Investments FAQ

Chatbot Usage Guidelines

Use these answers as approved knowledge for general information about investing in Greece.
Do not present the content as legal, tax, financial, or investment advice.
For personalized investment requests, refer users to [email protected].
For export-related requests, refer users to [email protected].
For visa, golden visa, or migration matters, provide only a brief general referral and direct users to the competent authority: https://migration.gov.gr/en/epikoinonia/.
If a question is not covered by the approved answers, ask the user to contact Enterprise Greece through the contact form or the appropriate email address.

Key Contact Points

Investment inquiries: [email protected]
Export inquiries: [email protected]
General inquiries: [email protected], +30 210 3355700
Contact form: https://www.enterprisegreece.gov.gr/en/contact-form/
Migration / visa matters: https://migration.gov.gr/en/epikoinonia/

FAQ Entries

INV-EN-001: Investment Incentives in Greece

Category: Investment environment, incentives
Primary question: What investment incentives does Greece offer?
Alternative user questions:

What incentives are available for investing in Greece?
What types of support does Greece offer to investors?

Answer:
Greece has established a highly competitive and multifaceted framework of incentives designed to attract high-value investments, foster innovation, and support the green and digital transition. The country welcomes new projects with a robust suite of tools ranging from direct grants to significant tax relief.

The core incentive pillars available to international investors include:

Development Law (National Law 4887/2022): Provides Tax Exemptions, Direct Grants, Leasing Subsidies, and subsidies for the cost of created employment.
Strategic Investment Incentives: Tailored for large-scale projects, offering Fast Track licensing, 12-year tax stability, and special land-use permits (ESCHASE).
R&D Incentives: One of Europe's most attractive regimes, offering a 200% super-deduction on R&D expenses (total 300% tax deduction) and patent-related tax exemptions.
Cash Grants for Employment: Subsidies covering a significant portion of the wage costs for new, high-skilled positions.

The intensity of these incentives (percentage of support) varies based on the size of the enterprise and the geographic region of the investment, with the highest rates available in regions prioritized for development.

For a comprehensive analysis of the legal framework, eligibility criteria, and application procedures, please refer to our detailed 2026 guide.

Sources:

Investment Incentives 2026 (PDF): https://enterprisegreece.gr/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/OdigosEpendytikaKinitra2026.pdf

INV-EN-002: Starting an Investment Project

Category: Investment process, licensing, company setup
Primary question: What procedures do I need to follow to start an investment?
Alternative user questions:

How do I start investing in Greece?
What are the main steps for implementing an investment project?

Answer:
Starting an investment in Greece follows a streamlined and transparent process designed to facilitate international capital. Enterprise Greece acts as your central point of contact, providing end-to-end support from the initial inquiry to the final implementation of your project.

The basic steps to launch your investment are:

Selection of Legal Entity: Establishing a company (e.g., S.A., Private Company/IKE) via the One-Stop Shop (OSS) service, which allows for rapid incorporation.
Investment Framework Selection: Identifying the most suitable incentive scheme, such as the Development Law for regional projects or the Strategic Investments (Fast Track) framework for large-scale assets.
Licensing Procedures: Navigating the required environmental, building, and operational permits. For many activities, a simple electronic notification is sufficient to start operations immediately.
Application for Incentives: Submitting the investment folder to secure tax exemptions, cash grants, or specialized R&D deductions.

INV-EN-003: Support from Enterprise Greece

Category: Enterprise Greece services, investor support
Primary question: Can Enterprise Greece assist me with investment matters?
Alternative user questions:

What services does Enterprise Greece offer to investors?
How can Enterprise Greece help with my investment?

Answer:
Absolutely! Enterprise Greece is the official national investment and trade promotion agency of the Hellenic State, operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We serve as your primary consultant and strategic partner, providing end-to-end support to ensure the successful realization of your investment project.

Our core services include:

Market intelligence & Guidance
Investment Matchmaking
Location Services
Aftercare Services

As a government agency, we offer these facilitation and project-matching services to international investors to support the growth of the Greek economy through transparent, institutional cooperation.

INV-EN-004: Applying for Investment Incentives

Category: Applications, digital platforms, incentives
Primary question: How can I apply for investment incentives?
Alternative user questions:

Where do I submit an application for investment incentives?
What is the application process for Development Law or Fast Track?

Answer:
The application process for investment incentives in Greece has been digitized and streamlined to ensure transparency and efficiency. Depending on the size and nature of your project, there are specific electronic platforms where you can submit your investment folder and track its progress.

