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Monthly Archives: March 2025

March 30, 2025

A Comprehensive Guide to Buying Property in Greece: Taxes and Associated Fees

Purchasing property in Greece is an exciting venture, whether for investment, relocation, or leisure. However, it’s essential to understand the various expenses involved beyond the purchase price. This guide breaks down the taxes, fees, and costs you’ll encounter when buying a house in Greece, ensuring you are well-prepared to navigate the process.

Taxes on Property Purchase in Greece

The starting point for calculating most expenses is the commercial value of the property, which is determined by the local tax authority based on factors like location, size, and condition. This value is used to calculate various taxes and fees, including:

Property Tax

Property tax is progressive, ranging from 0% to 1% of the property’s market value.

Property Transfer Tax

A property transfer tax of 3.09% is charged on the higher of the market or objective value of the property.

Municipal Taxes

Local governments charge taxes to cover services like waste management, road maintenance, and street lighting. These taxes typically range from 0.025% to 0.035% of the property’s commercial value.

VAT (Value-Added Tax)

A VAT of 24% applies to some professional services involved in property transactions, such as those provided by lawyers, notaries, and estate agents.

Additional Fees for Property Purchase:

In addition to taxes, various professional services and administrative costs contribute to the overall expense of buying a property in Greece.

Registration Fees

Charged by the local land registry, these fees typically range from 0.2% to 0.5% of the property’s commercial value.

Bank Fees

If financing through a Greek bank, expect additional costs for loan application, appraisal, processing, and disbursement. These vary by bank and loan amount.

Building Permit Fees

For those planning to construct a property, permits cost 1% to 3% of the total construction expense.

Lawyer’s Fees

Hiring a lawyer is crucial for navigating Greek property law and ensuring a smooth transaction. Fees are typically 1% to 2% of the property’s commercial value, plus VAT.

Notary Fees:

Notarization is mandatory for transferring property ownership. Notary fees are around 1% to 2% of the property’s commercial value.

Power of Attorney

If you cannot attend the notary appointment in person, granting power of attorney to a representative costs approximately 1% to 2% of the property value.

Estate Agent’s Fees

Real estate agents typically charge a minimum of 2% of the property’s purchase price, plus VAT.

Summary of Costs:

Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses when purchasing property in Greece:

Expense Cost Notes
Lawyer’s Fee 1.5% of property value + 24% VAT For legal assistance during the purchase process
Notary’s Fee 1.5% of property value + 24% VAT For notarizing the purchase agreement
Transfer Tax 3.09% of property value Paid to transfer the property title
Estate Agent’s Fee Min 2% of purchase price + 24% VAT For the agent’s services
Registration Fees 0.6% of property value For registering the property in the Land Registry
Municipal Taxes Varies by location Annual fee paid to the local municipality
Property Tax 0% to 1% of market value Annual tax based on the commercial value
VAT 24% Applied to certain fees and services

Get Expert Guidance

Purchasing property in Greece involves various expenses and legal formalities. A knowledgeable property lawyer and an experienced estate agent can help you navigate the complexities, ensuring a smooth and secure transaction.

If you’re considering buying real estate in Greece or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to contact us for expert advice and assistance.

Investing in Greek real estate is a rewarding endeavor, and understanding these costs ensures a well-informed and seamless purchasing experience.

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📞 Contact Indian Immigration Lawyer Prashant Ajmera Today:
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The author of this article is Mr. Prashant Ajmera, an Indian immigration lawyer and Canadian citizen. He is the founder of Ajmera Law Group and the author of two books, “Millionaires On The Book” and “How to Plan for Your Child’s Foreign Education.” Over the past 30 years, he has assisted and advised over 30,000 students and families on planning their foreign education and settlement. He regularly speaks at various forums on this subject.

Ajmera Law Group: Mo: +91 9974253030 | info@ajmeralaw.com | www.ajmeralaw.com

March 21, 2025

Navigating the EB-5 Visa Program Amidst Recent U.S. Immigration Policies

📜 In recent weeks, the U.S. immigration landscape has experienced significant shifts due to new executive orders issued by President Donald Trump. These directives have introduced changes affecting various immigration programs, leading to uncertainty among prospective immigrants. However, it’s important to note that the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program continues to remain a viable pathway for those seeking U.S. residency through investment.

Recent Immigration Directives

On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed several executive orders aimed at restructuring U.S. immigration policies. These orders focus on enhancing border security, revising asylum procedures, and implementing stricter vetting processes for visa applicants. The administration’s intent is to prioritize national security and ensure that immigration programs align with these objectives.

The EB-5 Program: Stability Amidst Change

Despite the evolving immigration policies, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program has not been targeted by these recent executive actions. This program allows foreign investors to obtain U.S. permanent residency by investing $800,000 in a U.S. business that creates at least 10 full-time jobs for American workers. The program’s focus on economic development and job creation aligns with the administration’s goals of strengthening the U.S. economy.

