Whether you’re moving to Greece for retirement, remote work, or investment, you’ll need two key numbers to live legally:
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AFM (ΑΦΜ) – your Greek Tax Identification Number
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AMKA (ΑΜΚΑ) – your Social Security Number
These numbers are essential for renting property, opening a bank account, signing contracts, getting healthcare, and more.
This article explains how to get your AFM and AMKA, what documents you need, and how Borderless Lawyers can assist you (even remotely via Power of Attorney).
📇 What Is the AFM (Greek Tax Number)?
AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou) is a mandatory tax number for any individual or entity interacting with the Greek tax system.
You need it to:
✅ Buy or rent real estate
✅ Sign utilities contracts (electricity, water, phone)
✅ Register for residency
✅ Pay taxes or file returns
✅ Get VAT number (if applicable)
✅ Open a bank account
You get one AFM per lifetime, valid across Greece.
🏥 What Is the AMKA (Greek Social Security Number)?
AMKA (Arithmos Mitroou Koinonikis Asfalisis) is required for:
✅ Accessing public healthcare
✅ Enrolling in the national insurance system (EFKA)
✅ Signing employment contracts
✅ Applying for pensions
✅ Issuing medical prescriptions
If you’re working or applying for certain residence permits, AMKA is essential.
🧠 AMKA is not needed for all types of residence permits (e.g., Golden Visa), but it is required for Digital Nomad, FIP, and employment-based residency.
📋 Documents Needed to Get AFM
You must present the following:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Valid and in Latin alphabet (or official translation) |
| Greek address | Rental contract, hotel booking, or hosting affidavit |
| Residence title | Type D visa or valid permit (if applying in Greece) |
| Completed AFM form | Standard application form |
| Proof of legal entry | Entry stamp or Schengen proof |
| Power of Attorney | If applying through lawyer (optional but common) |
📌 You’ll be assigned to a Greek Tax Office (DOY) based on your address.
🧑💼 Steps to Get Your AFM
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Book appointment at your assigned DOY
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Bring the documents listed
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Complete the application form
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Receive your AFM on the spot (printed confirmation)
⚖️ Our clients typically authorize us via Power of Attorney (POA) to handle the process without needing to visit the tax office in person.
📋 Documents Needed to Get AMKA
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| Passport | Must match AFM record |
| AFM number | Already issued |
| Residence title | Proof of legal stay |
| Proof of employment or insurance (if applicable) | For work-related permits |
| Social insurance registration form | Completed at the local KEP |
| Proof of address | Same as used for AFM |
🏢 Where to Apply for AMKA
You apply at a KEP (Citizens’ Service Centre) — a government help center found in every Greek city.
AMKA is usually issued on the same day, unless more paperwork is requested.
📌 For many residence permits, Borderless Lawyers includes AMKA assistance as part of our legal onboarding.
💼 Can You Apply Remotely?
Yes — many foreigners apply via a Greek lawyer using POA (Power of Attorney), especially when:
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They are abroad and preparing their visa
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They want to buy property remotely
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They need to prepare documents before arrival
✅ We can issue your AFM and AMKA remotely, prepare translations, and store them securely until you arrive.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
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❌ Using an unregistered rental contract as address proof
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❌ Providing documents not translated into Greek (where needed)
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❌ Trying to apply for AMKA without having AFM first
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❌ Entering Greece without a legal visa (you may be denied AFM)
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❌ Relying on outdated instructions from blogs — processes change often
🔁 Do You Need to Renew AFM or AMKA?
No — both numbers are permanent once issued.
However:
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You must update your address or contact details if they change
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You must file taxes annually if you become tax resident (183+ days)
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Your AMKA may become inactive if you don’t use the healthcare system or are uninsured — we can help reactivate it
🇪🇺 Are These Numbers Linked to Residency?
Yes — most residence permits in Greece require you to get an AFM first. AMKA is often required to access healthcare and complete residency file submissions.
💡 Even property buyers with no intention of living in Greece (e.g., Golden Visa holders) still need AFM to complete their purchase.
💼 How Borderless Lawyers Helps You
We offer:
✅ POA-based AFM + AMKA application
✅ Assistance with tax office and KEP appointments
✅ Translation and certification of documents
✅ Greek address affidavit (if needed)
✅ Full integration into your residence permit strategy
We make it possible to handle the entire process before you even arrive in Greece.
❓ FAQ – Greek Tax and Social Numbers
Q: Can I get AFM before arriving in Greece?
A: Yes — via POA, we can issue it on your behalf before arrival.
Q: Is AMKA required for all foreigners?
A: No — only if you plan to work, use public healthcare, or need insurance. FIP and Golden Visa holders may not need it.
Q: Is AFM required to open a bank account?
A: Yes — most Greek banks won’t open accounts without an AFM.
🏛️ Ready to Start Your Legal Life in Greece?
Getting your AFM and AMKA is the first step to legally living, working, or investing in Greece.
👉 Book a consultation with Borderless Lawyers today — we’ll handle the bureaucracy so you can focus on settling in.