Naturalization Citizenship: Grounds, How to Obtain, and Tips

Greece has always been associated with natural beauty, rich culture and unique history. But now, as the world is becoming increasingly globalised, property in Greece is becoming not just a status element, but one of the most promising investments. The economic crisis of 2008 made property prices affordable and 2024 has become a turning point for those looking to invest profitably. Against the backdrop of a growing economy and improving infrastructure, property in Greece in 2024 promises to be a real financial treasure trove.

The article will give a lot of useful information for those who want to buy property in Greece.

The best cities to buy property in Greece

Buying a home in Greece always raises a lot of questions: which cities are the most attractive, what you should pay attention to, and what are the peculiarities of the property market in each region. Each location offers its own unique lifestyle, investment opportunities and level of affordability.

Athens – the heart of Greece and an investor’s dream

Athens is not just the capital city, but also the cultural and economic centre of the whole of Greece. Its historical charm, modern renovations and growing economic attractiveness make Athens one of the most promising locations for investment. In recent years, residential prices in this location have shown strong growth. Between 2018 and 2024, the price per square metre in the central districts increased by 25-30%, indicating increased interest from both foreign and local buyers.

The best places to buy property in Greece are Plaka, Kolonaki and Pangrati. Here, ancient buildings neighbour with modern apartments, and investments in renovation can bring significant profits. Infrastructure also keeps pace: the metro, new parks and modern public spaces attract young people and professionals, which has a positive impact on rental income.

Property prices in Athens, Greece vary depending on the area: in the centre the cost can reach €3500 per square metre, while in the suburbs it can be around €1800.

Thessaloniki – urban charm and great deals

Thessaloniki, the second largest city in the country, offers a unique combination of an active urban lifestyle and a cosy atmosphere. It has become attractive for young professionals and families due to its developed infrastructure and many educational institutions. Start-ups and small businesses are actively developing here, making the rental market active and stable.

The average cost of housing is about 2000 euros per square metre, which is noticeably lower than in Athens. At the same time, rental yields remain high, especially in areas close to universities and business centres. Buying property in Thessaloniki in Greece is a wise choice, which can bring an income of 5% to 8% per annum. The economic benefits are combined with a high quality of life: wide promenades, restaurants with traditional cuisine and an active nightlife make this location truly vibrant.

Corfu – island villas and a sea of opportunities

Corfu is not just a holiday island, it is one of the best places to buy property in the Greek islands. Surrounded by olive groves and stunning seascapes, the villas attract those seeking tranquillity and privacy. In recent years, the island has also become an investment destination due to the growing tourist traffic and the popularity of short term rentals.

Prices for villas in Corfu Greece range from €4,000 to €6,000 per square metre, depending on location and proximity to the sea. Thanks to the booming tourist sector and the popularity of renting through platforms like Airbnb, investments here pay off faster than in other parts of the country.

What kind of property to buy in Greece: villas, flats, flats

The Greek Islands offer a wide range of accommodation, from luxury villas with swimming pools and gardens to cosy apartments. Island life appeals to those who are tired of the hustle and bustle of the city and want to enjoy nature. For those looking for something more budget-friendly, flats are also a great choice, especially in the tourist areas.

Villas offer ideal conditions for living and relaxing: large areas, private territories, proximity to the sea. However, their cost can reach 5000-7000 euros per square metre. Houses in Greece are more affordable, with prices between 2500-4000. Apartments, on the other hand, are often located in apartment complexes with common recreational areas, making them ideal for renting out.

Residence permit in Greece through the purchase of property: possibilities and peculiarities of obtaining a residence permit

A real opportunity not only to enjoy life in this wonderful country, but also to travel freely in the Schengen area. In order to obtain a residence permit, it is necessary to purchase a residential property worth at least 250,000 euros. The process of registration includes several stages:

1. Buying a property – you need to find a property in Greece that meets the requirements for a residence permit.
2. Documents – passport, sales contract, insurance policy and medical documents.
3. Filing – once purchased and all documents have been completed, filing is done through the Greek Migration Office.
4. Obtaining a residence permit – after verification of documents and approval procedure.

The process takes from three to six months, depending on the complexity of the situation. The acquisition entitles you not only to a residence permit, but also to reside in the country with the possibility of renewing the status every five years. This is an excellent opportunity for those seeking stability and access to European markets.

