Why Does Tom Hanks Have a Greek Passport? The Story Behind His Citizenship

In July 2019, Hollywood’s beloved actor Tom Hanks and his wife, Rita Wilson, made headlines not for their latest romantic comedy or film premiere, but for their multiple passports. The couple, who had long been frequent visitors to Greece, officially became Greek citizens, a recognition that went beyond their celebrity status and marked their dedication to the country. Hanks’ story reflects how celebrities, and individuals more broadly, are navigating global identity in an increasingly interconnected world.

Tom Hanks: A Dual Citizen

The 2018 Greek wildfires, particularly devastating in the seaside town of Mati, near Athens, were among the deadliest in history. These fires displaced thousands of people and drew international attention to Greece’s need for aid. Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson, who have deep ties to Greece, were among the first to lend their support.

The couple used their platform to raise awareness and contributed financially to relief actions, helping the recovery efforts. Their commitment to Greece during this crisis led to the government bestowing honorary Greek citizenship on them in recognition of their exceptional services. On the occasion of Hanks’ 64th birthday, the Greek Prime Minister at the time, Kyriakos Mitsotakis, alongside the then-President Prokopis Pavlopoulos, personally presented Tom Hanks and Rita Wilson with their Greek passports.

Learn More About Greek Residency

Why Did Tom Hanks Move to Greece?

To Hanks and Wilson, Greece is more than just a place they vacation—it’s a second home. Wilson, who boasts Greek ancestry from her mother’s side, introduced Hanks to Greek culture early in their marriage. Over the years, the couple has spent many summer months on the Greek island of Antiparos, where they own a home in a picturesque seaside village.

Hanks has often described Greece as a “healing place,” and the honorary citizenship was a reflection of the couple’s deep ties to the country. This is not just a passport for Hanks, but a meaningful connection to a place that has shaped a part of his life.

Europe’s Golden Visas: 5 Highly Pursued EU Residence Programs

Greek Citizenship News and International Attention

The formal citizenship documentation arrived in 2019, but the couple’s official induction into Greek society came the following summer months. When President Pavlopoulos signed their citizenship documents, it was clear that Hanks was no longer just a frequent visitor but now a permanent part of Greek society.

As major celebrities and household names, Hanks and Wilson didn’t merely accept Greek citizenship as a formality. They embraced it fully, attending cultural events and contributing to the local community. Their passion for Greece and its people has them spending every couple of months visiting their Antiparos home, where they frequently host celebrity guests and enjoy the laid-back charm of the island.

Multiple Passports: A Celebrity Trend?

Hanks’ dual citizenship is part of a larger trend where high-profile individuals seek multiple passports, not just for convenience but for strategic reasons. As an attorney working in citizenship and investment law, I see how more people are embracing global mobility, freedom, and security. It’s about more than having a document that opens borders; it’s about expanding identity and gaining flexibility in where one can live, work, and invest.

For Hanks and many others, having multiple passports offers several benefits. For instance:

• Security: Obtaining a second citizenship provides a safety net in times of political unrest or instability. It allows individuals to have a secure base in a stable country, ensuring personal and financial protection.
• Ability to Navigate Geopolitical Tensions: Individuals can avoid becoming trapped by geopolitical tensions or travel restrictions that affect their home country. This flexibility enables greater freedom to travel, conduct business, and relocate if necessary.
• Access to Different Healthcare Systems and Tax Regimes: Dual citizens can take advantage of healthcare systems in multiple countries, often gaining access to higher-quality or more affordable medical care. Additionally, they can benefit from more favorable tax regimes, optimizing their financial situation by leveraging the tax benefits of their second citizenship.

Acquiring a second passport is a decision that increasingly resonates not just with the ultra-wealthy but with individuals seeking more freedom in a world that’s becoming more complex.

Why Americans Are Choosing Dual Citizenship by Investment in Malta 

My Perspective on Dual Citizenship and Multiple Passports

From my experience, dual or multiple citizenship is transformative. I’ve seen firsthand how clients, like Hanks, pursue second passports for personal reasons—whether it’s to connect with their heritage, provide better opportunities for their families, or simply gain the freedom to live where their heart calls them. It’s not just a legal benefit; it’s an emotional one.

For many, acquiring multiple passports means peace of mind and the ability to diversify opportunities. It’s about building a life that isn’t bound by borders but shaped by the places that matter most to them.

Why Greece? A Personal Take

Greece has always held a special appeal for me, both as a professional helping clients navigate its “Golden Visa” program and as someone who appreciates the country’s rich culture. The allure of Greece goes beyond the practical benefits of a residency-by-investment program—it’s about lifestyle. Greece offers a slower pace, a connection to ancient history, and stunning natural beauty that make it a unique sanctuary for those seeking to escape the fast-paced pressures of modern life.

When I help clients secure Greek residency, I’m not just guiding them through legal steps. I’m helping them fulfill their dream of living in one of the most beautiful and culturally rich countries in the world. Whether it’s the sun-soaked beaches of Santorini or the vibrant streets of Athens, Greece offers more than just a place to live—it offers a way of life.

Why Is Greece Is a Top Choice for Residency?

What sets Greece apart is its ability to blend tradition with modernity. While its “Golden Visa” program provides a straightforward path to residency, the real draw for many—including my clients—is the lifestyle. Greece’s slower, more reflective pace of life allows people to reconnect with themselves and their surroundings, offering both personal growth and financial security.

I’ve worked with people who found Greece to be more than just a strategic residency choice—it became a sanctuary. I understand this deeply. Greece invites you to pause, breathe, and immerse yourself in a life that’s connected to something timeless, whether through its ancient ruins or its crystal-clear waters. This is why Greece isn’t just a destination; it’s a place that feels like home.

If you are interested in receiving more information about citizenship and residency by investment opportunities around the world: jennifer@jhmarlin.com