.

Indian Applicants

With 41,418 applications in 2024, Indian nationals are a key group for Greece’s visa policy. Greece has become a preferred Schengen entry point for Indian travelers, provided they submit complete and accurate documentation.

Golden Visa Trends

Since its launch, the Golden Visa program has granted over 20,000 permits to main applicants and more than 50,000 to family members. The upcoming dual-zone system is expected to shift investment patterns, encouraging more capital to flow into less-developed regions.

Policy Changes and Their Impact

Golden Visa Program Overhaul

Effective August 31, 2024, Greece will introduce a dual-zone investment system for the Golden Visa:

• Tier 1: €800,000 minimum real estate investment in high-demand areas (Attica, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and islands with populations over 3,100).
• Tier 2: €400,000 minimum investment in all other regions.
• Single Property Requirement: All investments must be in a single property of at least 120 square meters.
• Transitional Provision: Investors who make a 10% down payment by August 31, 2024, have until February 28, 2025, to complete their purchase and apply under the previous, lower thresholds (€250,000–€500,000).

This change aims to direct investment to regions outside major urban centers, supporting broader economic development.

Schengen Visa Policy

• Short-Stay (Schengen) Visas: Allow stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. Greece follows standard Schengen rules, and travelers from many countries, including the UK, do not require a visa for short stays.
• Long-Stay (National) Visas: Required for stays over 90 days. Applicants must apply in person at a Greek consulate, provide a completed application, a valid passport, a criminal record certificate, proof of purpose, and other supporting documents as specified by Greek law.
• Visa Refusals: Applicants are notified in writing and may appeal the decision.

Upcoming Changes: ETIAS and EES

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) is now expected to begin in 2026, following the launch of the Entry/Exit System (EES) in late 2025. ETIAS will require non-EU nationals who do not need a visa to obtain pre-travel authorization before entering the Schengen Area.

Procedural Details and Practical Implications

Schengen Visa Application Process

• Submit your application at the Greek consulate or visa center in your country of residence.
• Provide biometric data, supporting documents, proof of accommodation, travel insurance, and evidence of financial means.
• Processing times are generally efficient, especially for well-prepared applications.
• Visa holders must show proof of funds and return or onward tickets at the border.
• Overstaying the 90-day limit can result in bans of up to three years.

For official information and application forms, visit the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa page.

Golden Visa Application Process

• Choose qualifying real estate, make the required investment, and submit an application with proof of funds, property purchase, and a clean criminal record.
• Family members (spouse, children under 21, parents, and parents-in-law) can be included in the application.
• There is no minimum stay requirement for residency.
• Golden Visa holders enjoy Schengen-wide travel, access to Greek healthcare and education, and potential tax benefits under double taxation treaties.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Government Officials

Greek officials stress the dual goals of attracting foreign investment, especially outside major urban centers, and maintaining high security and documentation standards. The new Golden Visa tiers are designed to balance these objectives.

Immigration Experts

Experts highlight Greece’s competitive edge in the Schengen visa landscape due to efficient processing and high approval rates. However, they caution that documentation quality remains crucial, especially for applicants from countries with higher rejection rates.

Investors and Applicants

Investors value the flexibility, family inclusion, and relatively low investment thresholds of the Golden Visa. Many are urged to act before the August 31, 2024, deadline to benefit from lower thresholds.

Comparative Analysis: Greece vs. Other Schengen States

Greece’s 86% Schengen visa approval rate is among the highest in the Schengen Area. The country’s openness, efficient processing, and clear documentation requirements make it an attractive destination for travelers and investors. In contrast, some Schengen states have stricter documentation checks and lower approval rates, especially for applicants from countries with higher perceived risks.

Historical Context and Future Outlook

Background

Greece’s visa policy liberalization and the Golden Visa program were introduced to boost tourism, attract foreign investment, and support economic recovery after the 2008 financial crisis. These policies have helped position Greece as a leading Schengen entry point and investment destination.

Recent Trends

The surge in visa issuance in 2024 reflects both pent-up demand following the pandemic and Greece’s strategic efforts to attract more visitors and investors. The high approval rates for certain nationalities indicate a focus on facilitating travel for low-risk applicants.

Anticipated Developments

The introduction of dual-zone Golden Visa tiers is expected to shift investment patterns, with more capital flowing to underdeveloped regions. The rollout of ETIAS in 2026 will add a new layer of pre-travel authorization for non-EU nationals, potentially affecting travel patterns and application volumes.

Limitations of the Analysis

• Annual application numbers for the Golden Visa program are not available; only cumulative figures are reported.
• Approval rates by nationality are based on available data and may not capture all nuances.
• The impact of ETIAS and EES is speculative, as these systems are not yet operational.
• Policy changes may be subject to further revision by Greek authorities.

Evidence-Based Conclusions

Greece’s visa policy in 2024–2025 demonstrates a strong commitment to openness, efficient processing, and targeted investment. The issuance of 609,612 Schengen visas, with an 86% approval rate, underscores Greece’s status as a top Schengen destination. The upcoming changes to the Golden Visa program reflect a strategic shift toward regional development and higher investment standards in high-demand areas.

Applicants from countries with high approval rates can expect a smooth process, while those from countries with lower approval rates should pay extra attention to documentation. Investors interested in the Golden Visa should act quickly to benefit from current thresholds before the August 31, 2024, deadline.

Practical Guidance and Next Steps

• Travelers: Prepare complete and accurate documentation to maximize approval chances. Check the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the latest requirements and forms.
• Investors: Consult certified immigration lawyers or consultancies for guidance on the Golden Visa program. Act before August 31, 2024, to secure lower investment thresholds.
• Applicants from High-Risk Countries: Pay special attention to documentation quality and consider consulting immigration experts for support.
• Future Travelers: Stay informed about the rollout of ETIAS and EES, as these systems will affect entry requirements for non-EU nationals.

As reported by VisaVerge.com, Greece’s visa surge and policy changes are reshaping the country’s role in the Schengen Area, offering new opportunities for travelers and investors while maintaining high standards of security and documentation.

Official Resources

For the most current and official information, applicants should consult the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs and their local Greek consulate. The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs visa page provides authoritative information and application forms for Schengen and national visas.

Summary Table: Key 2024–2025 Greece Visa Data

Conclusion

Greece’s approach to Schengen visas and the Golden Visa program in 2024–2025 highlights a careful balance between openness, security, and economic development. The high number of Schengen visas issued, the efficient processing system, and the new investment tiers for the Golden Visa program position Greece as a leading destination for both travelers and investors. By staying informed and preparing thorough applications, individuals can take full advantage of Greece’s evolving visa landscape.

Learn Today

Schengen Visa → A short-stay visa allowing travel within Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Golden Visa → A residency permit granted in exchange for qualifying real estate investment in Greece.
ETIAS → European Travel Information and Authorization System, requiring pre-travel clearance for certain non-EU visitors starting 2026.
Dual-Zone Investment System → A Golden Visa policy dividing Greece into two zones with distinct real estate investment minimums.
Approval Rate → The percentage of visa applications accepted compared to total submitted within a given period.

This Article in a Nutshell

Greece experienced a visa surge in 2024, issuing over 609,000 Schengen visas with high approvals and revamping the Golden Visa. New dual-zone investment rules and upcoming ETIAS system highlight Greece’s strategic visa policies fostering travel, investment, and regional development within the evolving Schengen framework.
— By VisaVerge.com