If you have visited Greece a few times, you probably understand why so many people feel drawn to it. The landscapes, the food, the people and the general pace of life make it easy to imagine spending more time here. If you are thinking about buying a small holiday place, relocating with your family, or simply staying longer than usual, one of the first practical steps you will come across is the Greek Tax Number, known as AFM in Greek.
It sounds more complicated than it is. It is something almost everyone who plans to do anything official in Greece eventually needs.
What You Use the AFM For
A Greek Tax Number is needed for almost any official activity in the country. Some examples include
- Renting or buying property
- Opening a Greek bank account
- Setting up utilities such as electricity, water, and internet
- Registering a car, scooter, or boat
- Signing contracts for work or business
- Handling property taxes, rental income, or other legal matters
Getting your AFM early makes everything easier, especially if you plan to spend more time in Greece than a normal holiday.
Who Can Get an AFM
Almost everyone can apply for an AFM. This includes EU citizens, non EU citizens, people planning to move to Greece, and even minors or companies with the correct documents. The process is slightly different for EU and non EU applicants.
How EU Citizens Apply
For EU citizens the process is usually simple.
- Ask a local accountant or lawyer to assist you. Most people choose this route.
- Provide your EU passport or ID along with proof of address. This can be in Greece or abroad.
- Your representative submits the documents to the local tax office.
- You receive your permanent nine digit AFM which you can use for all financial and legal matters in Greece.
How Non EU Citizens Apply
Non EU citizens follow similar steps with a few extra documents.
- Appoint an accountant or lawyer in Greece, which is essential.
- Prepare the following• Passport• Proof of your home country address• A Greek address, even a temporary rental• The official application form• Power of attorney if you will not appear in person
- Your accountant submits everything to the tax office for review.
- Once approved, you receive your AFM.
- You can now open a bank account, rent or buy property, set up utilities, and complete official paperwork.
It is important to note that the AFM does not give the right to live full time in Greece. Long term stays require the correct visa or residency permit.
Your Responsibilities After Receiving an AFM
- Once you have a Greek Tax Number, a few responsibilities come with it.
- Filing an annual tax return, usually through an accountant
- Keeping copies of contracts and official documents
- Paying any taxes related to property or income
- Using your AFM for all official transactions
- Updating your address or personal information when needed
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using someone else’s AFM, which is illegal
- Delaying your application if you plan to buy or rent property
- Not working with a qualified accountant
- Forgetting to keep important documents or waiting too long to submit annual returns
Getting Help
Most people use a local accountant. Some agencies and relocation services can also guide you or connect you with someone reliable. This support helps avoid delays, especially if you are applying from abroad.
Whether you are exploring the idea of living in Greece or simply want your longer stays to run more smoothly, getting your AFM is an important step. Once you have it, many other things such as banking, utilities, and rentals become much easier.
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