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Tuesday, 21 January 2025 22:04

All You Need To Know About ENFIA Property Tax In Greece

ENFIA, introduced in 2014 through Law 4223/2013, 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 1 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, which determines the taxable amount. 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, floor level, and other criteria. 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 payable to avoid unexpected 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 only and is 5.5% of the property’s value—a significant amount. However, this is reduced to 1% if the property is used for business purposes, such as a warehouse for a plumbing company storing supplies and serving clients.

In addition to ENFIA, there is also a property transfer tax of 3.09% when purchasing property. Some exemptions or deductions may apply depending on age and income.

You will be notified about your ENFIA tax assessment through the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). It’s important to include ENFIA and other taxes in your budget and decision-making process when purchasing property. For example, a property valued at €250,000 could cost €275,000 after accounting for taxes, including the property transfer tax.

When Do I Have to Pay the ENFIA Tax?

Once you receive your ENFIA tax bill, you have two options:

Pay it in full by the end of the month in which you received the tax assessment.
Pay it in 10 monthly installments.

To transfer a property as part of a sale, the owner must provide an ENFIA certificate confirming that all ENFIA taxes for the past years have been paid and there are no outstanding debts. This ensures the property is free of any financial liabilities before transferring ownership. A Notary Public will verify this information.

How Can I Get an ENFIA Assessment?

Follow these steps to receive your ENFIA assessment:

Own property in Greece: Whether you purchase, inherit, or already own real estate in Greece, you must file the necessary paperwork.
Submit your E9 form: This form is submitted when you acquire property. You can complete it online through the AADE portal, but you must first register your details if you haven’t already.
Complete the E9 form: Provide accurate details about the property, such as its location, size, age, and floor level. This information determines your ENFIA tax calculation.
Receive your tax assessment notification: Once the E9 form is submitted, the system calculates your tax. You’ll receive a notification via email or through the AADE portal, detailing both the main and supplementary taxes.
Pay the ENFIA tax: As noted, you can pay the tax in full or in installments.

We recommend reaching out early in your property purchase process to ensure everything is handled smoothly and efficiently. If you need assistance with your ENFIA tax payment, the team of experts at Tsaks Consulting is here to help.

General Comments about ENFIA

If you’re from abroad, you may already be familiar with property taxes similar to ENFIA. However, ENFIA is a sensitive topic for many Greeks, as it was introduced during the financial crisis. Some property owners have been forced to sell their homes due to an inability to pay the tax. While ENFIA may not seem substantial compared to a property’s value, it’s an expense all buyers should account for.

For those purchasing high-end properties, particularly in desirable locations, the ENFIA tax can be significant. This is especially true for houses compared to apartments. Understanding and budgeting for ENFIA is essential for a seamless property purchase experience.

If you need help with your ENFIA tax obligations or any other aspect of property and living in Greece, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!

This content has been created in collaboration with our trusted partner Tsaks Consulting.

Published in Accounting & Taxes

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Wednesday, 18 February 2015 13:30

Kythera

Wonderful for its exciting contrasts, the island of Kýthera has been home to hosts of peoples and civilizations: from the Neolithic Age to the Minoan times (20th century AC) and to the Mycenaens, the Dorians and the Spartans, still in the ancient times; from the Byzantine middle ages to the Venetian rule; from the Ottoman to the English occupation; from the State of the Ionian Islands to the modern Greek State which it joined in 1864.

The ancient myth that referred the island as Aphrodite’s birthplace has been the inspiration for the paintings of celebrated artists such as Sandro Botticelli and Jean-Antoine Watteau. Now, a trip to Kýthera is the symbol of a burning desire, of hankering for beauty; and not unjustly so.

