Purchasing or bringing a vehicle into Greece is entirely possible for foreign nationals and expats, though the process involves multiple layers of taxation, registration procedures, and customs requirements that can differ considerably from what you may be used to elsewhere. Your residency status is the central factor governing which rules apply to you — influencing everything from eligibility for import duty relief to what documentation you need to register a car. Traffic in Greece flows on the right, and every vehicle must comply with EU emissions regulations.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| VAT on vehicles (as of 2025) | 24% on new vehicles and non-EU imports; used EU vehicles may be exempt |
| Import duty from non-EU countries (as of 2025) | Approximately 10% on the vehicle’s customs value (verify with AADE) |
| Registration tax | Calculated on vehicle value, CO₂ emissions, Euro standard, and age — check with AADE for current rates |
| KTEO roadworthiness inspection | Required every 2 years for cars over 4 years old; cost approx. €40–€50 (as of 2024) |
| Road tax (Teli Kykloforias) | Annual fee based on engine size; must be paid by 31 December each year |
| Residency exemption (removal goods) | Available to those relocating permanently after living abroad for at least 2 years — contact AADE for eligibility |
How do I buy a new car in Greece as a foreigner?
Greece has a lively automotive market offering everything from brand-new models to budget-friendly second-hand options, but your legal residency status has a significant bearing on how you can purchase and register a vehicle. Going through a dealership to buy a new car is the most direct route — the purchase price already incorporates VAT and registration fees, sparing you the intricate tax calculations that come with importing a vehicle from abroad.
When you purchase a new car within Greece, there are no customs procedures or import duties to contend with. VAT is built into the displayed price, and Greek dealerships include the Registration Fee along with all relevant taxes in their quoted figures. Entry-level small cars start at roughly €20,000 (as of 2024), and that price typically covers a manufacturer’s warranty, access to authorised service centres, and the option of tailored financing arrangements or part-exchange deals.
To buy and register a new vehicle, you will need a Greek Tax Identification Number — known as an AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou) — which is a prerequisite for virtually every formal transaction in Greece. You will also need to present your residence permit, identity document or passport, proof of your Greek address, and your driving licence. Non-EU citizens must supply their Residence Permit (Άδεια παραμονής) as part of this process.
In many cases, the dealership will handle provisional registration on the buyer’s behalf, which means not every registration document needs to be in hand at the time of purchase — a valid purchase invoice can stand in for certain paperwork. Where the dealer does not arrange temporary registration, they will provide the buyer with the precise documents needed to complete the registration independently.
Finance deals are available at Greek dealerships for residents with an established local credit profile, but expats who have only recently arrived in the country may find it simpler to pay outright by cash or international bank transfer in the first instance. For the latest information on financing options and any related requirements, speak directly with the dealership and, where needed, seek regulatory guidance from the Bank of Greece or the Hellenic Capital Market Commission.
How do I buy a used car in Greece?
The second-hand car market is a popular choice thanks to its lower price points. Online platforms including Car.gr, Automarin, Lalafo, Autopark, Auto Kinito, and XE Automato carry extensive listings of pre-owned vehicles. Established used car dealerships offer inspected cars with a degree of buyer protection, whereas private sellers may provide better value but carry greater risk and require more careful paperwork management.
Before agreeing to any private purchase, conduct thorough checks on the vehicle’s background. Confirm that it has no outstanding finance agreements, unpaid fines, or road tax arrears attached to it. All vehicles must carry a valid Technical Control Certificate and a valid Exhaust Emissions Control Card before they can legally change hands. Request both of these documents from the seller before proceeding with any payment.
You can verify a vehicle’s technical inspection history and current status through the KTEO portal, which is administered by the Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. The registration document — commonly referred to as the “grey card” — must match the chassis and engine numbers physically present on the car. It is also advisable to cross-reference with the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) to confirm that no unresolved tax obligations are linked to the vehicle.
For a private sale to go ahead, the seller must supply a signed transfer agreement (private contract of sale), the vehicle’s registration certificate, the current KTEO certificate, and evidence that road tax has been paid in full. Both parties ordinarily attend the relevant regional office of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport or a KEP (Citizen Service Centre) to formalise the handover. Transfer costs are the buyer’s responsibility. These include a licence fee of €75 and a transfer fee that varies according to the vehicle’s engine displacement — for instance, €30 for vehicles in the 51 to 400 cc range (as of the time of that regulation; always verify current figures with the relevant transport authority).
Those involved in the transfer attend the appropriate department and submit their documentation. The officer then issues a temporary licence, and the buyer typically receives the final official plates and registration within around seven days.
Can I import a vehicle into Greece, and how does the process work?
Bringing a vehicle into Greece from abroad involves a series of distinct stages, and the complexity varies depending on whether the car originates from another EU member state or from a non-EU country. Greece drives on the right, and only left-hand-drive vehicles may be permanently registered with Greek plates — right-hand-drive configurations are not eligible for registration. All imported vehicles must satisfy EU type-approval and emissions standards before they can be registered.