Conclusion

Buying a property in Greece in 2024 is a good idea. Athens and Thessaloniki are suitable for those who want to invest in an urban lifestyle with active rentals, while Corfu and other islands are suitable for those looking for privacy and high income from tourism.

Both countries are under the sun, people in them speak Greek, and the states offer residence permits. But once you delve deeper, the differences will begin to show. The decision to choose Cyprus or Greece for life does not depend on the taste for feta or beaches. It requires calculating costs, statuses, taxes, infrastructure accounting, and adaptation in 2025.

Is Cyprus or Greece better suited to life when analyzing housing and infrastructure?

In Cyprus, the average rent of a two-room apartment in Limassol will cost 1,500-1,800 euros. In Nicosia— it is cheaper: €900-1, 100. In Greece, on the continent, similar accommodation in Thessaloniki costs €600-850, in Athens — up to € 1,200.

When buying:

1. Cyprus offers properties from €2,000/m2 in Paphos to €4,500/m2 in Limassol.

2. Greece holds villas from €1,200/m2 in the provinces to €3,800/m2 in Athens.

The difference is in the quality of the finish, legal purity, and transparency of transactions. Cyprus accelerates the processing, completes transactions in 3-4 weeks. Greece requires a notary, long-term approval, waiting up to 3 months.

Daily living budget in Cyprus and Greece

A family of two spends per month:

• in Cyprus — from €2,300 (without rent);

• in Greece — from €1,800 (without rent).

Grocery basket:

1. Cyprus: a liter of milk — €1.4, chicken — €6.5/kg, gasoline — €1.55/l.

2. Greece: milk — €1.1, meat — €5.8/kg, petrol — €1.8/l.

Cyprus or Greece is better for life — the real budget decides. The first option is more convenient, cleaner, and faster. The second one is cheaper, but slower.

Legal status: Residence permit, permanent residence and access to citizenship

Permanent residence in Cyprus is issued under the investment program: €300,000 — real estate, income from €30,000 per year, additional payments for family members. The terms are up to 6 months, and the status is indefinite. Permanent residence in Greece requires investments of €250,000 in real estate, but the card will have to be renewed every 5 years, confirming the existence of an asset.

A residence permit in both countries requires:

• address availability;

• medical insurance;

• no criminal record;

• minimum income.

Cyprus or Greece is better for life — it shows the speed and reliability of the status. The first country gives you a perpetual card faster. The second one is cheaper, but requires regular updates.

Is Cyprus or Greece better for living in terms of taxes?

Taxes in Cyprus for foreigners:

1. Income tax — 0% up to €19,500, from €19,501 — 20-35%.

2. No inheritance tax and no dividends (with non-dom status).

3. Corporate tax — 12.5%.

Taxes in Greece for foreigners:

1. Income tax — from 22% to 45%.

2. Annual property tax.

3. The bonus program for “new tax residents” is a 50% discount on personal income tax for 7 years.

Culture, climate, and adaptation: how the environment shapes the way of life

Each country dictates its own rhythm, its own habits and its own style of survival. To understand whether Cyprus or Greece is better for life, it is important to understand not only the prices, but also what is happening between the lines: the atmosphere, people’s behavior, language, seasonality.

Language and level of integration

Cyprus creates a low barrier to adaptation. The official language is Greek, but the English—speaking infrastructure works almost everywhere: from lease agreements to hospital referrals. In Cyprus, more than 75% of the population uses English fluently in everyday life, especially in large cities and on the coast. Banks, pharmacies, clinics, lawyers — all processes are run in English without being forced to integrate.

In Greece, the situation is diametrically different. Even in Athens, basic English is used only in tourist spots. Government agencies, courts, medical institutions, and even the rental sector require basic knowledge of Greek. Signatures, notices, and legal documents are all drawn up in Greek, which automatically requires either knowledge of the language or the cost of an interpreter and lawyer. Cyprus wins unconditionally for a quick and comfortable adaptation.

Climate and impact on life

In Cyprus, summer lasts from May to October, with temperatures reaching +34°C, but humidity remains moderate. It rains for 20-30 days a year, mostly in winter. The average temperature in January is +15°C, heating is used selectively. The architecture is designed to keep cool, air conditioners work almost everywhere.

