Squatters' rights in Greece are governed by the principle of "extraordinary adverse possession" under the Greek Civil Code. As of early 2026, a person may legally claim ownership of a property if they can prove they have been in continuous, uninterrupted possession of it for a period of at least 20 years while acting as the "apparent owner." To be successful, the squatter must demonstrate they have performed "ownership acts," such as paying utility bills, maintaining the structure, or fencing the land. For property owners, the 2026 advice is to perform a "Title Search" and inspect your property regularly; if a squatter is detected, you must initiate immediate legal action (such as an "eviction lawsuit") to bar their claim before the 20-year clock expires. While Greece has a complex land registry system, the law heavily protects legitimate titleholders who actively manage their assets. For foreign investors buying villas or land in 2026, ensuring that the property is properly fenced and monitored—often via local property management services—is the best way to prevent any long-term "possession" claims from arising in this Mediterranean jurisdiction.