Accounting Services in Greece for Expats (2025–2026): Set-Up, Filings, Costs, and Special Tax Regimes

Moving to Greece can be exciting, but managing your taxes and finances can feel confusing. This guide explains everything clearly — from getting a Tax Identification Number (AFM) to using myAADE, myDATA, and choosing the right expat tax regime. With the right accountant, compliance becomes smooth and stress-free.

1) Getting Started: AFM and myAADE

To begin, every foreign resident or property owner in Greece needs a Tax Identification Number (AFM). You can apply through gov.gr or by visiting your local tax office. However, many expats prefer letting an accountant or lawyer handle the process using a power of attorney, which saves time.

After receiving your AFM, you will need to create a myAADE account. This platform allows you to file returns, view tax debts, and access tools like E1/E2/E3 (income), E9/ENFIA (property), and myPROPERTY for real estate.

Your accountant will:

• Obtain your AFM on your behalf.
• Activate your myAADE account.
• Register your business activity code (KAD) if you plan to work as a freelancer.

2) Keeping Records: myDATA and e-Invoicing

In Greece, bookkeeping is now done digitally through myDATA, an online e-books system. It records all income and expenses directly with the tax authority (AADE). Moreover, starting in February 2026, e-invoicing will become mandatory for all business-to-business (B2B) transactions.

Therefore, your accountant must ensure your accounting software connects properly to myDATA. This connection helps maintain accuracy and prevents delays or errors during audits.

Your accountant will:

• Choose software compatible with myDATA.
• Configure your invoice settings.
• Match your e-books with your financial records.

As a result, your tax data stays up-to-date and compliant with government systems.

3) Submitting Returns: E1, E2, and E3

Greece uses three main tax forms:

• E1: Personal income tax return.
• E2: Rental income declaration.
• E3: Freelance or business income statement.

Tax rates vary depending on the income type:

• Rental income: 15%, 35%, or 45%, depending on total income.
• Dividends: 5%.
• Interest income: 15%.
• Royalties: 20%.

In addition, accountants help you prepare financial statements, reconcile transactions with myDATA, and calculate prepayments for the next year. By doing this early, you can avoid unexpected penalties.

4) Freelancers: VAT and EFKA

If you are self-employed, you will also need to manage VAT and social insurance (EFKA). The standard VAT rate in Greece is 24%, while reduced rates of 13% and 6% apply to specific goods and services.

As for EFKA, contributions are roughly 21.79% for employers and 13.37% for employees. Freelancers select their own EFKA category based on income levels.

Consequently, having an accountant is very helpful. They will:

• Register you for VAT if needed.
• File VAT returns and monitor payments.
• Calculate EFKA contributions and ensure they are submitted on time.

This ensures your business runs smoothly and remains compliant.

5) Property Owners: E9 and ENFIA

If you own property in Greece, you must file E9, which reports all property details. The government then calculates ENFIA, the annual property tax, based on these records.

When you buy a home through myPROPERTY, your E9 entry is automatically created. Nevertheless, you should check that all information is correct before the yearly ENFIA assessment.

Usually, ENFIA can be paid in 12 monthly installments, helping you manage your expenses easily.

6) Expat Tax Regimes: Which One Fits You

Greece offers three main tax incentives for foreigners who become tax residents. Each one fits a different lifestyle and income type.

1. Non-Dom Regime (Article 5A) – Pay a flat €100,000 tax per year on global income for up to 15 years. You must have lived outside Greece for seven of the past eight years and make a qualifying investment.
2. Foreign Pensioner Regime (Article 5B) – Retired expats can pay only 7% tax on their foreign pensions for 15 years, provided they move their tax residence to Greece.
3. Impatriate Regime (Article 5C) – Workers and freelancers who relocate to Greece can exempt 50% of their Greek income for up to seven years.

Your accountant can compare the options, confirm your eligibility, and file your application with AADE.

7) Average Costs for Accounting Services

Accounting costs in Greece vary depending on complexity, but below are general estimates:

• AFM registration and setup: €150–€400
• Freelancer bookkeeping and VAT management: €80–€250 per month
• Annual personal tax return (E1/E2/E3): €200–€600
• Tax regime advisory (5A, 5B, or 5C): Custom fixed fee

Although prices vary, always ask for a clear quote and timeline before starting.

8) Quick Step-by-Step Summary

• Step 1: Apply for an AFM and activate your myAADE account.
• Step 2: Connect to myDATA and prepare for 2026 e-invoicing.
• Step 3: Choose the correct expat tax regime early.
• Step 4: Verify your E9 records and track ENFIA bills.

By following these steps, you can stay organized and avoid tax-related stress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my accountant handle everything remotely?
Yes. Once authorized, your accountant can file all tax forms and communicate with the tax office through myAADE.

Do I need VAT registration as a freelancer?
If your activity or revenue requires it, your accountant will register you and submit returns through myDATA.

Which tax regime should I choose?
That depends on your income source. If your income is international, Non-Dom may work best. Pensioners usually choose the 7% plan, while employees prefer the 50% exemption.

Conclusion

In summary, accounting in Greece may seem complex, but a professional accountant can make everything easier. From AFM registration to myAADE filings, VAT, and ENFIA, they handle every step with precision. Additionally, choosing the right expat regime ensures you pay only what’s required, nothing more.

For trusted insights, printable checklists, and verified accountant contacts, visit Soneverse and explore our dedicated resources.