Greece is a country rich in history and welcomes expats with a strong banking system. If you’re staying long-term, getting a local bank account is key. Greek laws don’t stop foreigners from opening accounts, but getting one can be tough due to paperwork and proving you live there.
Many Greek banks cater well to foreign clients. Services like Wise help manage money across borders without needing a local account. They’re known for low fees, clear pricing, and ease of use.
Greek banks usually accept documents in English, making things easier for international clients. You can use ATMs, send money abroad, or handle everyday costs more easily. For a full guide on opening a Greek bank account without residency proof, check out this comprehensive guide.
Popular Greek banks include Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank, the National Bank of Greece, and Eurobank. They offer various accounts for expats and non-residents, catering to different needs.
Steps to Obtain an AFM (Greek Tax Number)
To do financial things in Greece, you need a Greek tax number, or AFM. Getting an AFM is easy, whether you live there or not.
First, gather your documents. Non-residents need a passport, proof of address, and maybe a residence permit. Married couples must have their marriage certificate translated and stamped.
You can apply online through the Independent Authority for Public Revenue. Fill out a form and sign a power of attorney. You must verify your identity at a Greek consulate or KEP office. Or, you can go in person to a tax center (Eforia) from 7:30 am to 2:30 pm.
After applying, you get your AFM in 2-3 business days. The whole process, from start to finish, takes about a week. Your nine-digit AFM is key for things like:
- Opening a bank account
- Working legally in Greece
- Paying taxes
- Buying property
- Purchasing a car
- Exchanging a foreign driver’s license
After getting your AFM, register for a ‘kleidarithmos’ number. This lets you use TAXISnet for tax services and benefits.
Having a Greek tax number is key for money matters. It’s important for both locals and foreigners. For more help, check out this guide on opening a bank account abroad.
Guide to Open Bank Account Greece Even Without Proof Residency
Getting a bank account in Greece without living there is possible. Many Greek banks don’t need proof of residency. You can open a non-resident account with a valid passport, foreign address, and financial history.
- Passport
- Proof of foreign address
- Financial history
You might need to notarize or translate some documents. Banks like Piraeus and Eurobank help international clients. They even let you start the process online. For more info, check opening-us-bank-account-without-residency-proof.
The amount you need to deposit first can change. Banks like N26 and Revolut make banking easy online. They offer EU IBAN accounts, low fees, and easy currency exchange.
Here’s a quick look at some top Greek banks for international customers:
| Bank | Minimum Initial Deposit | Online Banking Facilities | Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Piraeus Bank | Variable | Yes | Wide range of services for international clients |
| National Bank of Greece | Variable | No | Established traditional bank |
| Alpha Bank | Variable | Yes | Premier banking services |
| N26 | None | Yes | Fully digital bank, competitive fees |
| Revolut | None | Yes | Excellent for currency exchange |
Greece also has tax benefits for some people and businesses. The Golden Visa Program has given over 31,000 permits by 2023. It lets investors get residency with big investments.
Best Banks for International Customers in Greece
Greece has a wide range of banks that welcome international customers. Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank, National Bank of Greece (NBG), and Eurobank are top choices. They offer many financial services, support in several languages, and easy online tools for opening accounts.
These banks are great for international transactions and have staff who speak many languages. This makes them stand out for expats looking for bank accounts in Greece.
Piraeus Bank and Alpha Bank are known for their strong online and mobile banking. They help with the paperwork needed to open an account. This includes the AFM (Greek Tax Number), proof of identity, and address. This support is very helpful for Americans and other international clients.
The Bank of Greece oversees all banks, ensuring they are safe and follow the rules. Digital banks like N26 and Revolut are also entering the Greek market. They offer modern, app-based banking that fits today’s needs. For more on opening a bank account in Europe, check out this guide on opening a bank account in.