02.12.2024
I’d like to buy a home in Greece, but I’m not sure what documents I need.
Do I need a Greek bank account to buy a home in Greece? Do I need a Greek passport or ID card? Are there additional documents needed depending on the area of Greece where I want to buy a home? We share all the documents you will need when buying a home in Greece.
The most common form of identification is a passport. This can be from your home country and does not need to be a Greek passport or Greek ID card.
Keep in mind that depending on your home country, the amount of time you can stay in Greece annually will change.If you are an EU resident, you can stay in Greece for as long as you wish.If you are a non-EU resident, you can stay in Greece for 90 days per six-month period.
A Greek Tax Number, also known as an “AFM,” is a nine-digit TIN number which is mandatory for all people who want to buy real estate in Greece, regardless of nationality.
Contrary to popular belief, a Greek bank account is not needed to buy a home in Greece. You can make all necessary payments from your home country.
An AFM is necessary for purchasing a property in Greece. An AFM is also needed if you plan to get a Greek residency permit, to file taxes in Greece, to secure a rental contract, and to open a bank account.
If you don’t have a Greek Tax Number, don’t panic. This is the case for most foreign buyers of a home in Greece. The process of applying for a Greek Tax Number can happen during your search for a home in Greece.
It is common in Greece to hire an accountant or lawyer when applying for an AFM. If you have given an Elxis lawyer power of attorney, we can apply for the tax number on your behalf through our network of verified accountants. In this case, you provide us the necessary documents, and we update you when the process is complete.
The Power of Attorney (POA) is not necessary for buying a home in Greece but can be very helpful if you live outside of Greece or do not speak Greek. With a POA, a Greek lawyer can represent you throughout the entire purchase process and take any necessary actions on your behalf, even when you’re not in Greece. For example, with a POA, a Greek lawyer can apply for a Greek Tax Number and sign the final purchase contract on your behalf.
Without a POA, you would need to fly to Greece yourself for many key steps of the home buying process.
Jointly owned properties are held in the name of 2 or more parties, like husband and wife, business partners, friends, and family members. One reason to jointly own a property could be to share the purchase cost. One party may decide to sell their share of the property later on. The payment can be a 50-50 split, or one partner can have a larger share of the property. Each owner is able to transact, sell, or bequeath their part of the property without consulting the other owners.
In this case, you will both need to present the documents listed above.
This section only applies If you are a NOT an EU resident. If you are buying a home in a border region and are not an EU resident, there are a few extra documents needed when compared to buying in the rest of Greece. The exact documents required may vary based on the office where your permit request is submitted.
A short CV in Greek, with certified translation
A copy of your valid passport certified by a competent authority or a lawyer
Your criminal record certificate, with certified translation
A Residence Permit (if you declare as a resident of Greece or another EU country)
Property details (description, purpose of purchase, and topographical map of the property)
Birth certificate, with certified translation
Signature from the seller
You may need additional documents if you are buying a home as a business in Greece. Find out more in our complete guide.
Yes. Sellers have to provide many more documents when compared to a buyer. For example, in Greece the seller is required to provide:
The deed of the property
Topographical plan of the property
Building Permit
Proof of Registration
Copies of your personal ID
Front and back of electricity bill
E-9 tax form
Find a complete list in our guide to selling a home in Greece.
The “E-ID” or Electronic Building Identity (Ηλεκτρονική Ταυτότητα Κτιρίου) is an electronic file on each property in Greece that contains information on its current condition and changes made throughout its lifetime. Find out what it contains and how to access it in our complete guide to E-ID's in Greece.
Gathering the correct paperwork in advance can save you both time and stress during the property purchase process in Greece. Being well-prepared also helps avoid unnecessary delays at notaries, banks, and public services.
13.05.2026
“I need to be a Greek citizen to buy a home in Greece, right?” “Don't I need a Greek bank account to buy a home in Greece?” “I signed a Private Purchase Agreement... does that mean I own the house now?” In this article, we present the most common misconceptions we hear from clients. Keep in mind, this is perfectly normal if you're buying a home in Greece for the first time!
