Greece Introduces New Cash Declaration System and Secures Top Spot in Global Residency Rankings
Starting 1 August 2025, Greece will launch a nationwide online system for declaring cash at all customs points, reducing wait times and ...
Greece’s Border Reform: Digital Cash Declarations from August 2025
From the first of August 2025, travellers entering or leaving Greece will find a smoother, more efficient customs experience. The Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) has announced a fully digital cash declaration system to be rolled out across all customs offices and 42 entry and exit points, covering land borders, international airports, and major seaports.
Gone are the days of lengthy queues and cumbersome paperwork. Computer terminals will be available on-site to assist passengers in completing their online declaration. Customs officers will also be on hand to guide travellers through the process if needed. Paper forms will only be accepted in the rare case of a technical outage.
Under EU regulations, anyone carrying €10,000 or more—whether in cash or equivalent value in negotiable instruments or high-purity gold—must declare it. This includes gold coins with at least 90% purity and gold bars of no less than 99.5% purity. Failure to declare could result in administrative seizure of the funds and substantial fines.
This digital reform is not merely about convenience. It strengthens the fight against money laundering, terrorism financing, and illicit capital flows, all while enhancing the country’s financial security and international compliance.
Greece Overtakes Portugal as the No.1 Golden Visa Destination
In a significant shift, Greece has claimed the top position in Henley & Partners’ 2025 Global Residence Program Index, earning a score of 73 and ending Portugal’s nine-year reign. This ranking reflects Greece’s strengths in safety, education, healthcare, and the rule of law.
Launched in 2013, the Greek Golden Visa offers permanent residency to non-EU investors and their families with a remarkably low entry threshold—purchasing property worth at least €250,000. There are no requirements for language skills, age, or professional background, and residency cards can be renewed every five years.
This combination of affordability, speed, and flexibility makes Greece an attractive alternative to more restrictive programmes in countries such as Portugal, Spain, or Malta.
Why Greece is Winning Over Global Investors
Simple Entry Requirements
With just a €250,000 property purchase, investors can secure permanent residency for themselves, their children, and both sets of parents. There are no residency obligations, allowing complete freedom of movement.
Quality of Life
Greece offers pristine air quality, abundant sunshine, and a Mediterranean lifestyle. Food safety standards meet strict EU regulations, ensuring a healthy diet for residents.
Unrestricted Travel
As a member of both the EU and the Schengen Area, Greek residency allows visa-free travel to 29 countries. This makes it an ideal base for those seeking to live, work, or invest across Europe.
Education Opportunities
Greece’s public education is free, and its international schools offer globally recognised programmes like the IB at a fraction of the cost in the UK or China. University options are strong, and residency holders’ children may also benefit from preferential admissions to top Chinese universities under the Overseas Chinese quota.
Comprehensive Welfare & Healthcare
Residents enjoy nationwide healthcare coverage, with options for private insurance and treatment reimbursement up to 80%. The country’s welfare system also provides unemployment benefits, child allowances, and pensions covering 84% of pre-retirement net income.
Conclusion: A Compelling Case for Greece
Greece’s dual momentum—modernising its border control with a new cash declaration system while securing global recognition for its residency programme—makes it a standout choice for investors in 2025. The Golden Visa’s low threshold, combined with exceptional lifestyle benefits and European mobility, positions Greece as not just a gateway to the EU, but a destination worth calling home.
For those seeking security, opportunity, and Mediterranean charm, Greece now stands firmly at the top of the list.
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