Greece has become the European leader in issuing golden visas, but at what cost? The program offering residence permits to wealthy foreigners investing in real estate has brought the country a whopping 3 billion euros, but it has also wreaked havoc on the housing market. Apartment prices in Athens have tripled, and local residents are being pushed out because they simply can’t keep up. Young couples are forced to rent places they can’t afford, while the rich buy properties they often leave empty. Barcelona faced a similar crisis, with citizens revolting against the flood of tourists and investors. The Greek government is trying to raise the minimum property purchase price to slow things down, but will it be enough to stop this disaster? While the wealthy bask in luxury, ordinary people are losing their homes and futures. Think this is just another rich vs. poor story? Think again — this is a battle for a roof over your head happening right now, in front of our eyes. So, what’s your take on golden visas? Drop a comment, let’s see who’s for and who’s against!
