Obtaining a Greek tax number, called AFM (pronounced AFIMI), is essential when you decide to settle in Greece. Indeed, you need an AFM tax number to work legally in Greece, to open a bank account or to buy a property. In order to apply for and obtain an AFM, you need to present certain documents and evidence and follow certain steps. Recently, it has become possible to apply for it entirely from your home country, without having to be in Greece. Also, this number allows you to access the online services of the Greek tax authorities, for example to file your tax return. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Greece, tells you everything about how to apply for and obtain a Greek AFM tax number online or in Greece, step by step.
First of all, what is the AFM number?
The AFM is simply the Greek tax identification number, which is unique and personal, and is required for many daily procedures in Greece.
The AFM number consists of nine digits and is used for communication with the Greek authorities and is necessary for many administrative procedures such as:
Opening a bank account
Working
Paying your taxes
Buying a property
Buying a car
Exchanging a foreign driver’s license
And many other steps.
As you can see, the AFM tax number is the first and most important step to take if you want to live in Greece.
If you want to apply yourself, I will explain step by step how to get it. Alternatively, you can go to our service page to see how we can help get your AFM number for you, 100% online.
You will know how to apply for and obtain an AFM Greek tax number
APPLYING FOR AN AFM TAX NUMBER ONLINE
It has recently become possible to apply for a Greek AFM tax number without having to travel to Greece, and even before you arrive there. This is a practical solution for people who cannot or do not want to go to Greece just to get the AFM number, or for those who do not want to bother and delegate it to professionals.
The concept is simple: you empower an on-site tax representative to apply for and obtain the AFM number on your behalf. A simple trip to the nearest consulate is required to validate your ID.
Here are the steps to apply for the AFM Greek Tax Number online:
Prepare the necessary documents (ID and proof of address);
Fill out the AFM number online form available by clicking here;
Sign the power of attorney;
Verify your identity online at the nearest Greek consulate or KEP office if you are already in Greece;
Receive your AFM number by email.
This may sound too simple, but it is indeed a new service that will change the life of new expats in Greece. No need to wait to be in Greece or to deal with the Greek administration. You can find more information by clicking here or on the banner below.
APPLICATION FOR A GREEK TAX NUMBER ON THE SPOT
Step 1 – Go to the Eforia tax office
In order to apply for and obtain a Greek tax number once you are in Greece, one must go in person to the nearest tax center, called Eforia. Normally there is no obligation to make an appointment, but we recommend that you consult the list of Greek tax offices and their rules.
As a rule, tax centers in Greece are open between 7:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. However, staff are only required to serve the public for 5.5 hours a day, which means that many tax centers open after 7:30 a.m. and close at 1:30 p.m.
In order to obtain the Greek tax number, it is necessary to provide the following documents
▪ Identity document, valid passport
▪ Proof of address
▪ Residence permit if non-EU citizen
In Greece, there are two ways to prove your residence: either by providing a water or electricity bill in your name, ora lease. Otherwise, it is possible to fill out a declaration form available here.
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In English:
https://rescue.app.box.com/s/jpgdo9yyj35b2t6m1yvpstpo8akld514
Step 2 – Wait for verification of documents
It may take more than a month to obtain your AFM Greek tax number. A tax officer must verify the authenticity of the documents before issuing an AFM.
The proof of address will be checked to confirm that it is a genuine document and that the information provided is true. This process is complicated and can take some time.
This authentication process can take more than a month and no tax office in Greece can issue an AFM tax number before confirming the authenticity of the submitted documents.
Access the TAXISnet online platform
Once you have obtained your Greek AFM tax number, it is also necessary to obtain a key number (‘kleidarithmos’ in Greek) which allows you to register and use the TAXISnet online platform.
For example, through this platform it is possible to
File your annual tax return
Print an AFM Tax Number Certificate
Print a tax certificate
Claim social benefits (if eligible)
By using this key number on the first visit to the TAXISnet platform, it will be possible to create a unique login and password. They will be necessary to connect to the platform.
It is important to keep your TAXISnet username and password as they are needed for almost all procedures related to the Greek tax authorities.
The big drawback of this public platform is that it is only available in Greek and therefore quite difficult to use. You can ask for help at a KEP office near you. You will need to have your TAXISnet username and password with you.
You can find the nearest KEP office on their website.
If you don’t want to bother with all the steps or if you’re afraid of doing something wrong because you don’t master the language – I assure you it’s normal, it’s part of expatriation. That’s why you can visit our Services page to find out how we can help you get that AFM number.
One of the other important steps in your expatriation is to obtain a social security number: this is the next topic to be discussed in our other article.
