Moving to Greece

Greece has long attracted expats with its warm Mediterranean climate, stunning islands, world-class cuisine, and famously welcoming culture. Whether you are drawn to Athens for career opportunities, Thessaloniki for its vibrant food scene, or one of the sun-soaked islands for a slower pace of life, this guide covers every practical step you need — from visas and tax numbers to healthcare, housing, and cultural integration. Greece remains one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, making it an increasingly popular destination for remote workers, retirees, and families alike.

This guide is designed for EU citizens, non-EU nationals, digital nomads, and retirees who want a clear, up-to-date roadmap for relocating to Greece in 2026.

Greece at a Glance

Why Move to Greece in 2026

• Affordable Cost of Living: Greece is significantly cheaper than most Western European countries, with lower rents, dining, and everyday expenses — especially outside Athens.
• Warm Mediterranean Climate: Over 250 days of sunshine per year in most regions, with mild winters that rarely drop below 10 °C in coastal areas.
• Non-Dom Tax Regime: Foreign pensioners can benefit from a flat 7% tax rate on foreign income under Greece's Non-Domiciled tax regime, making it highly attractive for retirees.
• Digital Nomad Visa: Greece now offers a dedicated Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers earning income from outside Greece, with a 50% income tax reduction for the first seven years.
• Rich Culture and Philoxenia: Greek hospitality — known as philoxenia (literally "love of strangers") — is deeply embedded in daily life, making newcomers feel genuinely welcome.
• Excellent Food and Lifestyle: Fresh Mediterranean cuisine, late dinners, outdoor living, and a family-oriented culture create a quality of life that consistently ranks among the best in Europe.

Moving Costs to Greece

Understanding the financial aspects of your move is crucial for proper planning.

Component Costs Explained

• Transportation: €800–€3,000 depending on distance and whether you use road, sea, or air freight.
• Insurance: €100–€400 for transit insurance covering damage or loss during the move.
• Customs Clearance: €200–€500 for shipments arriving from outside the EU, including documentation and inspection fees.
• Packing Materials: €150–€400 for boxes, wrapping, and specialty containers for fragile items.
• Storage (if needed): €50–€150 per month at facilities in Athens or Thessaloniki.
• Administrative Fees: €100–€300 for notarized inventories, translations, and consular paperwork.

Visa & Residency Requirements

Greece's immigration system treats EU/EEA citizens and third-country nationals very differently. Understanding which category you fall into is the critical first step.

For EU/EEA Citizens

EU and EEA citizens have the right to live and work in Greece without a visa. Upon arrival, you must register at your local municipality (Δημαρχείο / Dimarchío) to obtain a Registration Certificate (Βεβαίωση Εγγραφής / Vevaíosi Engrafís). You will need:

• A valid passport or national ID card
• Proof of employment, self-employment, study, or sufficient financial resources
• Proof of health insurance (European Health Insurance Card or Greek coverage)
• Proof of address (rental contract or utility bill)

Registration must be completed within three months of arrival. The process is straightforward but can involve waiting times at municipal offices — bring all documents and be prepared for multiple visits.

Greek Tax Number (AFM) — Your Essential First Step

The AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου / Arithmós Forologikoú Mitróou) is the Greek tax identification number. It is arguably the single most important piece of paperwork you will obtain in Greece — without it, you cannot:

• Sign a rental contract
• Open a bank account
• Register for employment
• Access public healthcare
• Pay utility bills in your name
• Purchase property

Tip: The AFM process is free, but the bureaucracy can be slow. Arrive early, bring copies of every document, and consider hiring an accountant (logistís / λογιστής) for your first visit. Many accountants charge €50–€100 for this service and can save you hours of waiting.

Social Security Number (AMKA)

The AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης / Arithmós Mitróou Koinonikís Asfálisis) is your Greek social security number. It is required for:

• Accessing public healthcare through EOPYY
• Employment registration
• Receiving prescriptions and pharmacy services
• Pension contributions

Tip: KEP offices (Κέντρα Εξυπηρέτησης Πολιτών) are one-stop citizen service centres that handle AFM, AMKA, and many other registrations. They are generally faster and more organised than individual government offices.

Finding Housing in Greece

The Greek rental market favours tenants once a contract is signed, but finding the right property can be competitive in Athens. Most rentals are unfurnished, and furnished apartments command a 20–40% premium. Long-term leases are the norm, typically signed for 1–3 years with automatic renewal unless notice is given.

