COMMUNITY CORNER
XpatAthens
February At The Maria Callas Museum
Wednesday, February 12th
- Date: Wednesday, February 12th
- Showtimes: 19:30 & 21:00
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Price: €25 (includes Museum entry before the show, optional)
- Required reservation via more.com. Book your tickets HERE!
- Note: Part of the performance will be standing.
Sunday, February 16th
- Date: Sunday, February 16th
- Time: 12:00
- Duration: 65 minutes
- Ages: 4-12 years
- Price: €10 per child & €10 for a companion
- Required reservation via more.com. Reserve your spot HERE!
Saturday, February 22nd
- Date: Saturday, February 22nd
- Time: 12:30
- Duration: 50 minutes
- Price: €14 (Discounts available)
- Required reservation via more.com. Book your spot HERE!
Every Thursday in February
- Dates: Thursdays (6, 13, 20, 27 February)
- Time: 12:30
- Duration: 50 minutes
- Price: €7 for 65+ (Tour is free)
- Call to reserve: 210 44 04 204
Sunday, February 9th
- Date: Sunday, February 9th
- Time: 11:30-12:30 & 13:15-14:15
- Ages: 4-8 years
- Price: €13 per child and companion
- Required reservation: 210 44 04 204 (Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-18:00)
Sunday, February 23rd
- Date: Sunday, February 23rd
- Time: 11:30-12:30
- Ages: 4-10 years
- Price: €10 per child and companion
- Required reservation: 210 44 04 204 (Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-18:00)
Sunday, February 23rd
- Date: Sunday, February 23rd
- Time: 9:30 AM
- Ages: 8 months to 2.5 years
- Price: €10 per child and companion
- Required reservation: 210 44 04 204 (Tuesday-Saturday 10:00-18:00)
Stoiximan AegeanBall Festival, A Celebration Of Basketball, Returns This June
Understanding Tax In Greece | Double Taxation
With deep expertise in Greek tax legislation, the team at TaxWise Greece assists individuals and businesses in determining their tax residency status and offering tailored guidance to meet their unique financial needs.
Given the extensive Greek international community, TaxWise Greece frequently supports expats and international businesses in managing their tax obligations, including:
- Income, Capital Gains, and Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Social Security and Wealth Tax
- Inheritance and Gift Taxation
- Double Taxation Agreements (with countries such as the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Israel)
- Establishing Tax Residency & Compliance
- Shipping and Vessel Taxation
- Special Greek Tax Incentives for Foreigners
Determining Greek Tax Residency
Clarifying your residency status is the first step toward tax compliance. The specialized team at TaxWise Greece is well-versed in helping clients navigate these criteria. Generally, you are considered a Greek tax resident if:
- Your permanent home or center of vital interests is in Greece.
- You reside in Greece for more than 183 days within a twelve-month fiscal year (consecutive or not).
For individuals considered tax residents in both Greece and another country, the situation becomes more nuanced, requiring careful application of the double taxation treaties Greece has established with over 50 nations to prevent being taxed twice on the same income.
Greek Tax Year & Filing Deadlines
The Greek tax year aligns with the Gregorian calendar (January 1st to December 31st). For most residents, tax returns must be filed between April and June of the following year. For those with business income, taxes are often paid in installments based on the earnings declared.
- Income Tax: Employers deduct the appropriate tax amounts from salaries each month for employees and businesses.
- Capital Tax: Gains from interest, royalties, lottery winnings, inheritance, or property transfers are taxed at rates ranging from 10% to 20%.
- Value Added Tax (VAT): Standard VAT is set at 24%, with some services qualifying for reduced rates.
- Social Security Tax: Employers contribute 25.06%, while employees contribute 16% of salaries.
Greece’s 7% Foreign Income Tax Scheme | A Game-Changer For Retirees
For many people approaching retirement, choosing where to spend the next chapter of life is about more than sunshine and scenery. Financial stability, quality healthcare, safety, and lifestyle all play a major role in the decision-making process.
