Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Your personal presence at the utility companies is absolutely not required. With a corresponding power of attorney, we fill out all applications for you, sign the contracts in your name, and coordinate the necessary appointments with the providers’ technicians so that everything is already running smoothly by the time you actually move in.
Processing times vary significantly depending on the provider and region. Transferring electricity or water connections is often completed within a few business days. However, the physical activation of phone and internet services can take between one and three weeks depending on the local technical infrastructure, which is why we initiate all steps immediately upon receiving your documents.
Yes, selecting the right tariff is a core part of our free service. Since the Greek market now features many different providers, we analyze the best options for you. We choose the exact tariff that fits your individual needs, whether it’s for electricity, gas, or the optimal package for phone and internet.
To set up utility contracts in Greece, you’ll usually need your Greek tax number (AFM), proof of identity, and your rental or purchase agreement. To make the process completely stress-free for you, we’ll send you a detailed checklist of all required documents from your home country right after you place the order. Once we have these documents, we’ll take care of filling out all applications and handle all direct communication with the respective providers for you.
Our complete processing service for your utility services is 100% free for you. We handle the proper completion of forms and coordination with providers, without any service fees or hidden costs for you.
To apply for the 7% tax rate, you need basic supporting documents, such as your foreign pension statement and proof of residence. To make it as easy as possible for you: As soon as you place your order, we will immediately send you an exact, easy-to-understand checklist of all required documents from your home country. We will then check these for completeness before submitting them to the tax office.
No, you don’t necessarily have to appear in person at the Greek offices. With a corresponding power of attorney, we can represent you for tax purposes, apply for your AFM (tax number), and submit the application for the 7% flat tax for you. In doing so, we act as your official authorized representative for service of process to the Greek tax authorities.
The application must be submitted by March 31 of the tax year in which the regulation is first intended to take effect. Since the review of documents (such as the certificate of residence and pension proofs) takes time, we recommend starting the process no later than January to ensure all deadlines are met.
Once the application has been approved by the relevant tax office for foreigners, the 7% tax rate is valid for a total of 15 consecutive years. This long-term planning security makes Greece one of the most attractive retirement destinations in Europe.
The 7% tax for retirees in Greece applies as a flat tax on your entire income earned abroad. This means that not only your state or private pension is taxed at this low rate, but usually also foreign dividends, interest income, or rental income. This offers huge savings compared to the progressive tax rates of many other EU countries
The regulation is aimed at individuals who receive a foreign pension and move their tax residence to Greece. A key condition is that you were not a tax resident in Greece for five of the last six years prior to your application. Additionally, your country of origin must have a tax cooperation agreement with Greece, which applies to all EU member states
In most cases: No! Unlike opening a bank account, we can handle the entire vehicle registration process at customs (Ektelonismos), the Greek MOT (KTEO), and the Ministry of Transport on your behalf with a notarized power of attorney (Plirexousio). You save yourself endless waiting times at the authorities and spare your nerves.
That depends heavily on your vehicle. With newer cars that have low CO2 emissions, as well as hybrid or electric vehicles, import fees are often moderate, so bringing it along can be worthwhile. With older vehicles (low Euro emissions standard), large engine displacement, or high pollutant emissions, however, the government taxes can be very high. That’s why we check your car’s details in advance, so you don’t get any nasty surprises.
As a tourist, you may drive your vehicle in Greece for up to 6 months (180 days) at a time. However, if you move your main residence to Greece or work here permanently, you must officially import and re-register the vehicle in good time. Warning: If you exceed these deadlines, customs will conduct strict checks, and you face very high fines or even confiscation of your car.
The total costs for vehicle import always consist of two parts:
1. Our service fee: For complete coordination, document preparation, and assistance with administrative procedures, we charge a service fee of €400 (plus statutory VAT).
2. State duties & taxes: Additionally, state fees apply. These include customs duties (registration tax), the costs for the Greek MOT (KTEO), the Greek vehicle tax, and the fees for the new license plates.