Average Rents by Major City (2026)

Greek Rent Terminology

• Enoikío (ενοίκιο): The base monthly rent, quoted before utilities.
• Exódα (έξοδα): Building maintenance fees — covering shared areas, lifts, stairwell cleaning, and communal repairs. Typically €30–€100/month depending on the building.
• Kalokeriní / Himeriní (καλοκαιρινή / χειμερινή): Seasonal rental rates — summer properties on islands can be significantly cheaper in winter, and winter rates can spike in summer.

How to Find Housing

Online Platforms:

• Spitogatos.gr: Greece's largest property portal with extensive listings across all cities
• Xe.gr: Classifieds platform with a strong rental section
• Facebook Groups: "Athens Apartments for Rent," "Expats in Athens Housing," and city-specific groups are very active

Local Resources:

• Real estate agents (Mεσίτες / Mesítes): Commonly used; expect a fee of one month's rent, paid by the tenant
• Word of mouth: Many landlords in smaller cities prefer renting through personal connections

Tips for Foreigners Finding Housing

• View properties in person before committing — online photos can be misleading
• Ask about the energy certificate (Πιστοποιητικό Ενεργειακής Απόδοσης), which affects heating costs
• Confirm whether the property is registered for short-term or long-term rental — legal protections differ
• Negotiate — especially for longer leases or off-season moves
• Ensure the landlord provides a proper contract, as informal arrangements leave you unprotected

Rental Agreement & Legal Protection

Greek rental law is generally tenant-friendly. Landlords must give at least two months' notice to end a lease, while tenants typically give one month. Security deposits are usually one to two months' rent. Rental income must be declared by the landlord, so legitimate contracts protect both parties. Contracts should be registered with the tax authority (AADE) via the landlord's Taxisnet account.

Warning: Rental Scams

• Never transfer money before viewing the property in person
• Be wary of listings significantly below market price
• Verify the landlord's ownership through the Hellenic Land Registry (Κτηματολόγιο)
• Avoid paying in cash without a signed contract and receipt

Healthcare & Insurance

Greece operates a dual healthcare system: a public system funded through social security contributions and a robust private sector. Quality varies significantly between urban centres and rural areas or islands, so most expats in smaller locations rely on private care.

Top Insurance Providers

• Interamerican: One of Greece's largest private insurers, offering comprehensive health plans with extensive hospital networks
• Eurolife ERB: Strong expat-oriented plans with English-language support and international coverage
• Ethniki Insurance (National Insurance): A legacy provider with broad coverage options and competitive family plans

Out-of-Pocket Costs

• GP visit (public): Free with EOPYY card
• GP visit (private): €30–€60
• Specialist visit (private): €50–€120
• Prescriptions: Subsidised 25–75% through EOPYY; full price typically €5–€30 per medication
• Dental (private): €40–€150 for routine procedures
• Hospital stay (private): €150–€400/day

Banking & Finance

Opening a Bank Account

• When: As soon as you have your AFM — it is required for the account
• Required documents: Passport or national ID, AFM certificate, proof of Greek address (rental contract or utility bill), and sometimes proof of income
• Top banks for expats:
• National Bank of Greece (Εθνική Τράπεζα): The largest bank with extensive branch and ATM networks; offers English-language online banking
• Alpha Bank: Strong digital platform and multilingual customer service; popular with younger expats
• Eurobank: Competitive fee structures and good mobile banking app
• Piraeus Bank: Wide branch coverage across Greece, including islands; good for everyday banking

Greek Credit System

Greece does not have a centralised credit scoring system like the US FICO score. Creditworthiness is assessed by individual banks based on income, employment history, existing debt, and banking relationship. Building a good relationship with your local branch manager can be more important than any formal score.

Bank Account Features & Costs

• Monthly fee: €0–€6 depending on bank and account type
• Debit card: Usually free or included with account
• Credit card: €20–€50 annual fee; requires proof of regular income
• International transfers (SEPA): Free or minimal fees within the EU
• International transfers (SWIFT): €15–€40 per transaction

Payment Culture

Cash remains king in Greece, especially outside Athens and major tourist areas. Card acceptance has grown significantly since 2020, and contactless payments are now common in supermarkets, chains, and larger restaurants. However, many smaller tavernas, kiosks (períptera), and island businesses still prefer or only accept cash. Always carry some euros, particularly when visiting islands or rural areas. Mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are accepted at major retailers but not universally.

Cost of Living in Greece

Greece is one of the most affordable countries in Western Europe, and costs drop substantially outside Athens.

