Starting a business in Greece offers great opportunities, but navigating the registration process can be complex for foreigners. This guide walks you through essential steps to legally register your company and launch operations smoothly.
📝 Types of Companies in Greece
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Sole Proprietorship (Ατομική Επιχείρηση)
Simplest form, suitable for freelancers and small businesses. -
Private Company (IKE – Ιδιωτική Κεφαλαιουχική Εταιρεία)
Popular for SMEs due to limited liability and flexible structure. -
Limited Liability Company (EPE – Εταιρεία Περιορισμένης Ευθύνης)
Offers liability protection, suitable for medium-sized enterprises. -
Société Anonyme (AE – Ανώνυμη Εταιρεία)
Larger corporations with shares, often for bigger ventures.
📋 Step-by-Step Registration Process
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Choose company type and name
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Obtain a Greek tax number (AFM)
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Draft the company’s Articles of Association
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Deposit initial capital (if required)
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Register with the General Commercial Registry (GEMI)
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Register for VAT with the tax office
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Register with social security (EFKA) if hiring employees
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Open a company bank account
⏳ Timeline
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Registration typically takes 1 to 4 weeks, depending on company type and completeness of documents.
🧾 Required Documents
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Valid passports of founders
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Proof of address
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Company Articles of Association
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Bank deposit confirmation
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Tax registrations and certificates
⚠️ Common Challenges
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Language barriers and document translations
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Delays in tax and social security registrations
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Understanding local labor and tax laws
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Opening business bank accounts
🤝 How Borderless Lawyers Can Help
✅ Prepare and review company formation documents
✅ Assist with tax and social security registrations
✅ Guide compliance with Greek commercial law
✅ Facilitate bank account openings
✅ Provide ongoing corporate legal advice
📌 Pro Tip
Engage legal help early in the process to avoid costly mistakes and speed up registration.
🚀 Launch Your Business in Greece with Confidence
Registering your company properly is the foundation for success. Borderless Lawyers provides expert legal support tailored to foreign entrepreneurs.