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Moving to Greece: Registration and Bureaucracy Guide: EU and EEA citizens staying in Greece for more than 3 months must complete three key registrations. First, obtain a Registration Certificate (Veveosi Eggraphis) from the Police Directorate for Aliens within 3 months of arrival — this costs 10 euros and is required for all subsequent steps. Second, register for a Tax Identification Number (AFM) at your local DOY (tax office), which is required before any employment, property rental, or bank account opening. Third, obtain an AMKA social security number from any KEP Citizens Service Centre, which is required for healthcare access and formal employment. All three procedures are free except the registration certificate fee, and this guide explains each process in full detail.

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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 (Vevaiwsi Eggraphis Politi E.E.)

Police Directorate for Aliens (Elliniki Astynomia)

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 (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 (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