The main application pathways are:

Development Law: Applications are submitted through the State Aid Information System (PSKE). This is an end-to-end digital process where you upload your business plan, financial data, and required documentation.
Fast Track Law: Following the enactment of Law 5297/2026, the receipt of applications for the inclusion of investment projects in the Strategic Investments procedure as well as their evaluation, is carried out by the competent authorities of the General Secretariat for Private Investments of the Ministry of Development, in accordance with the applicable legal framework.
R&D Incentives: Applications for the 200% super-deduction of research expenses are submitted to the General Secretariat for Research and Innovation (GSRI) for certification.

Key Documentation Required: Regardless of the scheme, you will typically need a Detailed Business Plan, a Feasibility Study, proof of Available Funding (own funds or bank commitment), and the relevant Environmental Impact Assessment (where applicable).

INV-EN-005: Startups and Innovative Businesses

Category: Startups, innovation, Elevate Greece
Primary question: What support programs are available for startups or innovative businesses?
Alternative user questions:

Are there funding tools for startups?
What is Elevate Greece?
Are there incentives for angel investors or stock options?

Answer:
Greece has developed a vibrant innovation ecosystem, offering specialized support tools for startups and technology-driven enterprises. The central pillar of this strategy is Elevate Greece, the official platform of the Hellenic State for the certification and support of startups.

By registering with Elevate Greece, businesses gain access to:

Specialized Funding (ESRP/ESPA): Exclusive liquidity support programs and grants dedicated only to registered startups.
Tax Incentives for "Angel Investors": Significant tax deductions for individuals who invest capital in certified startups.
Favorable Stock Options Framework: Incentives to help startups attract and retain high-level talent through employee share schemes.
Global Networking: Opportunities to participate in major international exhibitions and pitching competitions under the national brand.

You can learn more and apply for certification at the official portal: www.elevategreece.gov.gr: https://elevategreece.gov.gr/

In addition to Elevate Greece, horizontal incentives for innovation include:

200% R&D Super-deduction: Research and development expenses are deducted from gross income at a rate of 300% in total, drastically reducing the tax burden.
Patent Tax Exemption: A 3-year tax exemption on profits derived from the sale of products protected by an internationally recognized patent.
Venture Capital Support: Access to equity funding through the EquiFund and other co-investment schemes supported by the Hellenic Development Bank.

INV-EN-006: Enterprise Greece Services for Investors and Businesses

Category: Organization services, investors, exporters
Primary question: What services does Enterprise Greece offer to investors and businesses?
Alternative user questions:

What are Enterprise Greece's services?
What does Enterprise Greece do for investors and exporters?

Answer:
Enterprise Greece is the official national investment and trade promotion agency of Greece, operating under the auspices of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. We serve as a "One-Stop Shop" for entrepreneurship, providing a comprehensive portfolio of services that covers the entire lifecycle of an investment and supports the international growth of Greek businesses.

Our core service pillars include:

Services for Investors:

Market intelligence & Guidance: Providing specialized data on the economic environment, priority sectors, and the legal/institutional framework.
Matchmaking: Connecting international investors with local partners and available investment projects.
Aftercare: Continuous support after the investment is implemented to help resolve administrative bottlenecks and facilitate further expansion.

Services for Exporters:

International Trade Fairs: Organizing the Greek national pavilion at the world's largest commercial exhibitions.
Business Missions: Arranging B2B meetings with international buyers to promote Greek products and services.
Training & Seminars: Enhancing the export readiness of Greek companies through specialized workshops.

As a government organization, our mission is to facilitate business activity and strengthen the global presence of Greek products and services through transparency and institutional efficiency.

INV-EN-007: Personalized Support

Category: Contact, personalized guidance
Primary question: How can I receive personalized support?
Alternative user questions:

I would like to learn more about investing. Can you refer me to someone?
How do I contact the competent department for specialized information?
Can I schedule a meeting with a representative of Enterprise Greece?

Answer:
Enterprise Greece features a specially designed Online Contact Form, which allows you to submit your request digitally and securely. Through this form, you can categorize your inquiry, ensuring it reaches the appropriate department directly for a faster response.

For investment activity in Greece, send a short description of your project (sector, estimated investment size, location) to [email protected]. For export-related interests, contact [email protected].

To schedule a meeting, send an email to [email protected] with a brief summary of your investment project (sector of activity, estimated investment amount, current stage of development). Once we receive your request, the relevant department official will contact you to schedule a meeting, which can be held either in person at our offices or digitally via video conference.

Sources:

Online Contact Form - Enterprise Greece: https://www.enterprisegreece.gov.gr/en/contact-form/

INV-EN-008: Consulting Services for Foreign Investors

Category: Advisory, institutional framework, matchmaking
Primary question: What kind of consulting services are provided to foreign investors?
Alternative user questions:

What advisory services does Enterprise Greece offer?
Can Enterprise Greece connect me with local partners?

