Greece has long captured the hearts of travelers and investors alike — from its whitewashed island villages to its full membership in the European Union. But for those looking to take their connection further, Greek citizenship offers more than sun and scenery. It offers a powerful passport, EU mobility, investment security, and dual nationality options with no need to give up your current citizenship. So if you’re wondering how to get Greek citizenship, read on.
Whether you’re of Greek descent, planning to live long-term in Greece, or seeking a path through investment, our guide explores the key routes to Greek citizenship in 2025 — and how you can legally hold two passports under Greek law.
Citizenship by Greek Descent: A Birthright That Lasts Generations
Who Qualifies Through Ancestry?
If you have Greek roots, you may already be entitled to Greek citizenship — no application necessary. Greek nationality law is based on jus sanguinis, or “right of blood,” meaning that citizenship is passed through family lineage, not place of birth.
You may qualify if:
- You have at least one Greek parent — you are automatically considered a Greek citizen.
- You are the grandchild or great-grandchild of a Greek citizen, and can prove the lineage.
- There is no generational limit, as long as each connection can be legally documented and registered in Greek municipal records.
This makes Greece one of the most generous EU countries in terms of ancestral rights — a clear opportunity for the global Greek diaspora and their descendants.
What You’ll Need
- Birth certificates tracing your lineage from the Greek ancestor to you.
- Marriage certificates for each generation linking parentage.
- Greek registration records (birth or family registry) proving your ancestor held Greek citizenship.
- Apostille stamps on foreign documents.
- Certified Greek translations of all non-Greek documents.
Process and Timeline
If your Greek parent or ancestor was registered in Greece, you can apply to be added to the municipal registry through the nearest Greek consulate abroad. Once registered, you’ll receive a Certificate of Registration, which confirms your status as a Greek citizen. You can then apply for a Greek passport.
This isn’t a traditional application — it’s a confirmation of an existing right. Processing typically takes between 6 to 18 months, depending on how complete and accurate your documentation is.
Residency-Based Citizenship: Earning It Through Naturalization
Who Can Apply?
For those without Greek ancestry, citizenship is still achievable through long-term residence and integration.
Here’s who qualifies:
- Non-EU nationals: After 7 years of continuous legal residence in Greece.
- EU citizens: After just 3 years of residence.
- Recognized refugees or stateless persons: After 3 years of residence.
- Spouses of Greek citizens with a child together: After 3 years of residence.
- Ethnic Greeks (e.g. from Albania, the Black Sea region, or the former USSR): Eligible for a fast-track process.
Language and Integration Requirements
Applicants must prove they are socially and linguistically integrated. Requirements include:
- B1 level proficiency in the Greek language.
- A passing score (80% or higher) on the Greek citizenship exam, which covers:
- History
- Geography
- Greek political institutions
- Culture and traditions
- An interview with a naturalization panel to assess social ties and contributions to Greek society.
Application Steps and Processing Time
To apply, you’ll need:
- Valid passport and residence permit.
- Tax documents and proof of residence.
- Birth certificate with apostille and Greek translation.
- Citizenship exam certificate.
You’ll submit your application to the Civil Status Directorate of your region. The government fee is approximately USD 770.
By law, the process should take 12 months. In practice, it usually takes 2 to 4 years, depending on backlogs and documentation quality. Once approved, you’ll take an oath and become a full Greek and EU citizen.
Path to Citizenship Through Marriage to a Greek National
What Marriage Does — and Doesn’t — Offer
Marriage to a Greek citizen does not automatically make you a citizen — but it can shorten the path.
- You become eligible for a long-term residence permit as the spouse of a Greek citizen.
- If you have a child together, you can apply for citizenship after 3 years of residence in Greece.
- If no child is involved, the standard 7-year residency rule applies.
Requirements and Documentation
- Greek marriage certificate registered with Greek authorities.
- Proof of cohabitation (utility bills, lease agreements, joint bank accounts).
- Clean criminal record.
- Citizenship exam certificate (Greek language and civic knowledge).
Even as a spouse, you must pass the same language and integration requirements as other naturalization applicants. Interviews with immigration officials are common to verify the authenticity of the marriage and your integration into Greek society.
The Golden Visa Route To Greek Citizenship
Greek Residency by Investment
Greece’s Golden Visa program is one of Europe’s most affordable — and popular — residency options. It offers a 5-year renewable residency permit in exchange for qualifying investments.
The most common investment routes include:
- Real estate: Minimum USD 275,000 USD property purchase in most areas.
- In high-demand zones like Athens or Mykonos, the minimum rises to USD 550,000–USD 880,000.
- Bank deposits, business investments, or shares in Greek companies starting at USD 440,000.
Golden Visa holders enjoy visa-free travel within the Schengen Zone, the ability to rent out their properties, and the option to include family members (spouse, children, and parents).
Does It Lead to Citizenship?
Yes — but not directly.
To qualify for Greek citizenship via the investment route, you must:
- Live in Greece for at least 7 years (residency must be physical, not just holding the visa).
- Learn Greek and pass the integration test.
- Show economic and social ties to the country.
So while the Golden Visa offers a path to citizenship, it does not bypass the residency or integration requirements. Think of it as a residency-first program with a future citizenship option.
Exceptional Cases: Citizenship by Honorary Naturalization
In rare cases, Greece may grant citizenship to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the country — often in arts, science, philanthropy, or public service.
This is not an application-based process. The Greek government initiates these cases, with approval coming via a presidential decree. Recent examples include international artists and philanthropists with strong ties to Greece.
This is not a viable route for most individuals but illustrates the government’s discretion in honoring contributions to Greek national interest.
Greece’s Dual Citizenship Policy
Is Dual Citizenship Allowed?
Yes — and proudly so.
Greece permits dual (and multiple) citizenships. This means:
- You do not have to give up your original nationality.
- Greece will not revoke your citizenship if you acquire another.
- Greek-born dual nationals typically retain both nationalities indefinitely.
This policy makes Greek citizenship highly attractive for global citizens and investors — especially those from countries like the US, Canada, or Australia.
Legal Responsibilities of Dual Nationals
As a dual Greek citizen, you are treated as a full Greek citizen in Greece — no exceptions. This includes:
- Voting rights and the ability to hold public office.
- Property ownership and tax obligations.
- Military service for males aged 19–45. (Exemptions and deferments are available for those who live permanently abroad.)
Greek law requires you to use your Greek documents (passport or ID) while dealing with Greek authorities. You cannot rely on your second nationality to bypass Greek legal obligations.
Why Greek Citizenship Is More Accessible Than You Might Think
Greek citizenship is more than a passport — it’s a gateway to the European Union, a powerful tool for mobility, and a meaningful connection to one of the world’s richest cultures.
Whether you qualify by ancestry, residency, marriage, or investment, the process is clear and achievable — especially when guided by experienced professionals. Greece’s acceptance of dual citizenship makes it an ideal option for those seeking global freedom without sacrifice.
At Next Generation Equity, we help clients around the world navigate the process of securing second citizenship through the most suitable program for their goals.
Contact us today to explore your eligibility and take the first step toward European citizenship through Greece.