Chóra, the capital of the island, stretches out around the Venetian castle of the 13th century - renovated by the Venetians in 1503 - to share with it an overwhelming view to the Cretan Sea. On the cliffs around the castle a small yellow jewel of a flower grows; sempreviva is peculiar to the island. White little houses squeeze each other to fit in the narrow cobbled streets that go whirling uphill and past tiny little churches and Venetian mansions with beautiful gardens. Your need for a rest will be met at the cafés of the two scenic squares of the village. But if you feel like having a delicious meal or a drink, walk downhill to Kapsáli.

Kapsáli could be said to be the busiest spot for tourists. Full of cafés, tavernas, bars and boasting a marina too, Kapsáli is where the night of the island turns energetic and eager for a meeting and romance. The number of the aficionados of the island is a multi-digit one. Most of them agree that Avlémonas is the most beautiful village of it. Crystal blue-azul waters bathe the frisky morphology of little bays to match with the cycladic architecture of the houses and the cobblestone paths around them into an attractive ambience of recreation and wellness.

To read more, please see visitgreece.gr

Published in Travel Greece

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Monday, 13 April 2020 06:00

Fassolakia Lathera - Green Bean Casserole

Vegetable dishes that are cooked with olive oil and tomatoes are referred to as lathera (lah-the-RAH) in Greek, because the key ingredient is flavorful olive oil, or “lathi.” The most popular vegetable to make "lathera style" is the green bean, but you can try this dish with small zucchini, okra, or peppers as well. This version includes some potatoes and baby carrots (I find the carrots sweeten the sauce a bit) and can be a delicious vegetarian entrée or a tasty side dish.

Try serving it with some crumbled feta on top and some great bread for dipping in the savory sauce.

Serves: 8
Difficulty: Easy

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooks in: 1 hour

Ingredients

• 1 kl. green beans, cleaned and trimmed
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2-3 medium potatoes, cut in large wedges
• A large handful of baby carrots
• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tbsp. tomato paste
• 4-5 ripe tomatoes, skinned and crushed (substitute 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes)
• 1½ cups warm water
• 1 tsp. sugar
• 1 tbsp. chopped fresh dill
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Method

In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium high heat. Add the onion and saute until translucent. Add the garlic and saute until fragrant, about one minute.

Add the green beans, potatoes, and carrots to the pot. Dissolve the tomato paste in the water and add, along with the crushed tomatoes, parsley, and sugar. Lower the heat to medium low and simmer covered for about an hour or until the green beans are tender but not mushy.

In the last ten minutes of cooking, add the chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Note: Make sure to monitor your liquid levels while the beans are cooking. You can add a little bit of water if needed.

Recipe Source: The Spruce Eats

Published in Greek Food & Diet

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Friday, 06 March 2015 12:51

Greeks In Germany Organize Rally To Support Greek Gov’t

Greeks in Germany are calling on all the Diaspora members and European citizens to support the Greek government’s struggle against international creditors.

Using the slogan “Europe with Democracy and Solidarity” they have organized a campaign through social media, in support of their homeland.

They urged citizens of Italy, Spain, Portugal, as well as other European countries to participate in the rally to show support towards the Greek government in this time of need.

To read more, please visit greekreporter.com

By Ioanna Zikakou

Published in Greece In The News

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Friday, 08 May 2015 08:00

35 Greek Olive Oils Awarded 'Best In The World' For 2015

Thirty-five extra virgin olive oils from Greece have achieved the distinction “Best in the World” for 2015 at the New York International Olive Oil Competition (NYIOOC), a much stronger showing than in 2014 and a clear sign that the determination of olive oil producers in Greece is paying off.

Twenty-one percent of Greek entries in the world’s largest and most prestigious olive oil quality contest were awarded this time, a lower success rate than rival producer countries Spain and Italy, but a marked improvement over last year’s tally. Nineteen Gold Awards and 16 Silver Awards went to Greek oils. To see a list of the best Greek olive oils for 2015, please click HERE.

Greece submitted more entries (168) in the annual competition than any other country, an indication that producers are striving for quality and to distinguish their brands in the marketplace.

