June 1, 2026

Greek Golden Visa 2026: backlog under 42,000 — processing times and proposed reforms

The Greek Golden Visa enters 2026 with visible progress on its backlog and a new draft law aimed at clearing years of accumulated delay. If you're considering an application — or already filed one — here is where the programme really stands.

The backlog today

From a peak of 49,000+ pending applications in July 2025, the backlog has fallen to 42,390 by November 2025 — down more than 4% in a single month.

In parallel:

88% of 2023 applications have been processed.
Half of the 2024 filings have been processed.
From April 2025 onward, monthly approvals have exceeded new applications every month.

The average wait time has dropped to a 14-month low.

Realistic approval timelines

With current throughput:

Well-structured case (complete file, experienced legal team): 4-6 months from biometrics to card.
Standard application: 6-9 months.
Incomplete documentation or a high-volume regional office: 9-12+ months.

A 30-40% improvement vs. last year — but don't plan around "three months". It is unrealistic today.

What the new law (January 2026) changes

The bill introduced in January 2026 targets three areas:

Backdated permits: fixing cases where the residence period was counted from a date prior to card issuance, reducing the holder's actual stay credit.
Faster renewals and family reunification — a separate, streamlined track for existing holders.
Targeted backlog reduction at offices with the largest queues.

What it means for prospective investors

Preparation: a complete file before submission. Each missing document adds 2-4 months.
Property selection: alongside the higher thresholds (€800k / €400k / €250k by zone), make sure the property has no unauthorised modifications — the single most common source of delay.
A lawyer with Golden Visa-specific experience, not a general real estate attorney.

What it means for existing applicants

2023 filings: 88% have a decision. If yours doesn't, ask your lawyer to request a status update from the competent authority.
2024 filings: half processed. If you've completed biometrics but the card is delayed, the blue confirmation covers residence and Schengen travel.
2025-2026 filings: realistic horizon of 6-12 months, shortening as the backlog drops.

Bottom line

The programme is performing better than it has in the last three years, but it is not yet "fast". Good preparation and an experienced team remain the main levers for speed.

Sources:

Information current as of May 2026. Times vary with legal-team experience and file quality.