Greece has long been admired for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It’s no surprise that it’s also one of the most visited countries in the world. But beyond its appeal as a tourist destination, Greece offers legal pathways to citizenship that many people are unaware of.
In recent years, Greece introduced investment programs that allow individuals to obtain residency and potentially citizenship through real estate or commercial investments starting at €300,000. These programs have drawn interest from investors seeking access to the European Union.
But there’s another, often overlooked path: citizenship by descent.
Under Greek law, anyone born to a Greek parent is eligible for Greek citizenship, even if that parent never exercised their own citizenship rights. This means that many individuals born outside of Greece may already have a legitimate claim to Greek nationality, simply by virtue of their heritage.
In fact, if you can prove that at least one of your grandparents was a Greek citizen, you may be eligible. The process typically involves:
- Obtaining the ancestor’s birth registration in Greece.
- Registering in the Greek municipality where the ancestor was listed.
- (For males) Registering in the Greek male registry (“Mitroon Arrenon”).
This legal route requires accurate documentation and a solid understanding of Greek administrative procedures. While the requirements are clear, the process can be complex and time-consuming.
That’s why legal guidance is essential, especially from professionals who specialize in Greek nationality law. It helps avoid common pitfalls and protects applicants from falling into the hands of brokers or intermediaries who promise shortcuts that could lead to legal issues later on.
Whether through ancestry or investment, Greek citizenship offers broad opportunities from personal mobility across Europe to business advantages and quality of life. Understanding the correct path is the first step.