There's a famous saying that you've probably hear someone say, which goes like this: "In this world, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes." In a similar way, taxes are an inevitable part, but they don't have to be daunting.

As an expat in Greece, you'll need a good understanding of how taxation works in this country, so you can sleep peacefully at night and not worry about any disastrous fines. In this guide, we'll walk you through everything that is required to properly file your taxes in Greece.

Becoming a Tax Resident

In order to become a tax resident in Greece, you must follow these steps in the following order to start filing your taxes in Greece.

Getting an AFM 

The first step in becoming a tax-paying resident in Greece, and transferring your tax residency, is by obtaining an AFM. Please note that on the application, you must put a temporary Greek address in order to become a Greek tax resident. For this, you must have a Greek address by signing a lease on an apartment or house, or completing a host declaration form if you're staying with a host, relative or friend.

Note: If you don't have a Greek address, you can first obtain your AFM as a foreign tax resident, obtain your AFM, then send a declaration to change your tax residency status.

Opening a TaxisNet account

In order to open a TaxisNet account, you must hire a tax representative to provide you with the credentials.

Don't know what TaxisNet is? Read our guide titled, What is TaxisNet?

Signing a Property Lease

After you receive an AFM and opening an account on TaxisNet with your credentials, you should be able to accept your electronic rental agreement on this website.

Getting a Residency Permit

Your next step in becoming a tax-paying resident in Greece is to apply for a residency permit. Depending on your residency status, you can file a temporary residency permit, which is usually issued up to 40 days after the application submission.

For EU citizens

If you're a citizen of the EU, you do not need a residence permit, although you will need to obtain an EU registration form or for an EU card from the competent police authorities of Greece which will be allocated according to your place of residence in the county.

You can apply for the said registration either as an independent individual (having at least 5.000 euros in a bank account, Greek or foreign) or as an employee of a Greek entity.

For non-EU citizens

This process is slightly more complex, as in order to apply for a work permit, you must demonstrate a minimum of 5 years of work experience in a relevant field.

Securing employment

In order to legally file taxes, you must either be working for Greek employer or be incorporated in Greece as a sole trader, or as a legal entity.

FAQ

I have a digital nomad visa, can I still pay taxes in Greece?

You must not pay tax in Greece if you have a FIP visa or a digital nomad visa, because in order to become a tax resident of Greece, you must obtain a residency permit and issue an AFM with a Greek address.

Am I eligible for a tax break as an expat in 2024?

To be eligible for a tax reduction, you must have a valid permit as a non-EU or as an EU citizen.

Have any questions? Contact our team or book a free 30-minute consultation call.