Important: These state costs are calculated individually for each vehicle and depend significantly on factors such as make, model, year of manufacture, engine capacity, vehicle type (emission class), and purchase price of the vehicle.
For this reason, we cannot provide specific flat-rate costs for state duties in advance.
For the preliminary review of your documents, scheduling the appointment, and my personal support as well as translation at the bank branch, we charge a one-time service fee of €69 (plus statutory VAT). We stand for full transparency: there are no hidden costs or nasty surprises.
If all documents are complete, the account is usually opened during our appointment or within a few business days. You’ll receive your IBAN immediately and online banking is activated directly on-site. The physical bank card is typically delivered by mail within 5 to 10 business days.
Yes, absolutely. Without an AFM, it’s not legally possible to open a bank account in Greece. If you don’t have an AFM yet, we’ll be happy to apply for it for you as the first step before we schedule the appointment at the bank.
Yes, Greek banks almost always require you to appear in person at the branch for identification and to sign the opening documents. But don’t worry: I will accompany you personally to this appointment. I’ll handle the communication with the bank staff, check the documents on-site, and ensure that everything runs smoothly and without any language barriers.
The banks’ requirements are strict and vary greatly depending on your personal situation. Generally, you will always need your valid ID card or passport, proof of your Greek tax number (AFM), and official confirmation of your mobile phone number.
Which additional documents (such as proof of income or residence) are required depends on two crucial factors:
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Whether you are registering your primary residence (main residence) or only a secondary residence in Greece.
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Whether you will be liable for tax in Greece in the future or will continue to be taxed in your home country.
After we have discussed your exact situation, you will receive a precise checklist tailored to you, so we can go to our bank appointment perfectly prepared.
For the complete process—from checking your documents and handling the official procedure to sending you the official AMKA—we charge a one-time service fee of €49 (plus statutory VAT). We work transparently: there are no hidden costs.
To apply, you’ll need your valid ID card or passport, proof of your Greek tax number (AFM), and proof of an address in Greece (e.g., a rental agreement or an official residence certificate).
Yes, for the AMKA application, your personal appearance at the office is legally required. But don’t worry: I won’t leave you to deal with this on your own! I’ll accompany you in person to your on-site appointment. I’ll handle all communication with the officials in Greek, make sure all forms are error-free, and guide you through the entire process completely stress-free.
Yes, in most cases that is the case. For expats and foreigners, the Greek tax number (AFM) is the basic requirement before the AMKA can be applied for at the relevant office (KEP). If you don’t have an AFM yet, we can efficiently apply for both numbers for you.
The AMKA (Arithmos Mitroou Koinonikis Asfalisis) is the official Greek social security number. It is mandatory to be treated within the public healthcare system, obtain prescription medication at the pharmacy, work legally in Greece, or receive state benefits (such as pensions).
The AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou) is the most important key to your life or investments in Greece. Without this number, you cannot open a bank account, buy property, register a car, or sign contracts for electricity or internet. It is always the first, mandatory step.
Your effort is minimal. In most cases, we only need a legible copy of your ID card or passport, your current residential address, and the power of attorney we prepare.
An email address and a Greek mobile number
Once we have all the required documents (such as the signed power of attorney), the actual process with the Greek tax authority usually takes only a few business days. We take care of a fast and smooth process—typically, we receive the AFM within five business days.
No, personal presence is not required in most cases.
There are several ways to apply for a Greek tax number (AFM):
1. Application via power of attorney (recommended)
With a corresponding power of attorney, I can handle the entire process for you. The power of attorney must be issued and notarized at a Greek consulate. I will provide you with a ready-made template, including a German translation, which you can use directly at the consulate.
2. Identification via video call
Alternatively, I can prepare the application entirely. You will then receive an appointment with the relevant tax office in Greece, where you will identify yourself personally via video call.
3. In person on-site in Greece
Another option is for you to come to Greece for a short time. We will create a power of attorney together on-site, and I will then take care of the entire online processing.
Depending on your situation, we will choose the easiest and fastest solution for you together.
