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🏆Golden Visa Latest Updates, Labour Shortages in Hospitality Sector
Did you know? The term "lesbian" is derived from Lesbos, home of Greek poet Sappho
Chloe Mason
November 13, 2025
đź‘‹ Hey there expats,
In this week’s newsletter, we’re sharing with you our weekly roundup of news in Greece, concerning bureaucracy, immigration or administrative changes, tax and real estate.
Did you know? The term “Lesbian” derives from ancient Greek poet Sappho’s home, Lesbos
The famous ancient Greek poet Sappho (c. 630–570 BC) from the island of Lesbos was so renowned in antiquity that her home island dedicated its name to the term “lesbian”, reflecting the poetry of female love and affection found in her work.
However, the island's name was not immediately adopted as a term for female homosexuality in antiquity. That usage is a much later, modern derivation based on the content of her poetry.
Her poetry survives only in fragments today, but her influence was enormous in antiquity — she was called “the Tenth Muse” by Plato. Many of Sappho's fragments, along with other ancient texts, were preserved in unusual places, such as the ancient garbage dump of Oxyrhynchus, Egypt, or as part of the cartonnage (plaster-like material) wrapped around mummified bodies.
Her poems are sensual and intense, known for using floral and natural imagery to depict feminine beauty and desire. Her "Fragment 16" defines beauty as "whatever a person loves," privileging individual desire over traditional values.
Read more about Sappho here.
Courtesy of GreekReporter.com
In the news
👷‍♂️Labour Shortage in Greece’s Tourism Sector
Greek tourism industry reports big delays in issuing VAT numbers, social-security numbers and other essential administrative documents. Foreign labour is needed but hiring from abroad remains “complicated and full of obstacles”. Read here.
🥇Greece Golden Visa News
Based on the recent legislative changes (Law 5100/2024) released in the Government Gazette on November 11th, here is a summary of the updates to the Greece Golden Visa program, focusing on the new investment rules.
For Listed (Heritage) Buildings, applications can now be filed once the notary's certificate confirms the property's official status and details any property interventions; the full restoration report is only mandated at the first renewal.
The Golden Visa application process is now less bureaucratic, allowing investors to submit their application immediately after signing the deed (by providing proof of filing) without waiting for the final Land Registry certificate.
The 120 sqm size for properties applies in the €400,000 and €800,000 tiers, the requirement for 100% investor ownership if purchasing through a company, and the strict prohibition of short-term rentals (like Airbnb) for properties acquired after April 5, 2024. Read here.
On the blog
👩‍⚖️The Ultimate Guide to Finding a Qualified Expat Lawyer in Greece: If you're currently navigating the complexities of residency, visas, or property in Greece, finding the right legal professional is the most critical step. Read here.
👉Need a Golden Visa for Greece? 🇬🇷
At My Greek Expat Journey, we assist expats from around the world in obtaining their residency permits and handling other administrative tasks. With a trusted network of highly experienced, English-speaking professionals, we ensure a smooth and seamless process. Our transparent communication, up-front fees, and quick responses make relocating to Greece stress-free.
To find out more, book a 15-minute discovery call to learn more about our services.
That's it for this week's newsletter! As always, feel free to reach out with any questions, suggestions, or if you'd like to be featured.
Wishing you a fantastic week ahead filled with Greek adventures and memorable experiences.
Yassas!
The “My Greek Expat Journey” Team
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