If you are a non-EU national exploring ways to live in Greece legally, you have likely
heard of the Greek Golden Visa. For many years, it has been one of Europe’s most
attractive residence-by-investment programs.
However, due to the recent increase in property investment thresholds, applicants
are now actively searching for a Golden Visa alternative—and the FIP Visa
(Financially Independent Person Visa) has become one of the most appealing
options.
In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about the FIP Visa vs Golden
Visa in Greece, so you can choose the residency program that best fits your goals.
What Is the FIP (Financially Independent Person Residence Permit) Visa in
Greece?
The FIP Visa Greece is a residence permit designed for individuals who have stable
passive income from abroad, such as pensions, dividends, savings, or rental income.
Unlike the Golden Visa, no real-estate investment is required.
The FIP Visa is ideal for retirees, remote workers with foreign employers, and
individuals who want to live in Greece without committing to a high-value property
purchase.
What Is the Golden Visa in Greece?
The Greek Golden Visa is a long-term residence permit granted to non-EU nationals
who invest in real estate or other eligible assets. The Golden Visa is best suited for
investors who want access to Greece and the EU without living in the country full-
time.
FIP Visa vs Golden Visa: Key Differences
| Criteria | FIP Visa | Golden Visa |
| Investment Required | No investment | €400k–€800k in real estate, exceptionally €250k |
| Minimum Income | €3,500/month from abroad | None |
| Permit Duration | 3 years | 5 years |
| Physical Presence | Yes (minimum stay 6 months per year) | No minimum stay |
| Family Reunification | Yes | Yes |
| Work Rights | No employment or provision of services within Greece. | No employment or provision of services within Greece. |
| Ideal for | People who want to live in Greece affordably | Investors who want access without relocating |
Why is the FIP Visa a Strong Alternative to the Golden Visa?
Many applicants are now choosing theFIP Visa over the Golden Visa due to its:
- Much Lower Cost: No need to invest €400,000–€800,000 in property.
The only requirement is proving sufficient passive income. - Easier Supporting Documents: The process for the FIP Visa is relatively
straightforward and less dependent on complicated real-estate transactions or
notarial procedures. - Excellent for Long-Term Relocation: If your goal is to actually live in Greece, the
FIP Visa offers long-term residency for the whole family. It permits visa-free travel
throughout the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. It does
not grant the right to work or reside permanently in other Schengen countries besides
Greece. - Flexibility: You can rent a home, move cities, or relocate within Greece without any
investment obligations.
When the Golden Visa Might Be Better?
The Golden Visa remains the best choice if you want a residence permit without
living in Greece and a real-estate investment as part of your wealth portfolio. It is
particularly attractive to investors, especially those not planning full-time relocation.
Who Should Choose FIP Visa?
The FIP Visa is ideal for:
• Retirees with pension income
• Remote workers / digital nomads employed by foreign companies
• Individuals with foreign passive income
• People who want to relocate to Greece at low cost
• Families who want legal residence without the need for large investments