For the entire process—from preparing the documents to the final issuance of your AFM—we charge a one-time service fee of €100 (plus applicable VAT). There are no hidden costs. We handle the complete administrative process for you.
Yes, as an EU citizen, you can easily purchase property in Greece. You generally have the same rights as Greek citizens.
Important to know:
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In a few areas with special security relevance (e.g., border areas or military zones), a property purchase may be restricted or subject to approval.
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You need a Greek tax number (AFM) to make the purchase.
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The purchase always takes place via a notarial deed and the subsequent registration in the land register.
Urgent recommendation:
Before you buy a property, you should have two professional checks carried out:
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A Greek lawyer
→ checks the title of ownership, encumbrances, mortgages, outstanding tax debts, legal risks and creates/checks the purchase agreements. -
A building engineer
→ checks the structural condition, approved building plans, any illegal additions, structural safety and whether all building documents match the actual condition.
Both checks are standard practice in Greece and reliably protect against subsequent legal or structural problems.
A rental agreement in Greece must contain certain minimum information in order to be legally valid and correctly registered with the tax office.
Mandatory information in the Greek rental agreement
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Details of the landlord and tenant
(Name, address, tax ID) -
Address and exact description of the property
including floor, area, storage room, parking space, etc. -
Rental period
Fixed-term or indefinite.
Important: Even with fixed-term contracts, a minimum rental period of 3 years applies as legal protection (mandatory law). -
Amount of rent
and information on annual adjustments (if agreed). -
Additional costs / κοινόχρηστα
Who pays what? (e.g. house fees, elevator, heating, maintenance) -
Deposit
Usually 1–2 months’ rent. -
Condition of the apartment & inventory list
If furnished: exact list. -
Payment method
Bank transfer is standard — a Greek bank account is often required. -
Pets (if regulated)
Special feature in Greece
The rental agreement must be electronically registered with the TaxisNet tax office.
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The landlord does this.
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The tenant must then digitally confirm the registration within 30 days.
Without confirmation, the contract is not considered active for tax purposes.
Recommendation
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Always demand that the contract be in writing (not just a verbal agreement).
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If you are unsure, it is advisable to involve a Greek lawyer.
Yes. We provide support with finding an apartment in Greece as well as with all steps related to the rental agreement.
Our support for finding an apartment includes:
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Information on safe and suitable residential areas
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Tips on common Greek real estate portals
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Explanation of local peculiarities of the rental market
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Contacting real estate agents or landlords (if desired)
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Preparation for viewings
Support with the rental agreement:
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Review of typical contract contents
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Explanation of all important clauses
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Help with understanding Greek formulations
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Support with the digital confirmation of the rental agreement (TaxisNet)
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Information on the rights and obligations of tenants in Greece
Important to know
We do not replace a lawyer. If a legal review is necessary, we recommend a Greek lawyer who formally assesses the contract.
There are several major providers for landline internet in Greece. Availability depends on the specific address. The main providers are:
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Cosmote (OTE)
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Vodafone GR
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Nova
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Inalan (particularly affordable internet-only connections in many cities, without telephone)
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Starlink (satellite-based internet, available everywhere – useful for remote regions)
Registering for electricity
There are various electricity providers in Greece. The following documents are generally required for registration:
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Rental agreement or proof of ownership
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AFM (Greek tax number)
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Identification
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Meter number
We can help you find the best provider and the right tariff for electricity or gas (heating) and, if desired, take over the complete organization.
Registering for water
Water supply is provided by different water companies depending on the region.
You usually need the following to register:
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Rental agreement or proof of ownership
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AFM
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Identification
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Meter reading
The re-registration is usually straightforward and quickly done.
As an EU citizen, you can open a bank account in Greece.
However, the process and requirements differ depending on whether you have your primary residence in Greece or only use Greece as a secondary residence.
✅ Required documents for opening an account
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ID card or passport
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AFM (Greek tax number)
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Lease agreement or other proof of residence
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Tax ID from your home country
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Phone & email
🔵 If Greece is your primary residence
Opening an account is easier.
