Greece expands resettlement and home renovation subsidy programs

Greece is launching new housing and resettlement initiatives. Minister of Social Cohesion and Family Domna Michailidou announced that the resettlement platform will open on October 14, offering 10,000 euros to citizens who choose to settle permanently in remote areas. The program has been expanded to include Kilkis, Florina, Kastoria, Drama, Pella, Grevena, Kozani, Serres, Ioannina, and Thesprotia. Eligibility no longer requires proof of local employment; applicants only need to own or rent a residence in the area.

Additionally, the ‘Renovate’ program, which combines home repairs with mild energy upgrades, is moving into its next phase. By October 20, citizens can begin submitting documentation to receive a 50% advance of their subsidy. The program aims to renovate over 20,000 homes, with subsidies covering up to 95% of eligible costs and reaching a maximum of 36,000 euros per property.

A primary focus of the renovation scheme is to encourage the reopening of vacant properties to increase the long-term rental supply and mitigate rising rent prices. Approximately 94,000 eligibility certificates have already been issued, covering both occupied homes and vacant properties.