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UGLOBAL IMMIGRATION MAGAZINE
Introducing new technology in your chosen industry is also
a valid way to prove the positive impact of your business.
Scientific advances and the implementation of the latest
research is a factor that is highly considered. Apart from
domestic labor, the use of Greek suppliers and manufacturers
majorly impacts the Greek economy by supporting already
existing local business owners. If your product can easily
and successfully be exported with a strong demand from
international markets, the more likely it will be considered to
help the national economy as well.
When weighing all those factors and drafting a strong
business plan, the main argument in favor of this route
is that the return on investment is not limited to fixed
factors such as rental income. It is, rather, limitless and
dependent upon the success of the business. Keep in
mind the positive impact on national development and
the economy and you should be good to go. Investment
and immigration consultants can help shape your ideas
into a business plan close to the government standards
so they’re ready to be approved.
It is important to note that the type of business eligible
for investments is quite broad. Both new companies
and existing companies are eligible. You can buy an
established Greek company and build upon that, or set up
an entirely new one.
A few sectors to inspire your research are energy, tourism,
food and beverage, transportation, life sciences and IT.
The most characteristic example would be investing in
solar energy or wind power, a very lucrative sector in
Greece due to the favorable climate and technological
know- how. Tourism is also inherently a ver y Greek
investment, as hospitality has been embedded in Greek
culture for thousands of years. After all, the shortage
in tourist accommodations is a factor that allowed the
short-term rental industry to flourish.
RECENT PROGRAM UPDATES
Recently, Greece has added new investment options
starting from 400,000 euros. The program has added
eight new investment routes for non-European citizens
intended for investors to contribute to the country’s
development and stimulate the national economy.
Options include buying shares or bond loans in a Greek
company or a company listed on the Greek stock
market, contribute to a real estate investment company
with a mission to only invest in Greece, invest in Greek
government bonds for at least three years or purchasing
shares in Greek mutual funds.
On whichever route you may wish to follow, Greece can
accommodate almost every kind of international investor and
has set up a legal framework to simplify the process and help
investors succeed.
MARY TSIGANOU
Mary Tsiganou is vice president of Energopiisi SA Investment
Consulting Services, based in Athens. She has been with
the firm since 2011. As a Greek Golden Visa investment
consultant, Tsiganou has expertise in Greece’s technicalities
and bureaucracy. She can guide clients toward an efficient and
straightforward way to invest in the country successfully. Her
studies in law and economics, along with her 30 years of work
experience for a national bank, ensure high-quality services for
her foreign clients’ investment endeavors.