Answer:
Enterprise Greece acts as the institutional consultant for foreign investors, offering specialized support that covers every aspect of entering and growing within the Greek market. Our advisory services are not limited to general information but are tailored to the specific needs of each business plan.

The consulting services we provide include:

Market & Sector Analysis: Providing data on market trends, sector sizes, competition, and growth prospects in Greece.
Institutional & Legal Framework Guidance: Information on the tax system, labor laws, company formation procedures, and land-use regulations.
Guidance on Investment Incentives: Advisory on which financial tool (Development Law, Strategic Investments/Fast Track, or ESPA) best fits your investment profile.
Matchmaking Services: Identifying potential local partners (Joint Ventures) and presenting specific investment opportunities from our project portfolio.

Our advisory team consists of experienced professionals who act as the bridge between the investor and public authorities, ensuring the smooth progress of the investment.

INV-EN-009: Market Overview and Sector Data

Category: Market analysis, sector data, macroeconomic data
Primary question: Can I request a market analysis for a specific sector?
Alternative user questions:

Does Enterprise Greece provide information about specific sectors?
Can you recommend sectors for investment in Greece?

Answer:
Enterprise Greece can support you by providing a comprehensive Market Overview for the strategic sectors of the Greek economy. Our goal is to help you understand the investment environment and the opportunities available.

Specifically, we can provide data on:

Macroeconomic Data: Updated indicators of the Greek economy and growth projections.
Comparative Advantages: Analysis of the factors that make a specific sector attractive in Greece (e.g., geographical location, institutional framework, specialized workforce).
Incentive Framework: Information on specific financial tools and grants relevant to your sector of interest.

Note: Our organization does not conduct personalized, in-depth market research or private Business Plans. For specialized information and the key figures of the sector you are interested in, you can contact our team at [email protected].

Greece has transitioned into a dynamic and modern economy, offering high-growth opportunities across several key sectors. The primary sectors currently driving the Greek investment landscape include:

Tourism & Real Estate: Beyond the traditional "sun and beach" model, there is significant growth in luxury hospitality, thematic tourism (wellness, nautical), prime residential and commercial real estate.
Renewable Energy Sources (RES): Greece is a leader in the energy transition, with massive potential in solar, wind (onshore and offshore), green hydrogen, and energy storage solutions.
Logistics & Supply Chain: Leveraging its position as a gateway between Europe, Asia, and Africa, Greece is developing into a major transshipment and logistics hub (Piraeus, Thessaloniki, and Thriasio).
ICT & Technology: A booming tech scene with global players (Microsoft, Google, Digital Realty) establishing data centers, R&D hubs, and innovation centers.
F&B/ Agritech: A cornerstone sector transitioning toward high-value-added exports and sustainable farming, leveraging smart agriculture technologies, biotechnology, and the global appeal of the Mediterranean diet.
Healthcare & Life Sciences: A rapidly expanding sector driven by a strong and export-oriented pharmaceutical manufacturing base, substantial R&D investments, and growing clinical trial activity, positioning Greece as a regional hub for health innovation and medical services.
SSCs, BPOs: A rapidly emerging hub for regional operations, multilingual customer support, and centralized corporate functions, drawing on Greece's highly skilled, tech-savvy, and multilingual talent pool.
Creative Industries: Harnessing Greece's unique heritage alongside a booming contemporary scene in audiovisual productions, digital media, and filming, supported by attractive local tax incentives and cash rebates.

INV-EN-010: Contacting the Relevant Department

Category: Contact, online form, general inquiries
Primary question: How do I contact the relevant department directly?
Alternative user questions:

Is there an online form for requesting information?
What email address or phone number should I use for general inquiries?
How can I contact Enterprise Greece?

Answer:
To ensure you receive the most accurate and specialized assistance, Enterprise Greece has organized its Investment Attraction department by economic sector. You can reach out to the relevant Director based on your project's focus, or submit your request through our online contact form.

Yes, Enterprise Greece provides a dedicated Online Contact Form that allows you to submit your request digitally and securely. This form is designed to help you categorize your inquiry, ensuring it is automatically routed to the correct department for the fastest possible response.

You may send general queries to [email protected], and you can call us on +30 210 3355700.

Important Note: To facilitate an efficient first meeting or call, please send an email first containing a brief summary of your investment project (e.g., sector, estimated budget, and current status). This allows our directors to prepare the necessary data and involve the right technical experts for your specific needs.

