Greece Unveils New Fast-Track Citizenship Program Targeting Wealthy American Entrepreneurs
ATHENS, Greece — In a strategic move to attract international entrepreneurs and diversify its economic base, Greece has expanded its famed “golden” visa program, offering a new fast-track citizenship pathway that targets wealthy Americans eager to invest in the country’s burgeoning startup ecosystem. This initiative marks a significant departure from the traditional model of residency-by-investment programs that primarily relied on real estate purchases.
Under the revamped scheme, applicants can secure citizenship by investing approximately $259,000 in startups registered on Greece’s National Startup Registry. Eligible sectors include real estate, defense, and finance, reflecting the government’s ambition to foster innovation and position Greece as a leading innovation hub in Southeast Europe. This approach is facilitated through Elevate Greece (EG), the official platform that promotes collaboration between public and private sectors to drive entrepreneurship and global market expansion.
According to the Elevate Greece website, the program is designed to cultivate a “strong culture of innovation and entrepreneurship,” which the government sees as vital to economic growth and competitiveness. By pivoting from passive real estate investments to active participation in startups, Greece aims to attract a new class of investors who can contribute to the country’s technological and financial sectors.
For many Americans, the appeal of second citizenship has grown amid rising global uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. Wealthy individuals increasingly view such programs as a form of insurance, providing greater mobility and security. This trend has fueled demand for “golden” visas worldwide, but it has also raised concerns among U.S. officials about security risks and relaxed vetting standards. The Department of Homeland Security has previously warned about potential vulnerabilities in these programs, emphasizing the need for stringent oversight.
Greece’s initiative arrives as other countries reassess their own investment-based citizenship schemes. By focusing on startups, Greece is “playing to win” in the global competition for tech money and entrepreneurial talent, experts say. The program not only offers residency but also a pathway to full citizenship, a rare feature that significantly enhances its attractiveness.
Applicants must demonstrate their investment in eligible startups, which are vetted and listed on the National Startup Registry. This registry ensures transparency and alignment with sectors prioritized by the government. The program’s structure encourages active engagement in Greece’s economic development rather than passive asset ownership.
While the program targets wealthy Americans, it also reflects broader trends in global migration and investment. Countries worldwide are adapting their “golden” visa offerings to attract innovation-driven capital rather than solely real estate buyers. Greece’s model could serve as a blueprint for others seeking to balance economic benefits with national security and sustainable growth.
For Americans interested in exploring this opportunity, detailed information is available through official Greek government portals and the U.S. government’s resources on foreign investment. As global mobility continues to evolve, programs like Greece’s expanded golden visa could reshape how entrepreneurs and investors approach citizenship and residency.
Experts note that while the program offers promising prospects, applicants should carefully consider legal and financial implications and consult with immigration professionals. The rise of such pathways underscores the dynamic interplay between global economic trends and national immigration policies, highlighting the increasing importance of innovation-led investment in shaping the future of international residency programs.
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