💼 Greece is increasingly attractive for foreign entrepreneurs thanks to its growing economy, startup incentives, and access to EU markets. Whether you’re launching a small business or expanding globally, understanding Greek company laws is essential.
This guide explains how non-EU citizens can legally set up and operate a business in Greece.
🏛️ Legal Business Structures
Choose the right entity based on liability, tax, and operational goals:
-
Sole Proprietorship (Ατομική Επιχείρηση)
👤 Simple setup but full personal liability -
Limited Liability Company (IKE)
🛡️ Ideal for small-medium businesses
💶 Minimum capital: €1 -
Private Company (PC)
💼 Popular for startups and tech ventures
🧾 Flexible corporate structure -
Société Anonyme (SA / AE)
🏢 Best for large businesses
📊 Requires higher capital and formal governance
📋 Step-by-Step Registration Process
-
Reserve Company Name
🔎 Submit to GEMI (General Commercial Registry) -
Draft Articles of Association
📝 Must be notarized for SA; private for IKE -
Open a Greek Business Bank Account
🏦 Required to deposit share capital -
Tax ID (AFM) & Registration with Tax Office
📊 VAT registration if applicable -
Register with GEMI & EFKA
👷 For legal and social security compliance -
Obtain Necessary Licenses
🧾 Depending on the industry
🌍 Foreign Ownership Rules
✅ Foreigners — including non-EU nationals — can own 100% of a Greek company
✅ You don’t need Greek residency to register a business
🧑💼 You can operate remotely with a legal representative in Greece
📑 Required Documents
-
Valid passport or ID
-
Greek tax number (AFM)
-
Proof of address
-
Articles of incorporation
-
Bank certificate of capital deposit
-
Legal representative’s details (if applicable)
📌 Documents not in Greek must be officially translated and apostilled/legalized
💸 Taxation & Contributions
-
Corporate Income Tax: 22%
-
Dividend Tax: 5%
-
VAT: 24% standard rate
-
Social Security Contributions: Required for employers and employees
💡 Tax incentives available for startups, green tech, and digital nomads
📊 Annual Obligations
-
Annual tax returns
-
Financial statements (audited if thresholds met)
-
Bookkeeping under Greek GAAP
-
Social insurance and payroll compliance
📌 Non-compliance leads to fines, account freezing, or license revocation
🤝 Business Visas & Residency
If you’re physically operating the business in Greece, consider applying for:
-
Entrepreneur Visa
-
Digital Nomad Visa (if remote)
-
Golden Visa (if investing in real estate)
Each comes with separate requirements and benefits.
🧠 Expert Tip
Setting up a company is not just a one-time legal task — it’s an ongoing relationship with Greek authorities. Work with local accountants and legal professionals to avoid surprises and stay compliant.
⚖️ Launch Confidently with Legal Support
Whether you’re launching a boutique brand in Athens or a global e-commerce firm from Thessaloniki, we handle all legal paperwork, filings, and compliance to get you started — the right way.
👩⚖️ BorderlessLawyers.com helps foreign entrepreneurs navigate Greek business law with clarity and confidence.