9/2/2026
The Greek real estate market started 2026 on a particularly strong note, with foreign direct investment in property recording a remarkable 43.4% year-on-year increase during the first quarter.
According to data from the Bank of Greece, foreign capital inflows into the Greek real estate sector reached €511.6 million between January and March 2026, compared with €356.8 million during the same period last year.
What makes this growth particularly noteworthy is that it came alongside a significant decline in Golden Visa applications. During the first quarter of 2026, applications fell to 1,677, compared with 3,507 in the first quarter of 2025 — a decrease of more than 50%.
The figures suggest an important shift in the Greek property market. While the Golden Visa program has historically played a significant role in attracting international buyers, current investment activity indicates that many foreign purchasers are increasingly motivated by the property itself rather than primarily by residency opportunities.
International buyers continue to seek a wide range of properties across Greece. Demand remains strong for luxury residences in Attica and the Greek islands, while newly built holiday homes in the €400,000–€600,000 price rangeare also attracting considerable interest in several regions of the country.
A substantial share of this demand comes from buyers outside the European Union, including investors from the United States, the Middle East and the United Kingdom.
Although the Golden Visa program continues to be an important factor for some international investors, relatively few buyers are currently combining their property purchase with a residence permit, even when they meet the relevant investment requirements.
This development highlights the broader appeal of the Greek real estate market. Strong tourism performance, lifestyle appeal, rising property values and the availability of high-quality residential developments continue to make Greece an attractive destination for international capital.
If the current trend continues throughout 2026, the latest figures could signal a further strengthening of Greece's position as one of Europe's most attractive real estate markets for international buyers.
Source: https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/real-estate/1308266/property-fdi-jumped-43-4-in-q1/