Sources:

Online Contact Form - Enterprise Greece: https://www.enterprisegreece.gov.gr/en/contact-form/

INV-EN-011: Competent Officers by Sector

Category: Contacts, investment sectors
Primary question: Is there a list of contacts by sector or industry?
Alternative user questions:

Who should I contact for my sector?
Who is responsible for tourism, real estate, energy, or industry?

Answer:
Yes, Enterprise Greece is organized into specialized directorates to provide expert, sector-specific support. Our directors and their teams possess deep knowledge of the regulatory and investment landscape within their respective fields.

The Investment Promotion Directors by sector are:

Industry, Logistics, Technology & Innovation:
- Mr. Elias Eliades, Director of Investment Promotion. Contact: [email protected] / [email protected]
Tourism, Real Estate & Creative Industries:
- Ms. Hilda Alisandratou, Director of Investment Promotion. Contact: [email protected]
Energy, Environment & Services:
- Mr. Nikos Stamou, Director of Investment Promotion. Contact: [email protected]

To ensure you are connected with the right technical experts and to facilitate a productive initial discussion, we recommend sending an email first with a brief summary of your investment project (e.g., sector, estimated budget, and current status).

INV-EN-012: Financing Tools for New Investments

Category: Funding, subsidies, incentives
Primary question: What incentives may apply to my project?
Alternative user questions:

Are there subsidies or financing tools for new investments?
Where can I find information about funding my investment?

Answer:
Greece offers a wide range of investment incentives designed to boost entrepreneurship, innovation, and regional development. These incentives depend on the sector of activity, the size of the enterprise, and the region where the investment is implemented.

The key financial and developmental tools include:

Development Law: Provides support in the form of tax exemptions, grants, leasing subsidies, and subsidies for the cost of created employment.
Strategic Investments (Fast Track): Offers accelerated licensing, spatial planning through ESCHASE, and special tax incentives for large-scale projects.
ESPA 2021-2027: Co-financing programs for small, medium, and large enterprises.

For an initial overall view of the available incentives, you can refer to the General Investment Guide of Enterprise Greece.

Personalized Information: Since every investment plan is unique, we encourage you to send us an email at [email protected], briefly describing your project. Our specialized team will evaluate the characteristics of your investment and provide specific information on the incentives that match your profile.

Sources:

Guide to Investment Incentives 2026 (PDF): https://enterprisegreece.gr/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/OdigosEpendytikaKinitra2026.pdf

INV-EN-013: Setting Up a Company in Greece

Category: Company formation, legal entity, One-Stop Shop
Primary question: How do I set up a company?
Alternative user questions:

What is the process for establishing a company in Greece?
What legal forms of companies are available in Greece?

Answer:
The Guide: Setting Up a Company in Greece 2025 (PDF): https://enterprisegreece.gr/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Odigos-Setting-Up-Company2025.pdf is the most practical tool for a new investor, as it analyzes the following sections step-by-step:

Legal Forms of Companies: Detailed comparison between S.A. (A.E.), Ltd (E.P.E.), Private Company (I.K.E.), and Branches of foreign companies (advantages, minimum capital, shareholder liabilities).
The "One-Stop Shop" Process: How incorporation is done digitally via e-YMS and the General Commercial Registry (GEMI), drastically reducing time and red tape.
Tax System: Information on corporate income tax rates, VAT, and social security contributions.

INV-EN-014: Visa and Golden Visa Matters

Category: Visa, golden visa, competent authorities
Primary question: Can Enterprise Greece answer questions about visa or golden visa matters?
Alternative user questions:

Where can I find information about golden visa?
Which authority is responsible for migration matters?
Can you help me with a residence permit?

Answer:
Greece offers investment-related schemes that may, in certain cases, include residence permits, subject to the applicable legal framework and eligibility criteria. For up-to-date information, including the Golden Visa, please contact the Ministry of Migration and Asylum directly via its official contact page.

Competent source:

Ministry of Migration and Asylum: https://migration.gov.gr/en/epikoinonia/

INV-EN-015: Regional Investment Opportunities

Category: Regions, regional compass, location
Primary question: Where can I find information on regional investment opportunities in Greece?
Alternative user questions:

Which regions of Greece offer investment opportunities?
Is there a guide for investments by region?

Answer:
Greece offers diverse investment opportunities across its 13 Administrative Regions, each with unique competitive advantages, natural resources, and strategic infrastructure. Whether you are looking for tourism development in the islands, renewable energy projects in the mainland, or tech hubs in urban centers, Enterprise Greece provides the necessary regional intelligence.

For more detailed information on the profiles of all regions in Greece, you may refer to our website.

Sources:

Regional Compass - Enterprise Greece: https://www.enterprisegreece.gov.gr/en/invest-in-greece/investment-helpdesk/regional-compass/