Common Questions Expats Ask When Moving To Greece

Moving to a new country is an exciting chapter, but navigating the administrative labyrinth of Greece can quickly become overwhelming. From understanding your tax residency to managing local banking requirements, the "rules of the road" are often more manual and complex than they appear at first glance. To help you settle in with confidence, we’ve compiled the most frequent questions we receive from the expat community.

To ensure you get the most reliable information, we partnered with TaxWise Greece, who have provided professional replies to all the questions below. Their team specializes in bridging the gap between international expectations and Greek regulatory reality, ensuring that your transition is legally sound and stress-free!

Do I really need a Greek bank account?

 

Legally? No. Practically? Yes.

If you are a Greek tax resident, you must spend at least 30% of your declared income electronically. If you do not meet this threshold, you will pay additional income tax on the uncovered amount.

Greek banks automatically transmit your electronic transactions to the tax system. Foreign banks do not. Tax refunds are credited only to a Greek IBAN.

 

You can, but foreign transactions are not automatically reported. You may need to provide bank statements manually every year. For simplicity and compliance, using a Greek bank account is strongly recommended.

 

No. Rental contracts must be uploaded electronically by the landlord and accepted by you in the tax system.

Without an official online lease:
- Utility bills may remain in the landlord’s name
- You cannot easily prove tax residency
- You may face issues with benefits or contracts

Uploading a lease does not automatically update your tax address. You must update it separately.

 

No. Passport authorities in your home country are not connected to the Greek tax registry. You must update your passport details with the tax office, your bank, and other institutions.

 

No. Tax residency must be formally declared and processed. Moving countries does not automatically change your tax status.

 

No. Your AFM is permanent and remains valid for life. Only your status changes (resident, non-resident, married, self-employed, etc.).

 

 

No. AMKA is issued only if you work in Greece, pay social contributions, or are covered through a spouse. Living in Greece alone does not entitle you to an AMKA.

 

Partially. Some data is pre-filled. However, expats with foreign income, double taxation issues, or special tax regimes require professional review.

 

 

Assuming that Greek administrative systems are interconnected and automatic. They are not. Most updates must be declared manually.

Need Expert Guidance?

Navigating the Greek tax system doesn't have to be a DIY project. If you have more specific questions or need professional assistance with your residency, AFM, or annual filings, you can get in touch with TaxWise Greece here!

Their highly capable team specializes in expat transitions, ensuring you stay fully compliant while avoiding the common pitfalls of the Greek administrative system. Whether you are a digital nomad, a retiree, or a new resident, they provide the clarity and support you need to feel at home in Greece!