18.11.2024
Search these terms online and you will get all sorts of scary answers. For example, “purchases are often impossible for border areas of Greece,” or “purchase is permitted only to those (individuals and legal entities) who have Greek nationality".
In reality, the process of buying in a border area in Greece is not as scary as some sources online make it out to be. However, if you are a non-EU resident, you should be aware of the few extra steps required in the process, when compared to buying in the rest of Greece. We will explain the process in detail below.
This article is for buyers from OUTSIDE the EU. For buyers inside the EU, no extra permit is required for buying a home in a border region.
Some of the most beautiful areas of Greece are near the border areas. Border region areas in Greece include the islands of the East Aegean, the Dodecanese Islands, Rhodes, Lesvos, Karpathos, and Chios.
Note that even some islands which are not close to the borders, like Astypalaia, are also included. On the mainland, areas classified as border regions include Evros, Thesprotia, Kastoria, Kilkis, Xanthi, Preveza, Rodopi, Florina, and Evros.
The Dodecanese islands are a Greek island group located on the southeastern side of the Aegean Sea, close to Turkey. The name Dodecanese means “the twelve islands” in Greek, as this is the number of the largest islands of the complex.
The most popular island of the Dodecanese chain is Rhodes, famous for its beautiful Old Town, wonderful beaches, and lush green nature. Very popular areas to buy a home in the Dedecannese are also Samos, Kos, and Karpathos, because they are small beautiful islands that are great for relaxing holidays.
Among the islands included in Greece's border regions are Chios, Lesvos, Limnos, and Samothraki.
Chios is an island in the North Aegean that is popular for homebuyers in Greece because of its beaches and its mastic trees; the resin they produce (called ‘tears of the gods’) has a healing effect and is also delicious to eat and drink. In addition, the 20 medieval mastic villages are incredible works of art which are not to be missed.
Samothraki or Samothrace is one of the Greece’s most difficult islands to get to and is known for its beautiful nature. This is supposedly where Alexander the Great was conceived. It is a paradise for nature lovers and is known for its tall chestnut trees that are 500 years old, some of which have trunks at least two meters wide.
Samothraki is also one of the longest continually inhabited islands in Greece. It was one of Ancient Greece’s religious centers and at Therma, you can find hot mineral baths.
Lesvos is Greece’s third-largest island. It is known for its olive oil and ouzo, the national spirit of Greece that is flavored with anise. The most popular pairings with ouzo on Lesvos are meze plates like anchovies, roasted scallops and grilled octopus. Traditional dishes on the island of Lesvos include stuffed onions with meat and rice, sponge with zucchini, and meatballs with ouzo.
You will need to gather certain documents, which are listed below, along with an apostille stamp. The permit request is then submitted to a special committee for approval.
These types of permits are just a formality, especially for citizens from the UK, US, Canada, and other large countries outside of the EU. However, the application process adds time to buying a home in Greece. The amount of time needed to review the permit varies based on the office where your permit request was submitted, and can take several months.
Several of the documents required to submit your request are already included in the process of purchasing a home in Greece. The exact documents required may vary based on the office where your permit request is submitted.
A short CV in Greek, with certified translation
A copy of your valid passport certified by a competent authority or a lawyer
Your criminal record certificate, with certified translation
A Residence Permit (if you declare as a resident of Greece or another EU country)
Property details (description, purpose of purchase, and topographical map of the property)
Birth certificate, with certified translation
Signature from the seller
We recommend partnering with a local real estate specialist or lawyer to help prepare and submit your documents. Elxis - At Home in Greece has over 30 years of experience in the buying and selling of homes in Greece, including the border permit application process. For a non-committal consultation, reach out to us here.
Areas of military interest in Greece also need an extra permit. These areas are treated very similarly to border regions, but the main difference is that all home buyers (whether you are from inside or outside the EU) need to apply. It is also a shorter process, usually needing two to three weeks. We will cover this topic in a separate article.