Advantages:

1. Weather conditions are stable all year round.

2. No sudden fluctuations.

3. A minimum of seasonal exacerbations in medicine (for example, acute respiratory viral infections).

4. The opportunity to lead an active lifestyle without seasonal restrictions.

In Greece, the climate is diverse and sometimes harsh. In the continental part (Athens, Thessaloniki) — winter temperatures drop to +5°C, snowfall is possible. In summer, the air warms up to +38°C with high humidity. On the islands (Crete, Rhodes), the heat is easier to bear, but storms and pressure drops are possible in the off—season. Houses often do not have insulation, heating is connected via diesel installations or electric radiators.

Features:

1. Weather instability in winter.

2. Heating costs in 4-5 months of the year.

3. Increased humidity in coastal regions.

4. The locals are used to the climatic changes, but the newcomers are having a hard time adapting.

Cyprus or Greece is better for living in terms of climate — shows the sustainability of Cyprus. Especially for families with children, the elderly and those who do not tolerate humidity or sudden temperature changes.

Mentality, daily rhythm and relationships

Cyprus: slowness and restraint. Life goes on without fuss. People are polite, but not intrusive. They rarely interfere in the affairs of others and respect personal boundaries. The crime rate is low, and the locals behave predictably. Office hours end early, and there is a two—hour lunch break. In government agencies, although not without queues, they serve calmly, without pressure.

Key features:

1. Moderate speed of life.

2. A minimum of stress and social outbursts.

3. High level of trust in business and everyday life.

4. An abundance of British habits in the organization of everyday life (including left-hand traffic and a 13-hour rhythm).

Greece: temperament and energy. Life is in full swing. People speak loudly, emotionally, react quickly, and sometimes aggressively. Respect for formalities is expressed through mimicry: locals know how to circumvent the rule, apply pressure through familiarity, and achieve what they need through volume rather than procedure. In small towns, a rural model of communication is evident: constant questioning, advice, and neighborhood pressure.

Features:

1. Strong rhetorical culture (everyone talks and argues).

2. High level of social interaction.

3. Difficulties with personal boundaries.

4. Problems with compliance with formal procedures (many processes require “urgent reminders”).

Conclusion: Cyprus or Greece is better for life in terms of mentality — it depends on preferences: Cyprus is for those who are looking for stability and distance, Greece is for those who are ready to participate in a public spectacle.

Adaptation: the time and price of entry

In Cyprus, the adaptation takes 1-2 months. Buying or renting real estate, connecting water and electricity, opening a bank account and taking out insurance is carried out without the involvement of a lawyer. The English-speaking staff explains everything step by step, and the service works flexibly. Social connections arise through business or children — Cypriots are not imposed, but they are ready to support.

In Greece, adaptation takes up to 6-9 months. Each procedure requires a translation, a notary, and approval from a government agency. Queues for submitting documents in some cases reach 30-40 days. Without an intermediary, it is almost impossible to understand registration, taxation, and rental rules. At the same time, local people are actively involved in communication, which helps to speed up socialization.

Conclusion: Cyprus or Greece is better for life, integration complexity shows. Cyprus requires less effort and expenses, Greece requires more effort, but it gives you a circle of friends faster.

Cyprus or Greece for life in terms of quality and cost of medicine

In Cyprus, an international school will cost €7,000-11,000 per year. In Greece — in Athens up to €8,000, in the provinces — less. Schools in both countries require language proficiency, but Cyprus offers more English-speaking options.

Medicine:

1. Cyprus — Gesy state system, minimum fees, fee base of €10-30 per visit.

2. Greece — insurance through EOPYY, tariff surcharges, complex destination system.

When to choose Cyprus and when to choose Greece

Cyprus is suitable if:

• An English-speaking environment is required;

• an investment is planned with a quick exit to permanent residence;

• a tax residence with benefits is important;

• The simplicity of the bureaucracy and access to government services are critical.;

• we need a climate without dampness and precipitation.

Greece wins if:

• The budget for moving is limited;

• interested in buying cheap real estate;

• willingness to integrate into local culture;

• I’m not afraid of a complicated administration;

• The priority is the mentality and proximity to the European mainland.

Conclusion: Making a choice requires being honest with yourself

Both countries grant residence permits, access to the EU, the sea and the climate. But the formula of life in each is completely different. Cyprus is more structured, more pragmatic, and more expensive. Greece is wider, more sincere, cheaper.

The decision requires calculation, understanding of the scenario for 3-5 years ahead and a choice between stability or romantic chaos. It is better to choose the country that will provide exactly the right platform, and not just a visa in your passport.