Over the past few years, Greece has become an increasingly popular destination for international retirees seeking a balance between affordability, comfort, and tax efficiency. From charming coastal towns and vibrant city life to island living and a relaxed pace of life, Greece offers a unique combination of practical benefits and Mediterranean charm.
A Competitive Tax Environment For Foreign Retirees
One of Greece's most attractive incentives for international retirees is its special tax regime for individuals transferring their tax residency to the country.
Under this framework, eligible retirees may benefit from a flat 7% tax rate on foreign-sourced income. The arrangement can provide substantial savings compared to the tax rates that may apply in other jurisdictions, making Greece an appealing option for those receiving pensions or investment income from abroad.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the regime, applicants generally need to meet certain conditions, including:
- Not having been a Greek tax resident for at least five of the previous six years before transferring their tax residency.
- Being a tax resident of a country that maintains administrative cooperation in tax matters with Greece.
- Officially transferring their tax residency to Greece.
As with any tax-related decision, professional advice should be sought to assess individual circumstances and eligibility.
Additional Tax Benefits Worth Considering
Beyond the retiree tax regime, Greece offers other features that may be attractive to internationally mobile individuals and investors.
Capital Gains
In certain cases, gains from the sale of shares and other investments may benefit from favorable tax treatment, depending on the circumstances and applicable legislation.
Dividend Income
Greece maintains a relatively low tax rate on dividend income, which may be beneficial for retirees who supplement their pension with investment returns.
Life in Greece: More Than Just the Weather
While financial considerations are important, lifestyle often becomes the deciding factor.
Retirees are drawn to Greece for a variety of reasons:
- Over 250 days of sunshine annually in many regions.
- A Mediterranean diet widely associated with healthy living.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks.
- A slower pace of life and strong sense of community.
- Access to both modern urban centers and tranquil island destinations.
- Excellent opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year.
Whether you prefer the energy of Athens, the Venetian charm of Crete, or the relaxed atmosphere of smaller islands, Greece offers options to suit a wide range of lifestyles.
Cost Of Living
Compared with many countries in Northern Europe and North America, everyday expenses in Greece can be significantly lower. Housing, dining, transportation, and leisure activities are often more affordable, allowing retirees to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while managing their budgets effectively.
Healthcare & Accessibility
Greece provides access to both public and private healthcare services, with private healthcare often available at competitive prices compared to other European countries.
Major cities are well connected through international airports, making it easy for retirees to stay in touch with family and travel across Europe and beyond.
Residency Pathways
EU Citizens
Citizens of European Union member states can generally relocate to Greece with relatively straightforward residency procedures, provided they comply with local registration requirements.
Non-EU Citizens
Several residency routes may be available to non-EU nationals, including residence permits for financially independent individuals and investment-based residency programs, subject to current immigration rules and requirements.
Is Greece The Right Choice For Your Retirement?
For some, the appeal lies in the financial advantages. For others, it is the opportunity to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle surrounded by stunning landscapes, welcoming communities, and a rich cultural environment.
Whatever the motivation, Greece continues to establish itself as one of Europe's most attractive destinations for international retirees seeking a rewarding and fulfilling lifestyle abroad.
All You Need To Know About ENFIA Property Tax In Greece
Navigating property taxes in a foreign country can be daunting, but you don't have to do it alone. We are proud to introduce our trusted partners at TaxWise Greece, a team of dedicated tax experts specializing in helping expats and international investors manage their Greek tax obligations.
Whether you are buying your first holiday home or managing a large portfolio, the TaxWise Greece team ensures your property taxes are handled with precision and care.
What Is ENFIA?
ENFIA, introduced in 2014, is a Uniform Real Estate Property Tax applied annually to all real estate located in Greece. It applies to individuals, legal entities, and other entities, and is assessed as of January 1st each year.
The tax covers various real estate rights, including full ownership, bare ownership, surface rights, and exclusive use rights for parking spaces and other areas such as swimming pools.
