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How to Open a Bank Account in Greece

Purchase Tips

31.08.2024

Greek Home

When people start planning a holiday home or a move to Greece, one practical question comes up early: do I need a Greek bank account to buy? It is a sensible thing to ask, and the answer is more relaxed than many expect. You do not need one to complete a purchase. A local account can still be useful once you own a home here, so it helps to understand how opening one works. Below are the questions international buyers ask us most often, followed by the steps to opening an account.

Frequently Asked Questions About Greek Bank Accounts

Do I Need a Greek Bank Account to Buy a Home in Greece?

No. You can make all the payments connected to buying or selling a home from a bank account in your own country. A Greek account is optional, not a requirement.

Do I Need to Live in Greece to Open a Greek Bank Account?

No. You can open an account as a non-resident, without living in Greece.

Is it Harder to Open an Account as a Foreigner?

Opening an account as a non-resident is entirely possible, and many of our clients do it. It can take a little more effort than it does for a Greek resident, mainly because you may need extra documents and official translations. With the right paperwork prepared in advance, it tends to go smoothly.

Are There Benefits to Having a Greek Bank Account?

There are several, especially once you own a home here. A local account makes it easy to set up direct debits for utilities, such as your electricity bill. If you spend a good amount of time in Greece, it also lets you pay by card and withdraw cash without foreign transaction fees. For many owners, the convenience is the main draw.

Do I Need a Greek Bank Account to Get a Mortgage in Greece?

Yes. A Greek bank account is generally required if you want to apply for a mortgage with a Greek lender.

How can I open a bank account in Greece?

There are three main ways to open an account. Each bank runs its own process, so the details below are a general guide.

1. In Person

The most straightforward route is to contact your chosen bank, gather the documents it asks for, and visit a branch in Greece to sign. This is the most common approach, and the one we focus on most in this article.

2. By Proxy

Several banks allow a representative to present your documents and open the account on your behalf. This usually takes longer and costs a little more, because it requires a Power of Attorney. The wording of that Power of Attorney often has to follow a specific form set by each bank, so it is worth confirming the exact requirements with the bank before you arrange it.

3. Online

Some of the main Greek banks offer online account opening for individuals. The options can vary by bank, and there may be limits depending on the country you are applying from, particularly from outside the EU. In some cases certain features are restricted until you have signed in person at a branch. Your bank can tell you what is available for your situation.

Do I Really Need to Go in Person?

In most cases, yes, at some point. Whichever method you start with, you will usually need to visit a branch in person to have a fully functioning account. Opening by proxy or online tends to delay that visit rather than remove it. As a non-resident, you may also be asked to return to a branch every year or two to update your verification documents and keep the account fully active. This varies by bank, so it is worth checking the policy with yours.

Step 1: Prepare your Documents

The following papers are usually needed to open an account. Together they typically set up a deposit account, a debit card, and e-banking access so you can manage funds online. Requirements differ slightly from bank to bank.

  • Greek tax number (AFM)

  • A copy of your proof of identity

  • Proof of your home address, for example an extract from the civil registry or a utility bill

  • An employer's declaration, or an extract from the Chamber of Commerce if you are a freelancer or business owner

  • A tax assessment

A Note on Translations

Documents usually need to be translated into Greek or English, and some may need an Apostille stamp. Ask your bank when you apply, so you know exactly what is required before you start.

A Note on Extra Documents

Some banks ask for additional papers. It is good practice to send your documents to your bank contact for pre-approval before visiting a branch, so anything missing can be sorted out in advance.

How Recent Should My Documents Be?

As a rule, documents should have been issued within the past six months, and tax documents should refer to the current tax year. In some cases you may be asked for tax records from the last three years.

Step 2: Choose a Bank

A quick search online will help you decide which bank suits you, and you can do this while you gather your documents. The Greek market is led by four systemic banks, alongside a number of smaller ones. Most of our clients choose one of the four. The four are Piraeus Bank, National Bank of Greece, Eurobank, and Alpha Bank. Each has a nationwide branch network and ATMs across the country, along with English-language service and digital banking. Branch numbers, ATM coverage, and online options change over time, so it is best to compare the current offering on each bank's own website and pick the one that fits how you plan to use the account.

Banking Hours

Greek banks are generally open Monday to Friday, from around 08:300 to 14:30. They close on local, national, and religious holidays.

Step 3: Make an Appointment

Once your documents are ready and you know which bank you want, you will need to go in person to open the account. Most Greek banks work by appointment, so it is best to call ahead and book. Sending your documents to your bank contact beforehand for pre-approval can save time on the day.

What Happens Next

With the practical groundwork in place, you can move on to the enjoyable part: choosing the area of Greece where you want to buy a home.

If I Do Not Need a Bank Account, What Do I Need to Buy a Home in Greece?

The essentials are simpler than many people expect. To buy, you will need a Greek tax number (AFM), which our legal team obtains for you, and, in most cases, a Power of Attorney so the purchase can be completed without you needing to travel for every step. From there, our in-house legal team handles the due diligence, the contracts, and the transfer at the notary.



Disclaimer: This article is general information and not financial or legal advice. Bank requirements and procedures differ between banks and can change over time. Please confirm the current details with your chosen bank before relying on them.

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