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How to Become a Greek Citizen

How to Obtain Greek Citizenship: The 4 Legal Pathways

Acquiring Greek citizenship grants the right to live, work, and move freely within Greece and the European Union, as well as access to one of the world’s strongest passports.

Greek nationality law recognizes four distinct legal pathways. Each route is governed by different eligibility criteria, documentation standards, timelines, and legal requirements.

The Four Legal Routes to Greek Citizenship

  • Greek citizenship by descent
  • Greek citizenship by marriage
  • Greek citizenship through investment (Golden Visa route)
  • Greek citizenship by naturalization

Path 1: Greek Citizenship by Descent

Best suited for: Individuals with Greek parents or grandparents

Citizenship by descent is the most direct and efficient route for those who can establish Greek ancestry through documented lineage.

Core Requirements

  • Greek parent or grandparent at the relevant time
  • Civil registry records proving lineage
  • Birth, marriage, and death certificates
  • Greek municipal registration records

 

Timeline: 3 months – 2 years Fees: €100–€300

No residence or language requirements apply.

Path 2: Greek Citizenship Through Marriage

Best suited for: Foreign spouses of Greek citizens residing in Greece

Core Requirements

  • Legally recognized marriage to a Greek citizen
  • Three years of continuous residence in Greece
  • Valid residence permit
  • Greek language proficiency (B1)
  • Social and economic integration
  • Clean criminal record
Minimum timeline: 3 years Fees: ~€700

Path 3: Greek Citizenship via Investment (Golden Visa Route)

Best suited for: Non-EU investors seeking residence leading to citizenship

The Greek Golden Visa grants residence through qualifying investment. It does not grant citizenship directly, but residence may later support naturalization.

Core Requirements

  • Real estate investment (€250,000–€800,000)
  • Clean criminal record
  • Private health insurance

 

Citizenship eligibility: After 7 years Investment: €250,000–€800,000+

Path 4: Greek Citizenship by Naturalization

Best suited for: Long-term legal residents of Greece

Core Requirements

  • Seven years of lawful residence
  • Continuous residence permits
  • Greek language proficiency (B1)
  • Citizenship exam (language, history, civics)
  • Stable income and tax compliance
  • Clean criminal record

 

Timeline: 7+ years Fees: ~€700

How to Obtain a Greek Passport

  • Submit passport application in Greece or at a consulate
  • Present confirmation of Greek citizenship
  • Provide biometric data
  • Pay passport fee (€84.40)

What Is the Greek Golden Visa?

Introduced in 2014, the Greek Golden Visa grants a renewable five-year residence permit to non-EU / non-EEA nationals who complete a qualifying investment in Greece.

  • Legal residence in Greece
  • Visa-free travel within the Schengen Area
  • Family reunification rights
  • Potential pathway to Greek citizenship through naturalization
Choosing the correct Greek citizenship pathway from the outset is the most decisive factor for speed, approval, and long-term legal certainty.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Does Greece allow dual citizenship?
Yes. Greek law fully recognizes dual and multiple citizenship.

Can I qualify under more than one route?
In many cases, yes. Strategic selection is essential.

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