Pros of investing in commercial property abroad

A home by the sea is not just a purchase, it is an investment in quality of life. Greece with its warm climate, clean beaches and stunning views attracts those who dream of tranquillity, comfort and beauty. Where to buy a flat in Greece by the sea and how to organise the whole process? In this article we will go through each step, from choosing a region to organising all the necessary documents.

Attica – proximity to the capital and the sea

Attica is a great place for those who want to live on the coast but not lose access to metropolitan life. There are prestigious coastal neighbourhoods such as Glyfada, Vouliagmeni and Varkitsa, where clean beaches are combined with first-class infrastructure. The average cost per square metre is around 3500-5000 euros.

Attica has an international airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”, which makes frequent travelling comfortable and fast. Buy a flat in Greece by the sea here – not just prestigious, but also convenient in terms of infrastructure. There are top restaurants, shopping centres and elite schools nearby. Living in Attica is comfortable both for families with children, thanks to the many private kindergartens and schools, and for business people who want to be in the centre of events.

Crete is an island of opportunity and vibrant culture

Crete is a place with a unique flavour, where life is relaxed and vibrant. It is the largest island in Greece and offers accommodation to suit all tastes, from small flats on the coast to spacious villas. The average price per square metre ranges from 1500 to 3000 euros depending on location. Buying a house by the sea in Crete is also an opportunity for a stable income.

Tourism is actively developing here, the island attracts many tourists every year, and renting out accommodation can be a great source of profit. Developed infrastructure, abundance of historical sights – Knossos Palace, Arkadi Monastery – and picturesque landscapes make this island not only attractive for living, but also favourable for investment.

Santorini – luxury accommodation with unique views

Santorini is an island that captivates at first sight with its views. Snow-white houses with blue domes against the azure sea create a unique image. Here you can buy a flat in Greece by the sea and get access to the most beautiful sunsets in the world, which can be seen from the caldera.

Property in Santorini is more expensive than the national average – from 4000 to 7000 euros per square metre, but this investment brings not only status, but also joy every day. The island offers many restaurants, designer boutiques and cosy cafes. Santorini is the choice of those who appreciate luxury, are not afraid to spend on real emotions and want to be in one of the most photogenic places on the planet.

Features:

1. Spectacular views of the caldera and the Aegean Sea.
2. An exclusive property that has remained in demand for many years.
3. The opportunity to enjoy the best restaurants with traditional Greek cuisine and the best wines of the region.

The procedure: How to buy a flat in Greece by the sea

Buying a home involves several key steps, each of which is important for the successful completion of the transaction. It starts with choosing a property and a reliable agency. It is important to find a trustworthy agency to avoid hassles and hidden fees. After choosing the object, a preliminary agreement is signed, which fixes the price and terms of the deal. The agreement protects the interests of the parties and guarantees that the property will be secured while the legal due diligence takes place.

It is necessary to collect documents to buy a property in Greece, among them:

1. Passport and Tax Identification Number (TIN).
2. Bank statements proving the financial solvency of the buyer.
3. Certificate of absence of debts and legality of income.

It is impossible to buy a flat in Greece by the sea without these documents. Each document must be prepared in advance to avoid delays in the process of registration of the transaction. All originals must be translated into Greek and notarised. After the preparation of the package follows the registration of ownership rights in the Land Registry, where all changes and legal rights to the property are recorded. This is the final stage after which the person becomes the full owner.

Prices of flats in Greece by the sea: what to expect?

The cost varies depending on the region chosen. For example, in the prestigious areas of Attica the price per square metre can reach 4000-5000 euros, while in Crete or in remote parts of the country – from 1500 to 3000 euros per square metre. The possibility to take out a mortgage on property in Greece makes the purchase more affordable. Greek banks offer mortgages to foreigners and the rates vary from 3 to 5%, depending on the terms of the bank and the financial history of the buyer:

1. Down payment – typically 20-30% of the home’s value.
2. Mortgage rate – can vary depending on the term and bank, starting at 3%.
3. The repayment period is up to 30 years.

Taxes and additional costs when buying a property in Greece

You need to consider not only the cost of the property, but also the additional costs:

1. Property purchase tax – is 3-5% of the value of the property depending on its category.
2. Notary services – the cost of which is about 1-1.5% of the total amount of the transaction.
3. Legal services – lawyer’s fee for checking the legal cleanliness of the object (about 1%).
4. Registration fees – at the Land Registry, which are approximately 0.5% of the value.

All of these costs can add up to 10% of the total cost of the property, so it’s important to consider them when planning your budget.

Why it is favourable to buy a flat by the sea in Greece: How to get a residence permit

Residence permits in Greece for the purchase of real estate are available to those who purchase a property with a value of 250,000 euros or more. The residence permit entitles the holder to travel freely within the Schengen area, to use the services of the local health care system and educational institutions.

Advantages of a residence permit:

1. Freedom of movement – the possibility of visa-free entry to Schengen countries.
2. Health and education – access to public and private facilities.
3. Five-year term – renewable if the property remains in the owner’s possession.

Conclusion

Prestigious Attica, vibrant Crete or romantic Santorini, each location offers unique opportunities for those looking to invest in their future. Buying a flat in Greece by the sea is not just about buying a property, it is about making the dream of living by the azure coast a reality.

Naturalized citizenship provides access to social guarantees, voting rights, freedom of movement, and new economic opportunities. This is not a random status, but the result of consistent fulfillment of the requirements laid down in the legislation of a particular country. Unlike birthright, this path requires proven loyalty, a real contribution to society, knowledge of local norms, and willingness to undergo a full-fledged procedure.

