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Greece

Capital: Athens

Last verified: 2026-02-20

Fees, fines, and deadlines are approximate and may change. Always verify with official sources.

Key Registrations & Procedures

Registration Certificate (Βεβαίωση Εγγραφής Πολίτη Ε.Ε.)

Police Directorate for Aliens (Ελληνική Αστυνομία)

Deadline: Apply within 3 months of arrival for stays over 3 months
Processing Time: 1–4 weeks. Certificate issued on completion of review.
💰Fees: €10
📅Appointment: Required at Police Aliens Bureau in most cities. Walk-in in smaller areas.
Required Documents:
  • Valid passport or EU/EEA national ID card
  • Proof of address — rental contract (μισθωτήριο) registered on AADE platform, or utility bill
  • Proof of employment (εργασιακή σύμβαση / work contract) OR proof of self-employment OR proof of sufficient funds (bank statement ~€500/month) and health insurance (EHIC or private)
  • 3 passport-sized photos
  • Completed application form (available at the police station)
Where to Do It:

Police Directorate for Aliens — in Athens: Petrou Ralli 24, Tavros. In Thessaloniki: Police HQ for Central Macedonia. Other cities: local police station with alien bureau.

If You Don't Do It:

Fines of approximately €50–€200 for late application. Without the certificate you may not be able to get an AFM (tax number), AMKA (social security), or access Greek healthcare.

Regional Variations: Athens has the highest volume and longest waits. Islands may have limited office hours.
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Tax Registration Number (ΑΦΜ / AFM)

Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE)

Deadline: Required before starting employment or any taxable activity
Processing Time: Same day if applied in person. Online applications: 1–3 days.
💰Fees: Free
📅Appointment: No appointment needed at most DOY (tax offices). Walk-in.
Required Documents:
  • Valid passport or EU national ID card
  • Proof of address in Greece (rental contract registered on AADE or utility bill)
  • Registration certificate from police (or application receipt)
  • Completed M1 form (available at the DOY or online)
  • Power of attorney (if using a representative/accountant)
Where to Do It:

Your local DOY (Δημόσια Οικονομική Υπηρεσία — tax office). In Athens: DOY for your municipality. Online registration also possible via myaade.gov.gr with taxisnet credentials.

If You Don't Do It:

May not be able to be employed, rent property, open a bank account, or conduct virtually any transaction without an AFM. Greece requires AFM for buying property, signing contracts, and even some retail purchases.

Regional Variations: Same system nationwide. Each municipality has a designated DOY.
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Social Security Number (ΑΜΚΑ / AMKA)

Citizens' Service Centres (KEP)

Deadline: Must obtain before starting employment or accessing healthcare
Processing Time: Same day — issued immediately at KEP.
💰Fees: Free
📅Appointment: No appointment needed. Walk-in at any KEP.
Required Documents:
  • Valid passport or EU national ID card
  • AFM (tax registration number)
  • Proof of address in Greece
  • Registration certificate from police
Where to Do It:

Any KEP (Κέντρο Εξυπηρέτησης Πολιτών — Citizens Service Centre). KEP offices are available in virtually every municipality. Find your nearest one at kep.gov.gr.

If You Don't Do It:

May not be able to access Greek public healthcare (ESY), be formally employed, or receive social benefits without AMKA.

Regional Variations: Same process nationwide. KEP offices are available everywhere including islands.
Visit Official Website