When purchasing property in Greece, an E9 form is required. This form lists all real estate owned and is used to calculate the ENFIA assessment. The tax consists of two components: the main tax and the supplementary tax.
What Is The Main ENFIA Tax?
This tax is calculated based on factors such as the property’s location, size, use, age, and floor level. It typically ranges from €2.5 to €16.25 per square meter. When buying property in Greece, it’s important to consider the ENFIA tax to avoid financial surprises. For instance, a penthouse and a first-floor apartment in the same building may have vastly different tax amounts, even if they share the same location.
What Is The Supplementary Tax?
The supplementary tax applies to legal entities and is generally 5.5% of the property’s value. However, this is reduced to 1% if the property is used for business purposes, such as a warehouse for a company storing supplies.
Filing & Deadlines
You will be notified about your ENFIA tax assessment through the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). It doesn’t matter how many months you had the property. The system reads if you have a property at the 1st of January each year. Once you receive your bill, you have two options:
- Pay it in full by the end of the month of assessment.
- Pay it in monthly installments (the number of installments can vary by year, currently up to 11 or 12).
To transfer a property, the owner must provide an ENFIA certificate confirming that all taxes for the past five years have been paid. A Notary Public will verify this before any sale can proceed.
General Advice For Buyers
If you’re from abroad, you may find ENFIA similar to property taxes in your home country. However, it remains a sensitive topic in Greece as it was introduced during the financial crisis. While it may not seem substantial compared to the property's total value, it is a recurring expense that must be budgeted for, especially for high-end houses in desirable locations.
You can get a discount up to 20% on residencies, if you get an insurance covering natural disasters.
We Are Here For You!
Getting set up in Greece comes with unique challenges, especially when navigating a new tax and healthcare system. Whether you are an expat adjusting to life in the Mediterranean or a business expanding into the Greek market, we are here to help.
TaxWise Greece specializes in making this transition seamless. From filing your E9 forms to navigating complex residency requirements, their expert team provides the clarity and compliance you need to enjoy your life in Greece with total peace of mind.
Binge-Worthy Greek Series & Movies On Netflix
Greek series and movies are making waves on Netflix, offering viewers captivating stories, stunning visuals, and a glimpse into Greek culture and history. Whether you're a fan of dark thrillers, emotional dramas, or historical epics, there’s something for everyone. Here are some binge-worthy Greek titles to dive into!
1. Σώσε Με (Save Me) – 2022 (Series, 8 Episodes)
For fans of dark, Harlan Coben-style thrillers, Save Me is an absolute must-watch. This intense series, set against the stunning backdrop of Komotini, is filled with twists and turns that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It dives deep into the struggles of minorities in Greece, shedding light on the hardships they face while delivering a gripping, fast-paced narrative. With beautiful cinematography and an atmospheric tone, this show is a standout.
Watch the trailer HERE!
2. Αν... (What If) – 2012 (Movie)
What if every decision you made could change the course of your life? Similar to Sliding Doors with Gwyneth Paltrow, written and directed by Christoforos Papakaliatis, this film stars, among others, two legendary Greek actors, Giorgos Konstantinou and Maro Kontou, from the golden era of Greek cinema. It weaves a story of love, passion, and betrayal, exploring how the choices we make shape our destiny. Perfect for those who enjoy heartfelt dramas with a philosophical twist.
Watch the trailer HERE!
3. Σμύρνη Μου Αγαπημένη (Smyrna My Beloved) – 2021 (Movie)
Written by Mimi Denisi, Smyrna My Beloved is a cinematic masterpiece and a gut-wrenching portrayal of one of the darkest chapters in Greek history. The film takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster, recounting the tragedy of Smyrna and the suffering endured by the Greek people. While it’s not for the faint-hearted, it’s a powerful and unforgettable experience that pays tribute to resilience and survival.
Watch the trailer HERE!