13.05.2026
“I need to be a Greek citizen to buy a home in Greece, right?” “Don't I need a Greek bank account to buy a home in Greece?” “I signed a Private Purchase Agreement... does that mean I own the house now?” In this article, we present the most common misconceptions we hear from clients. Keep in mind, this is perfectly normal if you're buying a home in Greece for the first time!
12.05.2026
I want to buy a home in Greece, but I don’t know anything about the process. Who will I work with when buying a home in Greece? If I don’t speak Greek, will someone help me with the documents? Do I need a lawyer, a real estate agent, or an engineer? Which of these contacts do I need to have in Greece before I start the process of buying a home?
When buying property in Greece, you will typically work with a real estate agent, a buyer’s lawyer, who is a key participant in drawing up and signing the purchase deed in collaboration with the notary, and a notary. The notary office is the expert entity for notarial acts and legal services related to property transactions, including property conveyancing, document formalization, and legal consultancy, as well as notarial acts and legal services for documents intended for use abroad, addressing cross-border requirements such as translations and legalization. The office serves as the professional space where legal and notarial services are conducted, such as signing, verification, and consultations. Understanding all the costs involved, such as notary fees, transfer taxes, and legal fees, is crucial to avoid surprises and ensure a smooth transaction. These professionals are essential for both individuals and businesses looking to invest in Greek real estate.
Buyers, whether private individuals or commercial entities, often require guidance to navigate the Greek notary system, understand the legal framework, and ensure all necessary documents and legal requirements are met. Greece is a popular destination for international clients, including those seeking a golden visa through real estate investment. This is especially important for international clients who may not be familiar with the local language or the digital systems now supporting notarial acts in Greece. The contract for property transactions is always drafted in Greek, so a translator is required for non-Greek speakers. The process and role of notaries can differ from those in other countries, so expert guidance is highly recommended. Notaries in Greece also provide services related to wills, which are important for estate planning and succession.
11.05.2026
In recent years, buying a second home in Greece has become especially popular, driven by the steady growth of the real estate market and increased interest from investors. This growth is supported by Greece's economic recovery and government incentives, making it an attractive investment opportunity. The rise of home rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO has further fueled demand. Greece offers something for every lifestyle, with a diverse range of property types including modern apartments in vibrant city centers, luxury villas on the islands, and family-friendly homes in the mainland regions. As a popular tourist destination, Greece attracts both buyers and investors seeking lifestyle benefits, strong rental income potential, and long-term appreciation. The country's warm hospitality and high quality of life further enhance the experience of owning a second home here.
16.04.2026
In this comprehensive guide to buying a home in Greece, we will cover the entire process of buying a home in Greece, including where to buy a home in Greece, what types of homes you can buy in Greece, the documents needed, the legal process of buying a Greek home, and also frequently asked questions.
- Trustworthy: Elxis has over 30 years of experience buying, selling, and performing all legal procedures for the purchase and sale of properties in Greece. The information in this guide comes directly from our team of lawyers and real estate consultants, so you don’t need to think twice about the credibility of the information.
- Up to Date: Most similar guides you will find on the internet have old information about tax rates, documentation, and legal processes. This buyer’s guide is continually updated as the rules and regulations in Greece change, so you don’t have to wonder if anything is out of date by the time you start your home search.
- Optimized for English Speakers: Many similar guides are translated from Greek to English, and as a result, some of the meaning is lost in translation. This guide is written 100% by native English speakers and proofed by native Dutch and German speakers, so the information is clear and understandable, no matter where you’re reading from.
29.12.2025
You have bought your home in Greece and are wondering how to add utilities such as electricity, water and internet to your property? In this article we explain exactly how to add utilities to your home in Greece.
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23.06.2025
In Greece, time seems to move with the rhythm of nature, and nothing captures that better than an olive tree. Long considered a symbol of peace, wisdom, and longevity, olive trees have been at the heart of Greek life for thousands of years. In 2025, owning a home with an olive grove isn’t just a romantic dream. It’s a real, tangible investment that offers lifestyle value, financial potential, and a deep connection to the land.
