Greece's new 2026 migration law: what changed?

With Law 5275/2026, in force since 6 February 2026, Greece broadly updated its migration law. At the same time the stricter property golden visa rules (from 2024) and Law 5226/2025 on irregular stay apply. This article summarises the changes.

1. 3-year permits and more flexibility

• Most residence permits now last 3 years and renew for 3.
• You can now switch permit type while your card is still valid.
• Late renewal is accepted up to 3 months, with a fine of €100 a month.
• Files are automatically assigned to the immigration office with the shortest queue.

2. New visas

• Tech Visa for jobs at startups registered with Elevate Greece.
• A 12-month Talent Visa for graduates of leading universities. Greek work visas
• A 1-year post-study permit, and student permits covering the whole programme. Studying in Greece

3. Golden visa

• New option: €250,000 invested in a startup, creating 2 jobs.
• The 2024 property rules stand: €800k / €400k / €250k, one property of 120 m² and a short-let ban. Greek golden visa
• Proposals to change the property rules are under discussion but are not yet law.

4. Tougher rules on irregular stay

Law 5226/2025 increased penalties for irregular stay and abolished the route to legal status after 7 years of irregular stay. Legal residence from the start matters more than ever.

Our advice

Greece still has southern Europe's only property golden visa, and its work and study routes have improved. If you are thinking about citizenship, plan for real residence and learning Greek from the start. All routes to Greek residency

Based on Law 5275/2026 as published in Greece's official gazette; position as of October 2026.