Monthly Budget Breakdown by City

Detailed Cost Breakdown

Housing:

• 1-bedroom apartment (Athens centre): €650–€900
• 1-bedroom apartment (Thessaloniki): €450–€650
• 3-bedroom apartment (Athens centre): €1,100–€1,600
• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, rubbish, internet): €120–€200

Groceries & Food:

• Weekly groceries (1 person): €40–€60
• Casual taverna meal: €8–€15 per person
• Mid-range restaurant meal: €15–€30 per person
• Coffee (freddo espresso): €2.50–€4

Transportation:

• Monthly public transport pass (Athens): €30
• Monthly public transport pass (Thessaloniki): €30
• Taxi (city centre, short trip): €4–€7
• Petrol (per litre): €1.70–€1.95

Insurance & Healthcare:

• Private health insurance (individual): €50–€200/month

Leisure & Entertainment:

• Gym membership: €25–€50/month
• Cinema ticket: €7–€10
• Streaming services: €8–€15/month

Comparison with Other Countries

• vs Germany: 30–40% cheaper overall, particularly in rent, dining, and transport
• vs United Kingdom: 35–50% cheaper, with significantly lower housing costs
• vs Spain: Roughly comparable, with Greece slightly cheaper for groceries and dining but similar rent levels in capital cities
• vs United States: 40–55% cheaper, especially in healthcare, rent, and food

Tax Obligations for Expats

Tax Residency

You become a Greek tax resident if you spend more than 183 days per year in Greece or if your "centre of vital interests" (primary home, family, economic ties) is in Greece. Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income.

Income Tax Rates (2026)

Non-Dom Tax Regime

Greece offers a special Non-Domiciled (Non-Dom) tax status for individuals who transfer their tax residence to Greece:

• Foreign pensioners: A flat 7% tax on all foreign-sourced income (pensions, investments, rental income abroad) for 15 years
• Digital nomads and remote workers: 50% income tax exemption on Greek-sourced employment income for 7 years
• Requirements: Must not have been a Greek tax resident for 7 of the 8 years before relocating to qualify for the investment-based Non-Dom route (€100,000 flat tax). The 50% employment income exemption (Article 5C) requires not being a Greek tax resident for 5 of the 6 years prior.

Double Taxation Treaties

Greece has signed double taxation agreements with over 60 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU member states. These treaties prevent you from being taxed twice on the same income. Consult a Greek accountant (logistís) to navigate treaty provisions and file correctly.

Customs & Import Rules

Personal Belongings

Used household goods can be imported duty-free if they have been owned and personally used for at least six months and are intended for your continued personal use. You will need:

• A detailed inventory (translated into Greek or English)
• Proof of residence transfer (rental contract, utility bill, or residence permit)
• Bill of lading or airway bill
• Passport and AFM

Shipments from within the EU face no customs duties — only potential VAT checks. Shipments from outside the EU may be inspected at the port of entry (Piraeus, Thessaloniki, or Patras).

Restricted and Prohibited Items

• Alcohol and tobacco: Subject to personal limits; quantities above the threshold incur import duties and excise tax
• Medications: Bring a doctor's prescription and only a personal supply; some medications controlled elsewhere may be freely available in Greece, and vice versa
• Firearms: Strictly regulated; require a Greek police permit obtained in advance
• Food items: Fresh meat and dairy from non-EU countries are generally prohibited

Real-life case: "When I moved from London to Athens, I prepared a detailed inventory of all my used household items and submitted it to Greek customs. Under Greece's transfer of residence rules, my shipment was cleared smoothly and exempt from additional duties." — Nikos K.

Pet Relocation

Pets entering Greece must have:

• A microchip (ISO 11784/11785 standard)
• Valid rabies vaccination (administered at least 21 days before travel for primary vaccination)
• EU Pet Passport or third-country veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel
• Tapeworm treatment (for dogs, administered 1–5 days before entry)

Pets from non-EU countries may need additional certified documentation and could face checks at the border. Notify Greek veterinary authorities in advance, and consider using a professional pet relocation service to manage paperwork and transport logistics.

Importing a Car and Driver's Licence Exchange

Importing a Vehicle

Vehicles from outside the EU must be declared to Greek Customs and may be subject to import duties, VAT (24%), and registration tax (Τέλος Κυκλοφορίας). EU-registered vehicles can be imported duty-free but must be re-registered with the Ministry of Transport within a set timeframe. All imported vehicles must pass a technical inspection (ΚΤΕΟ / KTEO). Required documents include the original registration, proof of ownership, and conformity certificates.