4. Man of God – 2021 (Movie)
This biographical drama chronicles the life of Saint Nektarios, a revered figure in Greek Orthodox Christianity. Man of God delves into themes of faith, persecution, and redemption, with an outstanding performance by Aris Servetalis. The film’s serene pacing and moving narrative make it an inspiring watch for those looking for spiritual depth.
Watch the trailer HERE!
5. Maestro in Blue – 2022 (Series)
Set on the breathtaking island of Paxoi, Maestro in Blue is more than a love story. With Haris Alexiou, one of the greatest Greek singers, in a pivotal role, the series explores human relationships, resilience, and the struggles of minorities. It celebrates strong women and the bonds that unite communities. Beautifully shot, the series captures the essence of Greek island life, blending it with complex characters and compelling storytelling.
Watch the trailer HERE!
"One Inch of Love" At Theatre Of The No
Saturday, January 25th at 22:30
Theatre of the NO, Athens' first English speaking theatre, presents the musical duo «Polypala», featuring Andreas Polyzogopoulos (trumpet, effects) and Giorgos Palamiotis (bass, effects). On Saturday, January 25th , at 22:30 the duo will take the stage to perform both new material and compositions from their debut album, "One Inch of Love" , a work deeply inspired by nature and dedicated to reconnecting with the natural world.
Through their compositions, the duo creates a new musical "language", capturing the unique, archetypal essence of the Greek landscape, transcending geographical and social boundaries. Their music is influenced by artists such as Harold Budd and Brian Eno, as well as traditional Indonesian gamelan and Japanese gagaku orchestras.
The track titles reference real locations, such as Keros and Mt. Takao, natural phenomena like Apiary Wind and Solstice, and dreamlike moments such as A Cloud Passes Behind the Moon and Trees Breathing by the Sea.
As the artists themselves explain: "The album was recorded under an olive tree at Panagiotis’ apiary, in Tasia and Nikola’s olive grove in Langada, Amorgos, and in the park of Plato’s Academy in Athens. We hope to share some of the images that stayed with us and the emotions we experienced throughout this project."
Event Details
Andreas Polyzogopoulos: trumpet, flugelhorn, electronics
Giorgos Palamiotis: electric bass, soundscapes
CD Preview
Album Release: One Inch of Love is released by Utopia and distributed by Mikri Arktos.
Credits
Photography: Valia Liontou
Poster Design: Sotiria Bramu
Social Media: Kallia Gerakianaki
PR & Communication: Eleftheria Sakareli
Event Date & Ticket Information
Saturday, January 25, at 22:30
Ticket Price: €10
Note: The venue also features a bar with affordable prices (€3 beer, €6 drinks).
«SEX HONESTLY» By Romina Katsikian At Theatre Of The No
About THEATRE OF THE NO
Αn international performing arts centre, creating a colourful and multicultural hub for internationals and locals in the heart of Athens by curating a unique repertoire of artistic productions and performances in English including theatre plays, operas, comedy and music concerts.
DOTS - Urban Discoveries With OTT, Kukan Dub Lagan, Sygnals, Daoine Sidhe
🎵 𝐎𝐓𝐓 | 𝐊𝐮𝐤𝐚𝐧 𝐃𝐮𝐛 𝐋𝐚𝐠𝐚𝐧 | 𝐒𝐲𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐬 | 𝐃𝐚𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐒𝐢𝐝𝐡𝐞
🕤 Door: 21:30
⏳ End: 03:00
- EARLY BIRD €18.00 // SOLD OUT
- PHASE 1 €22.00 // NOW ON SALE
- PHASE 2 / DOOR €25.00
Prepare for an amazing, mind-blowing & unforgettable visual experience.
Angie Ktena | Life Coach & Holistic Practitioner
...Your communication?
...Your relationships?
...Your self-esteem?
...Your well-being?
Self-awareness and acceptance are the keys to growth and a peaceful, happy life. I’m excited to offer my support and guidance to help you achieve this transformation!