The Basic Conditions for Naturalization: What the Law Is Based On

To obtain citizenship by naturalization, it is necessary to meet the basic criteria. Countries form them according to the model of the adaptation filter. For example, in Portugal, an applicant will need at least 5 years of legal residence, proof of knowledge of the Portuguese language, a source of income and no criminal record. Registration of a permanent place of residence and a tax number is a prerequisite.

The key role in the process is played by:

• residence in the country for a continuous period of 3 to 10 years, depending on the jurisdiction;
• Domicile is the actual center of vital interests;
• integration into society — knowledge of language, history and traditions;
• reputation — absence of criminal and administrative violations;
• income is an official confirmation of economic solvency;
• Loyalty to the constitutional order is an oath or declaration of commitment.

These parameters form the basis of the naturalization conditions, regardless of the country of application. For example, in Germany, it is important not only to live there for 8 years, but also to demonstrate integration through language proficiency, social participation, and stable employment. In Canada, there is a points-based system that considers education, work experience, language skills, and residency status.

How to Obtain Citizenship by Naturalization: Step-by-Step Logic

The naturalization procedure is formed as a linear legal process. It begins with the legalization of stay – a residence permit, which is converted into permanent residence. Next, the confirmation of the level of adaptation, payment of fees and passing of mandatory exams is required.

In most countries, the application is submitted electronically or in writing through migration services. For example, in Spain, the applicant is required to personally submit documents, pass an interview and wait for a decision for 1 year. At this stage, a legally clean package of documents is important: passport, residence permit/permanent residence, tax and employment certificates, language certificate, and certificate of no criminal record.

The final stage is taking the oath and being added to the state register of citizens. After that, a passport is issued. This is how the result is formed — the acquisition of citizenship by a foreigner, which is legalized within the framework of the country’s legislation.

Examples of different approaches: Features of citizenship by naturalization in Europe

Greece has a “double control” system, which is administered by the Immigration Department and the Ministry of the Interior. The process requires a minimum of 7 years of legal residence, knowledge of the Greek language, history, and the basics of the Constitution. The interview is conducted in the form of a structured test, which is supplemented by an oral part. The applicant must demonstrate their involvement in the country’s cultural, economic, or educational life.

The Czech Republic requires at least 5 years of permanent residence, active employment, proof of income, and successful completion of a test in the Czech language and legal basics. The advantage is a clear logic of consideration and standard terms of up to 180 days. France places emphasis on integration – language knowledge at B1 level, no long-term trips outside the country and proof of participation in public life. Continuous domicile for at least 5 years, availability of income and insurance are important.

Residence, Permanent Residence, and Permanent Settlement: The Starting Point

Before obtaining citizenship by naturalization, you will need to go through the stages of migration legalization. It all starts with a visa (Type D, investment, work or family). This is followed by a temporary residence permit (from 1 to 5 years). Upon completion, the applicant receives permanent residence (permanent residence).

The status allows you to live, work, and travel freely within the country, but it does not grant you civil rights. It is necessary to count the period of naturalization. For example, in Italy, permanent residence opens the way to applying for citizenship after 10 years of residence (or 3 years for descendants of Italians).

Naturalization Citizenship and Examination: Maturity test

In most countries, the naturalization process includes an exam. This exam tests the applicant’s knowledge of the official language, the basics of the legal system, history, and administrative structure. The exam can be conducted in written or oral form. For example, in Austria, the mandatory exam consists of three sections: constitutional system, country history, and basic rights and obligations of citizens. Without successfully passing the exam, naturalization is not possible. The exam serves as a test of the applicant’s readiness to become a part of society. It assesses the applicant’s level of integration, language proficiency, and cultural understanding. Preparing for the exam requires time, but it increases the chances of approval.

Reputation, Criminal Record, and Income: Pitfalls

Even if all the conditions are met, the candidate may be rejected. The reasons include criminal records, unpaid debts, fake employment, or involvement in prohibited organizations. The government conducts checks through law enforcement and financial channels.

Financial stability is confirmed by bank statements, employment contracts, and tax records. To be eligible for naturalization, it is important to demonstrate that the candidate is not dependent on social benefits. This demonstrates independence and a willingness to take economic responsibility.

The quick way to a passport: investing in real estate

Despite the complexity of the classic scheme, there is a shorter and more pragmatic route — investing in real estate. A number of countries (for example, Portugal, Greece, Cyprus) provide a residence permit for an investment in objects from 250,000 to 500,000 euros. Then this residence permit turns into permanent residence and after 5-7 years into citizenship.

The investment model reduces the bureaucratic burden. Most often, exams and interviews in such cases are replaced by confirmation of the transparency of the transaction and the source of funds. For families with capital, this path turns out to be more efficient and faster than naturalization through integration.

Practical advice: how to avoid mistakes

Citizenship by naturalization requires discipline and strategy. To complete the process without rejections or delays, it is essential to follow these simple yet critical guidelines:

1. Maintain continuity of residence: long trips reset the length of service.

2. To participate in public life: volunteering, education, taxes.

3. Confirm your income: official payments, contracts, and taxes.

4. Learn the language consistently: certificates and practice.

5. Check the validity of documents and avoid oversights.

6. Keep all copies and originals, including rental agreements, checks, and statements.

7. Do not hide information: even a minor discrepancy causes a rejection.

8. Start preparing for the exam in advance.

9. Avoid falsifications and intermediaries without a license.

10. Consider investing in real estate as a backup option.

Conclusion

Citizenship by naturalization is formed not by chance, but sequentially — step by step, from legal entry to the final oath. The path is suitable for those who are ready to adapt, learn the language, comply with the laws and integrate into a new society. States perceive citizenship as a tool of trust, and therefore set clear requirements — from residence experience to proven income and knowledge of traditions. Each stage of the process checks not only the documents, but also the intentions.