12.05.2026
I want to buy a home in Greece, but I don’t know anything about the process. Who will I work with when buying a home in Greece? If I don’t speak Greek, will someone help me with the documents? Do I need a lawyer, a real estate agent, or an engineer? Which of these contacts do I need to have in Greece before I start the process of buying a home?
When buying property in Greece, you will typically work with a real estate agent, a buyer’s lawyer, who is a key participant in drawing up and signing the purchase deed in collaboration with the notary, and a notary. The notary office is the expert entity for notarial acts and legal services related to property transactions, including property conveyancing, document formalization, and legal consultancy, as well as notarial acts and legal services for documents intended for use abroad, addressing cross-border requirements such as translations and legalization. The office serves as the professional space where legal and notarial services are conducted, such as signing, verification, and consultations. Understanding all the costs involved, such as notary fees, transfer taxes, and legal fees, is crucial to avoid surprises and ensure a smooth transaction. These professionals are essential for both individuals and businesses looking to invest in Greek real estate.
Buyers, whether private individuals or commercial entities, often require guidance to navigate the Greek notary system, understand the legal framework, and ensure all necessary documents and legal requirements are met. Greece is a popular destination for international clients, including those seeking a golden visa through real estate investment. This is especially important for international clients who may not be familiar with the local language or the digital systems now supporting notarial acts in Greece. The contract for property transactions is always drafted in Greek, so a translator is required for non-Greek speakers. The process and role of notaries can differ from those in other countries, so expert guidance is highly recommended. Notaries in Greece also provide services related to wills, which are important for estate planning and succession.
11.05.2026
In recent years, buying a second home in Greece has become especially popular, driven by the steady growth of the real estate market and increased interest from investors. This growth is supported by Greece's economic recovery and government incentives, making it an attractive investment opportunity. The rise of home rental websites like Airbnb and VRBO has further fueled demand. Greece offers something for every lifestyle, with a diverse range of property types including modern apartments in vibrant city centers, luxury villas on the islands, and family-friendly homes in the mainland regions. As a popular tourist destination, Greece attracts both buyers and investors seeking lifestyle benefits, strong rental income potential, and long-term appreciation. The country's warm hospitality and high quality of life further enhance the experience of owning a second home here.
16.04.2026
In this comprehensive guide to buying a home in Greece, we will cover the entire process of buying a home in Greece, including where to buy a home in Greece, what types of homes you can buy in Greece, the documents needed, the legal process of buying a Greek home, and also frequently asked questions.
- Trustworthy: Elxis has over 30 years of experience buying, selling, and performing all legal procedures for the purchase and sale of properties in Greece. The information in this guide comes directly from our team of lawyers and real estate consultants, so you don’t need to think twice about the credibility of the information.
- Up to Date: Most similar guides you will find on the internet have old information about tax rates, documentation, and legal processes. This buyer’s guide is continually updated as the rules and regulations in Greece change, so you don’t have to wonder if anything is out of date by the time you start your home search.
- Optimized for English Speakers: Many similar guides are translated from Greek to English, and as a result, some of the meaning is lost in translation. This guide is written 100% by native English speakers and proofed by native Dutch and German speakers, so the information is clear and understandable, no matter where you’re reading from.
29.12.2025
You have bought your home in Greece and are wondering how to add utilities such as electricity, water and internet to your property? In this article we explain exactly how to add utilities to your home in Greece.
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23.06.2025
In Greece, time seems to move with the rhythm of nature, and nothing captures that better than an olive tree. Long considered a symbol of peace, wisdom, and longevity, olive trees have been at the heart of Greek life for thousands of years. In 2025, owning a home with an olive grove isn’t just a romantic dream. It’s a real, tangible investment that offers lifestyle value, financial potential, and a deep connection to the land.
