By Greek City Times Staff December 26, 2025
Foreign direct investment (FDI) in Greece's real estate sector has seen a significant drop in 2025, falling to just 17% of total foreign investments in the first nine months of the year, according to Bank of Greece data.
Huge Drop in Foreign Investment Sparks Caution in Greek Realestate
In the January-September period of 2025, inflows into property amounted to approximately €1.46 billion, marking a 24% decline from €1.925 billion in the same period of 2024. The third quarter alone saw a steeper 32.7% drop, with €527 million invested compared to €783.7 million the previous year.
This reduction comes against a backdrop of surging overall FDI into the Greek economy, reaching €8.6 billion in the first nine months—driving down real estate's share from 34% in the first half and around 46% for the full year 2024.
The slowdown is largely attributed to changes in the Golden Visa program, which had fueled record highs in recent years.
In 2024, the property market attracted a historic €2.75 billion in foreign capital, surpassing the 2023 record of €2.13 billion. That year also saw a peak in Golden Visa applications, with 9,411 initial investor submissions—an 11% increase from 2023's 8,477.
The trend reversed in 2025, particularly after April, when the final transitional deadline expired for securing permits under the old, lower investment thresholds. Higher minimums (up to €800,000 in high-demand areas) and restrictions have cooled speculative buying.
Market experts note a shift toward longer-term investments, with foreign buyers increasingly focusing on developments in tourism, logistics, and residential projects rather than quick-residency-driven purchases.
While the real estate sector adjusts to this new equilibrium, broader FDI growth in other areas—such as healthcare and technology—highlights Greece's diversifying appeal to international investors.
Golden Visa Loophole: How Investors Secure Residency for €250,000
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