“Winning at the NYIOOC was a big honor for our family,” said Diamantis Pierrakos, who was in New York with his brother Dino to accept the award for the Gold Award-winning brand, Laconiko. “Being recognized at this very prestigious competition has proven to us that our hard work and sacrifices we have made are finally paying off. This distinct recognition is a message that our family, from the small region of Lakonia, Greece, produce one of the world’s best extra virgin olive oils.”

Greek producers have long sold their olive oils in bulk to foreign producers who used the robust kick of the mostly Koroneiki varietals to lift the taste of inferior blends. In recent years, even in the midst of a wrenching economic crisis, Greek olive oil companies have unveiled new, innovative brands while stepping up the quality of their products.

“Greek olive oil quality is trending higher,” said Curtis Cord, NYIOOC president. “What we are seeing now is the rise of Greek olive oil brands to the world stage, a stage on which they rightfully belong.”

To read more, please visit Olive Oil Times

Published in Local News

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Sunday, 02 July 2017 01:08

The Meaning Of Philotimo

The word 'philotimo' only exists in the Greek language. Its direct translation means 'to honour your friend', but its actual meaning in day-to-day life delves much deeper. This video is an incredible description and understanding of this uniquely Greek word.

Read more about philotimo in an excellent article from the BBC.

Published in Videos

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Thursday, 15 October 2015 07:00

Athens Ranks 1st Among 25 Most Influential Cities In The World

Two Greek cities, that have always been a magnet for art and culture, were included on the list of the 25 cities with the greatest impact on the world.

More specifically, the capital of Greece, Athens, ranked in first place in the list that was compiled by List25, the website that gathers and presents lesser-known intriguing information on a variety of subjects, while at #22 one can find Olympia, in western Peloponnese.

“Birthplace of Western civilization, Athens is the most influential city ever in the fields of philosophy, architecture, politics, science, and free thinking, as well as the original home of what is considered the most ideal system of government: democracy,” the website reads while it continues, referring: “Athens also became the first city to organize the first modern Olympics back in 1896. Some of its most famous citizens include giants such as Socrates, Plato, Solon, and Pericles.”

To read more and see the full list of the 25 cities, please visit: Greek Reporter

Published in Greece In The News

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Thursday, 16 June 2016 07:00

Athenian Smoke-Free Hangouts

Nowadays, as the negative impacts of smoking become more prevalent and people are opting to quit, more restaurants, cafés, and bars are joining in the fight for smoke-free restaurants!

Since the 2009 law, smoking is supposedly forbidden in all public indoor places and all businesses supposedly comply. That’s why, in most places, you will see non-smoking signs – even though the owners will inform you that smoking is in fact allowed – and why you won’t see any ashtrays – even though you will be offered some sort of improvised ash dispenser, (like a plastic cup or a small plate) on the sly, if you profess to be a smoker. As one complying owner said to me “this was not a war on smoke, but a war on ashtrays.”

Following is a list of Athenian downtown spaces which are smoke-free in theory and in practice, and where exceptions are never made. However, bear in mind that in the summer most places have their doors and windows open and smoke from outside often creeps in.

1. 42

Address: 3 Kolokotroni
Telephone: 694.824.2455
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00 – 02:00, Sat-Sun 12:00 – 03:00
Website: Click here

The owner of one of the most respected cocktail bars in the city is a smoker, and yet he doesn’t want his workspace full of smoke. His clients respect that and step outside for a cigarette, socializing with other smokers in the process. Wood paneling, art deco elements and subdued lighting set the tone for a unique experience at bar 42, where what you end up drinking may be the result of a psychotherapeutic encounter with the barman. According to a footnote on the menu, all you need to do is tell him a few things about yourself and your preferences, and he will come up with a cocktail tailored just for you.

