Your Guide To AMKA In Greece

AMKA is Greece’s Social Security Number. It is a unique identification number that is needed in order to access healthcare services like visiting a doctor, an optometrist or the dentist.

AMKA is essential for anyone living, working, or retiring in Greece. Without it, your access to most public services in Greece will be limited. With an AMKA number you can:

• Access public healthcare
• Pay social insurance contributions
• Receive pension benefits
• Book medical appointments
• Renew or issue your health booklet

If you’re planning to live, work, run a business, freelance, or retire in Greece long-term, you’ll need an AMKA. Here’s why:

• Medical care: Required for booking hospital or GP visits.
• Employees: Employers use your AMKA to register you for social insurance.
• Pensioners: It’s necessary for pension applications. 
• Self-Employed & Freelancers: You need AMKA to contribute to EFKA, the main national insurance fund.
  
  

To apply for an AMKA, you'll need:

• A valid AFM (Greek tax number): 
• Proof of address in Greece (e.g. rental agreement, E9 document, or hospitality declaration)

For EU Citizens:

You can apply without a residence permit or additional legal documents.

For Non-EU Citizens:

You’ll need a valid residence permit before applying.

You can apply for an AMKA free of charge at:

• Any KEP (Citizens Service Center)
• A KEM (Center for Migrant Integration)
• An EFKA/IKA office

• Passport or national ID
• Residence permit (for non-EU nationals)
• Birth certificate (for minors, translated into Greek)
• AFM number
• Proof of Greek address

An appointment is not required, but be sure to check the operating hours of the specific service location you plan to visit. 

Contact us here if you have questions or would like additional support, our team of experts are here to help make your experience in Greece a smooth one!