Interest from U.S. citizens in Greece’s Golden Visa residency-by-investment program is rising steadily, driven by increasing approvals and property purchases, according to recent data.
Research from Enness Global shows that participation by Americans in the program rose sharply over the past year. Cumulative approvals for U.S. citizens reached 578 by December 2025, up from 388 in December 2024, a 49% year-on-year increase. Overall program approvals across all nationalities increased 60.4% in the same period, highlighting continued global demand for Greece’s residency pathway.
While Chinese, Turkish, and Israeli nationals still account for the largest share of Golden Visa permits, U.S. applications are growing faster than any other major nationality, the report said. Monthly growth for U.S. citizens averaged 3.4% in 2025, indicating stable momentum.
Data from Varnavas Law Firm, which advises on real estate and investment migration, shows U.S. property purchases through the program rose 30% in the fourth quarter of 2025 compared with the same period in 2024. The increase continues a trend that began about two years ago, reflecting sustained American interest in Greek real estate.
U.S. buyers typically target higher-value properties, often exceeding €1 million ($1.19 million), with demand strongest in the southern coastal districts of Athens. Piraeus is also emerging as a popular location, supported by redevelopment projects, port-related economic activity and infrastructure upgrades. Advisors said while location preferences are gradually expanding, prime and near-prime coastal areas remain the main focus for most U.S. applicants.
The Golden Visa program, launched in 2013, offers residency permits in exchange for property investment of at least €250,000, providing a pathway for foreigners to live in Greece and travel freely within the Schengen Zone.