2. CAKE

Address: 15 Herodotou
Telephone: 210.721.2253
Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 08:00 – 22:00, Sat-Sun 09:00 – 21:00
Website: Click here

Cake used to be a tiny bakery in Kolonaki, one of Athens’ most posh areas, with delicious American-style cakes. About eight years ago it changed location and became a café while, a year ago, it changed owner. However, it still remains one of the cutest coffee & cake places in the city with a wide selection of cakes catering to all tastes. The owner recommends a slice of carrot cake, or his all time favorite, the ‘Red Velvet.’ Cake is an ideal hangout after a visit to one of the museums or galleries in the area and religiously smoke-free for the sake of its clients, who, in the mornings, are mostly elderly people.

3. MAKALO

Address: 23 Nikis, Syntagma
Telephone: 211.406.7032
Opening Hours: 12:00 – 23:00
Website: Click here

Makalo opened four years ago and has become a popular haunt because of its fine cuisine at affordable prices. Smoke-free because the owners wanted their customers to enjoy their food without the taste of smoke, they initially met with a lot of opposition from smokers, but now have regulars, who will always choose quality of food over smoke. Favorite dishes among the regulars are the chicken fillet in tomato sauce with mushrooms and Greek trahanas (cracked wheat with fermented milk) and the grilled salmon fillet with sauté zucchini, lime sauce, peppermint and brown rice. The chef recommends spinach pesto tagliatelle with almonds, fresh tomato, olives and feta cheese and make sure you try their homemade lemonade.

4. MAMA ROUX

Address: 48 Eolou
Telephone: 213.004.8382
Opening Hours: Mon: 10:00 – 18:30 (breakfast 10:00 – 12:30), Tue-Sat 10:00 – 00:30 (breakfast 10:00 – 12:30), Sun 12:30 – 18:00 (brunch only)
Website: Click here

Mama Roux, on the pedestrian Eolou Street, opened in 2011 with a multi-cultural staff and a multi-ethnic cuisine, and quickly became a favorite among locals who enjoy its food and easy-going atmosphere. For John, its American owner who moved to Greece 12 years ago, having a non-smoking establishment was more about taking a stand than complying with the law, and even though, during the first weeks, many clients fought against his choice, he also received good press for making a serious commitment. For him, it was also an aesthetic and ethical issue; he wanted his employees to work in a smoke-free environment and his clients to be given a smoke-free option. Mama Roux is a popular destination for Sunday brunch, but make sure you make a reservation ahead of time.

5. NOLAN

Address: 31-33 Voulis
Telephone: 210.324. 3545
Opening Hours: Tue-Sat 13:00 – 00:00, Sun 12:00 – 17:30
Website: Click here

Named after Christopher Nolan, the owner’s favorite director, this downtown restaurant has opened quite recently and yet customers are already swooning over the fusion dishes of its Greek-Japanese chef. Marble, mosaic, wood and metal create the set for a multi ethnic culinary journey via an inspired menu; where a Vietnamese chicken soup can co-exist harmoniously with Nolan’s version of fried chicken (NFC) and a dish of shrimps with Greek stamnagathi (a leafy green) and Turkish soutzouki (a kind of sausage). Kostas, the owner, a fanatic smoker, opted for a non-smoking restaurant because food and smoke simply do not go together and “any restaurateur who claims that he does not forbid smoking for fear of losing his clientele, is simply trying to hide his shortcomings. If what you offer is good, you will always have clients.”

For more suggestions on Athenian hangouts without smoke, please visit: Greece Is

You may also like to read: Scenic And Smoke-Free Cafes In Athens

Published in Restaurants In Athens

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Thursday, 08 April 2021 17:03

Hiking Mount Ymittos In Athens

Sometimes the best-kept secrets are hidden in plain sight. Mount Ymittos forms the natural eastern boundary of Athens. Here, the dense city grid suddenly gives way to a tree-covered slope dotted with monasteries. This is the ‘Aesthetic Forest of Kesariani,’ a protected nature reserve that is a quick 15-20 minute drive or cab ride from central Athens. Just minutes from the urban hustle of Athens the walkable delights of Mount Ymittos offer a heady escape of nature, wildlife, historic monasteries and heavenly honey.

