ATHENS, October 2026 — Greece will extend its €10,000 relocation grant to border islands in the program’s third phase, Social Cohesion and Family Minister Domna Michailidou said in a television interview.
The program pays €10,000 to people who settle permanently in Greece’s border regions. Its second phase is now under way, and 1,400 people applied within the first two days, Michailidou said.
Applications have come from areas including Serres, Kastoria and Kilkis, she said, as well as from Greeks abroad who want to return home.
Michailidou did not name which islands the third phase would include. The program currently covers border areas on the mainland.
Greece opened the platform for the second phase on 14 October, with half of the grant paid in advance, as Greek City Times reported. Applicants can live in Greece or abroad.
The relocation grant works alongside other support schemes, Michailidou said. These include the “Spiti mou 3” home-buying program, the “Anakainizo” renovation program, the abolition of the ENFIA property tax for small settlements, and new health centres.
The money is available and will be topped up if it runs out, she said, because the government has already agreed this with the Ministry of Finance.
Michailidou also said the guide for the second phase of the “Anakainizo – Noikiazo” (Renovate – Rent) program would be published within the week.
The guide will explain how to fill in the application and submit renovation plans, starting with homes that currently stand empty, she said.
Source: ERT News
Bill Giannopoulos
Junior Editor
Bill Giannopoulos is a Junior Editor at Greek City Times, covering Greek and international news, sport, and history.