Why the EB-5 Program Remains Unaffected

The EB-5 program’s emphasis on substantial investment and job creation distinguishes it from other immigration pathways. By contributing to economic growth, EB-5 investors play a crucial role in supporting U.S. communities, making the program less susceptible to restrictive immigration policies. This stability offers reassurance to potential investors considering the EB-5 visa as a route to U.S. residency. The present EB5 program is passed by US congress and hence it is not affected by recent talk by President Trump about US Golden Card with Investment of 5 Million dollars. 

Moving Forward with Confidence

For individuals and families contemplating the EB-5 program, it’s essential to stay informed about current immigration policies and seek guidance from experienced immigration professionals. While the broader immigration landscape may be shifting, the EB-5 program continues to provide a reliable pathway to U.S. permanent residency through investment and job creation.

Conclusion

In light of recent immigration directives, the EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program stands as a steadfast option for those aiming to achieve U.S. residency. Its focus on economic contribution and alignment with national interests ensures its continuity amidst policy changes. Prospective investors are encouraged to pursue this opportunity with confidence, knowing that the EB-5 program remains a viable and stable pathway to the American dream.

For more information and legal advse:

📞 Contact Indian Immigration Lawyer Prashant Ajmera of Ajmera Law Group:
📱 Mobile: +91 99742 53030 | 📧 Email: info@ajmeralaw.com | 🌐 Website: www.ajmeralaw.com

📢 Legal Disclaimer: Immigration and visa matters are legal issues. Only an Indian lawyer can provide the appropriate legal advice in India.

March 11, 2025

CYPRUS BUSINESS IMMIGRATION PROGRAM – LEADING TO CYPRUS CITIZENSHIP IN 3-4 YEARS

Relocating to a European Union (EU) country while leveraging your business and investment acumen is a dream for many entrepreneurs and executives. The Cyprus Business Immigration Program offers a seamless pathway to achieving this goal by granting residency and work permits to eligible applicants, ultimately leading to Cypriot citizenship within 3-4 years.

What is the Cyprus Business Immigration Program?

The Cyprus Business Immigration Program is specifically designed to attract businesspeople and their families who are genuinely committed to relocating and contributing to the Cypriot economy. This program caters to individuals seeking to:

  • Establish or expand their business in Cyprus
  • Obtain a European Union passport
  • Enjoy the benefits of living and working in an EU country

This program is ideal for business owners, senior executives, middle management professionals, and investors.

Key Features of the Program

  • Temporary residency permits for applicants and their families
  • Permission to live and work in Cyprus
  • Renewable residency permits every two years (provided the business remains active)
  • Eligibility to apply for Cypriot citizenship after 3-4 years

Step-by-Step Process

The program is straightforward and involves the following steps:

  1. Establish a Cyprus Company

Applicants must set up a Cyprus-based company that will serve as the foundation for their residency application.

  1. Register the Company as a Foreign Interest Entity

Key requirements for registration include:

  • Foreign Shareholding: The company must have at least 51% foreign ownership.
  • Investment: A minimum of €200,000 must be allocated to the company. This amount is not required to be paid immediately. By registering the company with a share capital of €200,000, applicants have 1-1.5 years to fulfill this obligation.
  • Office Space: The company must maintain offices in Cyprus. Office space can be rented through local firms, including our own.
  1. Apply for Residency and Work Permits

Residency and work permits can be granted to shareholders and key personnel. Key requirements include:

  • Employees must earn a minimum salary of €2,500 per month.
  • Employer’s liability insurance and other supporting documents are necessary.
  1. Apply for Residency Permits for Family Members

Residency permits can also be extended to immediate family members, including spouses and children. Notably, the spouse of the applicant is allowed to work in Cyprus.

  1. Maintain Active Residency

Residency permits are renewable indefinitely as long as the company remains operational.

  1. Apply for Cypriot Citizenship

After residing in Cyprus for 3-4 years under the program, applicants become eligible to apply for Cypriot nationality, granting them all the privileges of EU citizenship.

Why Choose Cyprus?

Cyprus offers a wealth of advantages for individuals and families relocating under this program:

  • Strategic Location: Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus provides excellent access to global markets.
  • Favorable Tax System: Cyprus has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU and offers numerous tax incentives.
  • High Quality of Life: Renowned for its safe environment, excellent healthcare, and vibrant culture, Cyprus is an ideal destination for families.
  • EU Benefits: As an EU citizen, you gain the right to live, work, and study anywhere in the European Union.

Ready to Begin Your Journey?

If you’re an active businessperson considering relocation, the Cyprus Business Immigration Program provides an exceptional opportunity to unlock European residency and citizenship. From establishing your company to navigating the application process, our experienced team of immigration lawyers in Cyprus is here to guide you every step of the way.

Contact Indian Immigration Lawyer Prashant Ajmera today to start your journey toward European residency and citizenship! Mo: +91 9974253030 | Email: info@ajmeralaw.com | www.ajmeralaw.com

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