Greece

Tax advantages

• Non-domicile regime: Foreign-source income and capital gains are exempt from Greek tax for up to 15 years, with an annual flat fee of €100,000.
• No wealth tax or inheritance tax on assets held outside Greece for non-domiciled residents.
• Favorable lump-sum tax option for high-net-worth individuals relocating to Greece, offering a flat annual tax of €100,000 on worldwide income.
• No capital gains tax on the sale of Greek real estate held for more than five years (subject to conditions).
• Double tax treaty network with over 50 countries, reducing withholding taxes on dividends, interest, and royalties.

Tax disadvantages

• High social security contributions for employees and self-employed, which can add up to 25% of income.
• Property taxes (ENFIA) on Greek real estate can be significant, especially for high-value properties, with rates up to 1% of assessed value.
• Limited availability of tax-efficient investment vehicles compared to other European hubs like Luxembourg or Malta.

Residency advantages

• Golden Visa program: Minimum investment of €250,000 in real estate (€500,000 in popular areas) grants residency to investors and their families, with no minimum stay requirement.
• Non-domicile regime: No requirement to spend 183 days in Greece; residency can be maintained with a physical presence of just 60 days per year.
• Path to citizenship after 7 years of residency (or 3 years for investors under certain conditions), with a Greek passport ranking among the strongest globally.
• Family reunification: Spouse, dependent children, and parents can be included in the residency application.
• No inheritance tax on assets transferred to direct heirs (spouse, children) for Greek tax residents under certain conditions.

Residency disadvantages

• Golden Visa does not lead directly to citizenship; the path requires additional years of residency and language proficiency.
• Real estate investment thresholds have increased in prime areas, making the program less accessible.
• Bureaucratic delays in processing residency applications and renewals, often requiring legal assistance.
• Physical presence requirement for tax residency (183 days) if not using the non-domicile regime, which may conflict with other tax obligations.

Living quality

Greece offers a high quality of life with a mild Mediterranean climate, over 250 sunny days per year, and a relaxed pace of life. Affluent suburbs like Ekali and Vouliagmeni provide low crime rates, 24/7 private security, and proximity to Athens' international schools and hospitals. The country's rich history, world-class cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene are complemented by easy access to secluded beaches and island escapes via private yacht. However, public infrastructure in rural areas can be inconsistent, and the healthcare system, while adequate, may require private insurance for top-tier care.

Best for

• Greece is ideal for high-net-worth individuals seeking a Mediterranean lifestyle with tax efficiency, particularly those with significant foreign-source income who can benefit from the non-domicile regime. It suits families who value privacy, security, and elite education, as well as investors looking for a strategic European base with a strong passport. The Golden Visa is attractive for those who want residency without a minimum stay requirement, while the lump-sum tax option appeals to ultra-high-net-worth individuals willing to pay a fixed annual fee for tax simplicity.