Greece is a large country with a rich civilization and history, and it is one of the most important tourist destinations in the world. Greece ranks thirteenth among European countries in terms of area, and it is a top-tier tourist destination.
This is because Greece boasts a collection of beaches overlooking the Mediterranean coast, a variety of beautiful coastal islands, and also due to the ancient Greek civilization's rich heritage, which is considered one of the most famous civilizations in history.
In this article, we will discuss Greek nationality and whether foreigners can obtain it. If you are interested in acquiring Greek nationality, continue reading this important article until the end.
Greek Nationality
Due to the significant value that Greek nationality offers its holder, many people attempt to acquire it. There are two main ways to obtain Greek nationality: either by proving descent or through investment.
Any person who can prove their Greek descent or origin can apply for Greek nationality, even if they were born in Greece. However, regarding Greek nationality through investment, it is worth mentioning that there is no program that allows foreigners to obtain Greek nationality directly through investment. However, investors can obtain residency in Greece, and from there, they can later acquire nationality.
Below, we will try to explore both methods and the conditions for each to obtain Greek nationality. But first, let’s learn about the advantages and disadvantages of acquiring Greek nationality.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Acquiring Greek Nationality
Everything in life has its pros and cons, and this applies to Greek nationality as well. It is not just an investment. Acquiring Greek nationality has both advantages and disadvantages, but let's first talk about the positive aspects.
Advantages of Acquiring Greek Nationality
Some of the advantages of acquiring Greek nationality include:
- Acquiring a Greek passport, which is currently ranked fourth among the strongest passports globally. In addition to obtaining an EU passport, the Greek passport allows visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival to approximately 190 countries and covers about 90% of the world's countries.
- The ability to reside, work, and study legally, and the freedom to travel throughout Europe and the Schengen Area.
- The possibility of traveling and spending weekends freely between EU countries.
- A very good quality of life in Greece.
- Good education and healthcare services in Greece.
Disadvantages of Greek Nationality
Some of the disadvantages of acquiring Greek nationality include:
- The mandatory military service system, which many people do not prefer. However, there are ways to delay or exempt from compulsory military service in Greece.
- There is no possibility of obtaining Greek nationality directly through investment; instead, it requires a period through the residency system. Additionally, obtaining Greek nationality through descent is available only for men aged 19 to 45. Men in this age group must join the army and serve for nine months. If you wish to bring your spouse, you must go through the residency process to obtain nationality.
Now that we have learned about the main advantages and disadvantages of Greek nationality, we will begin discussing the two main ways to acquire Greek nationality:
- Through descent.
- Through investment.
Greek Nationality Through Descent
Any person of Greek descent born outside of Greece has the legal right to obtain Greek nationality through at least one parent or grandparent born in Greece.
Citizens from outside the European Union are likely to use this option because it allows them to live and work in the European Union, whether in Greece or elsewhere.
Citizens of the European Union who are not Greek do not need to apply for dual nationality through descent because there is already freedom of movement and mobility between EU member countries without restrictions, conditions, or visas.
Who is Eligible for Greek Nationality Through Descent?
The individuals eligible for Greek nationality through descent are:
- A child born in Greece to at least one Greek parent.
- A child born outside Greece to at least one Greek parent.
- A grandchild born outside Greece with proof of at least one grandparent of Greek origin.
