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Turkey Views Greek Borderland Property Law Tightening with Suspicion

Published January 28, 2026, 06:11
Turkey Views Greek Borderland Property Law Tightening with Suspicion

The Turkish press is approaching with suspicion the upcoming tightening of the Greek legal framework for property transactions in border areas, seeing it as a targeted move against Turkish interests. Websites such as Patronlar Dunyasi describe the development as a "dangerous step" for Turkish investments, while Sozcu and Yeni Akit speak of "Athens' anger" and possible involvement of intelligence services. The Greek government justifies the tightening with reasons of "national security," targeting properties acquired through the "golden visa" program. The Turkish side expresses fears of property confiscation and restriction of legal recourse. The criticism is based on statements by Defense Minister Nikos Dendias regarding the expansion of areas subject to prohibitions. The existing regime already prohibits citizens outside the EU and companies outside the EU from buying or renting property in border areas, such as islands in the eastern Aegean (Kos, Kalymnos, Rhodes, Symi) and areas such as Evros, Xanthi, Rhodope, Chios and Lesvos. The new regulation is expected to expand this list by Presidential Decree, adding "strategic points and settlements." Furthermore, the new draft law provides for the mandatory identification of the "ultimate beneficiary" of each property and strict checks even on companies with a small percentage of foreign capital (1%). Provisions for penalties and property confiscation are also on the table, while the discussion extends to the area of food security.