Greek banks accept:
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a Greek lease agreement
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an AFM
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a local phone number
As a rule, you will receive the account immediately or within a few days.
🟡 If Greece is your secondary residence (primary residence remains in Germany)
This is often more complicated, as banks require additional proof, for example:
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Confirmation of residence in your home country
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Proof of income
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Proof of why a Greek account is needed
(e.g. lease agreement, property purchase, electricity or water bill, employment contract)
Some banks only open accounts if there is a Greek residence.
Others accept EU citizens even without a permanent residence — it depends on the bank.
🧾 Process
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Appointment or visit to the branch (e.g. Alpha Bank, Eurobank, Piraeus Bank, NBG).
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Submit documents.
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Account activation usually takes place quickly (often on the same day).
🤝 Our service
We help with:
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selecting the right bank (depending on primary or secondary residence),
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preparing all the necessary documents,
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creating the AFM,
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scheduling appointments,
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and assistance with opening the account.
As an EU citizen, you do not have to pay customs when you bring your vehicle to Greece.
However, there are important differences depending on whether you want to permanently import the vehicle or use it in Greece only temporarily.
✅ 1. No Customs for EU Vehicles
Within the EU, there are no customs fees, as Greece is part of the EU internal market.
🚗 2. Temporary Use (No Permanent Residence in Greece)
If your main residence is still in Germany, the vehicle in Greece may:
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be used for up to 6 months per year without re-registration
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continue to use German license plates
Important:
The vehicle must not remain permanently in Greece if the owner does not have a Greek residence.
🏠 3. Permanent Use (Primary Residence in Greece)
If your primary residence is moved to Greece, the following applies:
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The vehicle must be registered in Greece.
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There will be no customs fee, but a registration tax (Τέλη Ταξινόμησης) will be due.
This tax depends on:-
Vehicle type
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CO₂ emissions
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Engine capacity
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Age
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🤝 Our Service
We provide support with:
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the classification of whether the vehicle is “removal goods”
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the calculation of the possible registration tax
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the registration in Greece
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the entire document processing
If an EU citizen relocates their primary residence to Greece and wants to use the vehicle there permanently, it must be registered in Greece.
Required documents
The following documents are usually required for registration:
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Primary residence in Greece
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AFM (Greek tax number)
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Rental agreement or proof of residence
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Vehicle registration certificate
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Vehicle title
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Sales contract
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EC Certificate of Conformity (CoC) from the manufacturer
The CoC document confirms that the vehicle complies with EU directives and is required for registration.
The AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) is the Greek social security number.
It is roughly equivalent to the German social security number or the European health insurance number.
What do I need the AMKA for?
The AMKA is required for:
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Doctor’s visits and medical care
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Public or private health insurance
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Employment with a Greek employer
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Pension and social security contributions
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Registration in the Greek health system (EOPYY)
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Some administrative procedures relating to social benefits
For many everyday matters, the AFM is sufficient, but for anything to do with health, work or social insurance, the AMKA is necessary.
Who needs an AMKA?
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People with primary residence in Greece
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People who work in Greece
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People who are required to have statutory health insurance
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EU citizens who move to Greece permanently
Those who only use Greece as a second home and do not need any medical services/work in Greece usually do not need the AMKA.
Yes.
The AFM (ΑΦΜ) is a basic requirement in Greece for almost all official procedures.
What do I need the AFM for?
The Greek tax number is required for:
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Rental agreement
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Electricity and water registration
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Bank account
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Buying or selling a property
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Registering a vehicle
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Opening a business
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Taking out insurance
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General tax registration
Without an AFM, many services and administrative procedures cannot be carried out.
Do I also need the AFM as a second home?
Yes — even if Greece is only a second home, the AFM is required as soon as:
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a rental agreement is concluded
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a car is used/registered
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a bank account is required
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bills (electricity, water, internet) are to be in your own name
You usually need the following to register your residence:
- A valid passport or identity card
- Rental agreement or proof of ownership
- A Greek tax number