Upon arrival you’ll quickly notice that the lack of development is part of the charm of this route. Despite its proximity to the city, you feel off grid and in discovery mode. Keeping the city as a very visible landmark, it is difficult to get lost here—but easy to feel like it. This hike will have you exploring rich olives groves, a 12th century monastery, the ruins of an old Christian basilica, a Botanical Walk, and a whole lot more!

For complete details and route information visit: thisisathens.org

Photo by: Manos Chatzikonstantis

Whether you've just arrived in town – or have been here for years – Athens always has new secrets to share!

This is Athens is the official guide to this captivating city of ancient energies and booming urban culture. Compiled by a team of specialist local writers, This is Athens brings you an authentic and intimate portrait of a living Athens beyond the guidebooks – along with daily curated listings of all the best events and great weekend inspiration all-year round. From must-know neighbourhoods and emerging art hubs, to gourmet hotspots, cool shopping and the buzziest bars, This is Athens will help you to get the most out of living in Athens!

Thank you This is Athens for your contribution as an XpatAthens Partner.

Published in City Discovery

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Monday, 11 April 2022 07:00

5 Car-Free Greek Islands

For most people having to live without their car is rather challenging, but there are numerous benefits to leading a car-free lifestyle, even if it is only for a while. Think, for example, not having to worry about where to park or how to avoid a traffic jam. Especially, when you find yourself on an island where the road networks aren’t the best.

If you want to experience the stress-free feeling of moving from place to place with no other equipment aside from a comfortable pair of shoes, these 5 islands are ideal destinations for holidays without a car!

Hydra

@ifigeniakrikeli

Located in the heart of the Argo Saronic Gulf, Hydra is one of the most cosmopolitan and affluent islands of Greece, and since it’s very close to Athens, it is a great weekend destination. The island is rich in history and archaeological interest and has managed to retain its traditional charm. Cars and motorcycles aren’t allowed there, and the best way to explore its cobblestone streets is on foot!

Kalamos Island

@anthedarma

Located east of Lefkada, Kalamos may not be the typical Greek destination you see on postcards, but it sure is the ideal choice if you are looking for the authentic Greek way of living. It is a tall mountain range that floats on the sea, its northern side overgrowing with towering, thick pine trees and its coast lined up with numerous pebbly coves, often accessible only by sea. You don’t need a car to explore the island, and the few cars you may come across are mainly used for transporting goods.

Donousa

Donousa

@cecile433

The northernmost island of the Small Eastern Cyclades, Donousa is located east of the island of Naxos. With an area of just thirteen square kilometers, you can walk around it on foot and discover not only its lovely beaches with crystalline waters but also its hiking trails. Some beaches are accessible only by boat, while the island has two taxis.

Kastelorizo

@my_greek_vacation

On the easternmost edge of Greece lies one of the smallest and most charming islands of the Dodecanese complex, Kastellorizo. Except for the one taxi on the island, it is otherwise a peaceful, car-free oasis with a rich history dating back to the early Neolithic era. The Castle of the Knights of Saint John on the reddish rock above the port is one of the island’s must-see attractions.

Leipsoi

Leipsoi

@stef_greece

Leipsoi is a small cluster of islets in the northern part of the Dodecanese famous for its relaxed atmosphere and its magical beaches, making it a perfect destination for laid-back holidays. Distances are short, so you don’t need a car, but you can rent a motorbike or hop on a bus or minibus if you don’t like walking.

Published in Travel Greece

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All You Need To Know About ENFIA Property Tax In Greece

Kythera

Fassolakia Lathera - Green Bean Casserole

Greeks In Germany Organize Rally To Support Greek Gov’t

35 Greek Olive Oils Awarded 'Best In The World' For 2015

The Meaning Of Philotimo

Athens Ranks 1st Among 25 Most Influential Cities In The World

Athenian Smoke-Free Hangouts

Hiking Mount Ymittos In Athens

5 Car-Free Greek Islands

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