Greek relocation rewards order more than urgency. The cases that land cleanly are the ones that did the steps in the right sequence. The ones that drag are the ones that started step three before finishing step one.
The sequence we use:
1. AFM (tax number)
The AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) is the universal handle. Obtained from the local tax office (DOY) or through a tax representative for non-residents. Without an AFM, almost nothing else works.
2. Greek bank account
With the AFM in hand, open a Greek bank account. Choose between the major Greek banks based on service profile and English-language support. Bring AFM, passport, proof of address, and source-of-funds documentation for the opening transfer.
3. Lease and address evidence
A registered Greek address - either through a long-term lease or property ownership - is the basis for the residency permit application and for AMKA registration. Short-term tourist rentals do not usually satisfy.
4. AMKA (social security number)
The AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) is the social-security handle. Required for healthcare access and most administrative interactions. Obtained from the local KEP office.
5. Residency permit application
With AFM, AMKA, bank account, and lease, the residency permit application proceeds. The specific dossier depends on the route (Golden Visa, FIP, Digital Nomad, EU citizen).
6. Healthcare registration
With AMKA, register with the local healthcare system or maintain private cover, depending on the route and personal preference.
7. School enrollment
For family cases, international schools concentrate in Athens, Thessaloniki, and a handful of island towns. Plan the school placement as a binding constraint, not a step-five.
8. First-year tax filing
Greek tax residence triggers cleanly. Plan the year-one filing - especially if the alternative-taxation regime is being elected - from the day of residence.
What we tell movers to avoid
- Signing a long-term lease before opening the bank account.
- Trying to do AMKA before AFM.
- Skipping address registration and hoping a later registration will catch up.
- Mixing Greek-source and foreign-source income flows in the first year without a clear tax plan.
Greek bureaucracy is workable, with English-language support available in most major institutions. Cases that respected the sequence finished in weeks; cases that improvised finished in months.