Driver's Licence Exchange

• EU/EEA licences: Valid in Greece for the duration of their validity — no exchange required, but you may choose to exchange voluntarily
• Non-EU licences: Generally valid for 185 days after establishing residency. After that, you must exchange your licence at the local transport office (Υπηρεσία Μεταφορών). Some countries have bilateral agreements that waive driving tests; others may require a written and practical exam

Language & Culture Tips

Do You Need Greek?

In central Athens, Thessaloniki's centre, and major tourist islands (Santorini, Mykonos, Corfu), English is widely spoken and you can manage daily life without Greek. However, once you leave tourist zones — into neighbourhoods, smaller cities, rural areas, or most islands — Greek becomes essential for bureaucracy, shopping, healthcare, and social integration. Learning at least conversational Greek is strongly recommended for anyone planning to stay more than a year.

Greek Language Levels (CEFR)

• A1 (Beginner): Basic greetings, ordering food, asking for directions — achievable in 3–4 months of regular study
• A2 (Elementary): Simple conversations, understanding signs and forms, basic phone calls — 6–9 months
• B1 (Intermediate): Discussing everyday topics, understanding most daily interactions, reading simple articles — 12–18 months
• B2 (Upper Intermediate): Comfortable in social and professional settings, following Greek TV and radio — 2–3 years

Language Learning Resources

• Athens Centre: Established language school in Athens offering intensive and part-time Greek courses for foreigners
• Online platforms (Duolingo, Mondly): Useful for basics but limited for Greek — supplement with conversation practice
• Language exchange meetups: Popular in Athens and Thessaloniki; find groups through Meetup.com or Facebook
• Greek public television (ERT): Watching Greek news and shows with subtitles accelerates comprehension

Cultural Norms & Etiquette

Philoxenia (Hospitality):

• Greeks take pride in welcoming strangers — expect to be offered coffee, food, or help within minutes of meeting a neighbour
• Refusing food or drink offered in a home can be seen as impolite; accept graciously, even if just a small amount
• Reciprocating hospitality strengthens relationships — bring a small gift (wine, dessert) when invited to someone's home

Mezze Culture and Late Dining:

• Mezze (μεζέ) refers to small shared dishes — think tapas-style plates of fava, grilled octopus, saganaki, dolmades, and dips like tzatziki and melitzanosalata
• Dinner in Greece typically starts at 9–10 PM, especially in summer. Restaurants fill up late, and meals are long, social affairs — rushing is considered rude
• Ouzo (anise-flavoured spirit) and raki/tsikoudia (a strong grape-based spirit, especially in Crete) are central to social dining — they are sipped slowly alongside food

Family-Oriented Society:

• Family comes first in Greek culture; Sunday lunches with extended family are a weekly tradition
• Don't be surprised if colleagues or new friends quickly invite you into family gatherings — this is genuine philoxenia in action
• Elders are deeply respected; greet older people first and use formal address (Κύριε / Κυρία — Sir/Madam) until invited to use first names

Daily Life Norms:

• Greetings matter — a handshake, direct eye contact, and "Kalimera" (good morning) go a long way
• Punctuality is relaxed in social settings (15–30 minutes late is normal) but expected for official appointments
• Tipping is customary but modest — rounding up or leaving 5–10% at restaurants is standard

Social Integration

• Join local clubs, sports teams, or cultural associations — Greeks socialise through shared activities
• Visit the same neighbourhood café or taverna regularly — becoming a "regular" opens doors to friendships
• Expat groups in Athens (Internations Athens, Athens Expats on Facebook) are active and welcoming
• Volunteering with local organisations is an excellent way to meet Greeks and practise your language skills

Where to Find Tools and Resources

ReloAdvisor Tools:

• Volume calculator
• Video survey
• Moving cost calculator

Official Greek Resources:

• Greek Ministry of Interior: gov.gr — Central portal for government services and digital forms
• AADE (Independent Authority for Public Revenue): aade.gr — Tax registration, AFM, and Taxisnet services
• EOPYY: eopyy.gov.gr — Public healthcare information and GP registries
• EFKA: efka.gov.gr — Social security registration and AMKA

Expat Communities:

• Internations Athens: internations.org — Networking events and forums for expats in Greece
• Expat.com Greece Forum: expat.com — Practical advice and classifieds
• Facebook Groups: "Expats in Athens," "Americans in Greece," "British Expats in Greece"

Related Guides:

• Moving to Cyprus
• Moving to Italy
• Moving to Portugal