If you are importing a car that is more than four years old, it must undergo a technical inspection in its country of origin before it crosses the border. Once in Greece, the vehicle will also need to pass a local KTEO inspection as part of the registration process.
The treatment of your vehicle differs significantly depending on where it originates:
- From EU countries: For vehicles imported from EU countries, only the registration tax is required. New vehicles are subject to Registration Tax plus VAT; used vehicles are subject to registration tax only.
- From non-EU countries: For vehicles imported from non-EU countries, VAT at 24% is applied on the taxable value, which includes import duties, taxes, fees, charges, and related importation costs. An import duty of approximately 10% also applies (see costs section below).
The step-by-step import process is as follows:
- Obtain a technical inspection in the country of origin (if the vehicle is over 4 years old). You must take the car through technical inspection before it leaves the border.
- Arrange transport to Greece. Options include driving the vehicle yourself or using a Roll-on/Roll-off (RoRo) or container shipping service.
- Submit the Declaration of Vehicle Arrival (DVA/NOVA). Begin with the Declaration of Vehicle’s Arrival (DVA), also called NOVA. Submit this to Greek customs within 15 days of the month following your vehicle’s arrival. For EU imports, you will receive a NOVA confirmation, simplifying the process.
- Complete customs clearance. Documents required include the original invoice of vehicle purchase or other proof of ownership, a copy of the NOVA notification, and a Certificate of Conformity and type approval.
- Pay applicable taxes. The registration tax can be paid at the same time as other import duties and taxes through submission of the Import Customs Declaration, or within 15 days from the date of consumption through submission of a Special Declaration.
- Pass the Greek KTEO inspection. All vehicles must pass a technical inspection (KTEO) before registration.
- Obtain insurance. Before registering the car in Greece, you must secure valid car insurance. Browse insurance providers, compare options, and buy a policy before proceeding with registration.
- Register the vehicle and obtain Greek plates. Submit all documents, tax payment receipts, and insurance proof to the regional Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport office.
Relocation (removal goods) exemption: Individuals moving their habitual residence to Greece may be entitled to import personal belongings — including a motor vehicle — free from customs duties and taxes. “Habitual residence” is understood to mean the location where a person normally resides for at least 185 days in each calendar year. To be eligible, the applicant must have had their habitual residence outside Greece for a minimum of two years immediately before relocating.
The relief can extend to customs duties (for non-EU vehicles), VAT, registration fees, and environmental levies. Individuals planning to transfer their habitual residence should contact the competent Greek Consular Authority in their country of previous residence to apply for a Certificate of Transfer of Habitual Residence. Comprehensive guidance on this exemption is available directly from the Greek Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), the national body responsible for customs and tax obligations on vehicle imports.
Driving an unregistered foreign vehicle on Greek roads is not permitted until all customs and tax obligations have been fully discharged and Greek plates have been issued.
What are the costs involved in importing a car to Greece?
Bringing a vehicle into Greece can work out considerably more expensive than simply buying one locally, especially when the car originates from outside the EU. The total outlay depends on the vehicle’s age, emissions output, country of origin, and current market value. Imports from within the EU tend to attract far lower costs than those from non-EU sources, given the absence of import duty and potential VAT relief.
The principal cost categories to factor into your budget are as follows:
| Cost item | Details |
|---|---|
| Import duty (non-EU only) | Approximately 10% of the vehicle’s customs value for non-EU imports, plus 24% VAT. For countries with preferential trade agreements with the EU, this duty can be reduced or zero. |
| VAT (24%) | Payable at the standard rate of 24% if importing new vehicles, or vehicles from outside the EU. For used EU vehicles, there is a chance you will not have to pay VAT. |
| Registration tax | Calculated as: (Retail Price Before Taxes minus Reduction Based on Age and Mileage) × Registration Tax Rate. The rate is affected by the vehicle’s taxable value at registration. Additional factors include CO2 emissions and age. |
| KTEO inspection fee | Approximately €40–€50 (as of 2024), plus the cost of any remedial work required. |
| Shipping costs | Transport and shipment can be expensive. Transport costs range between €500 and €1,500 for intra-European moves; for imports from third countries, the total charge (customs duties + VAT + registration) can reach 30–40% of the vehicle’s value. |
| Customs broker / legal fees | Typically charged separately; due to the technical nature of tax calculations and required submissions, most individuals prefer legal representation to avoid errors and delays. |
For vehicles arriving from outside the EU, the combined burden of customs duties, VAT, and registration tax can amount to 30–40% of the vehicle’s value. To illustrate: a car valued at €20,000 could attract an additional €6,000–€8,000 in taxes alone. Where the vehicle has high CO₂ emissions, registration fees rise further still.
Unlike transactions within the EU single market — where import duties between member states have been eliminated — non-EU vehicles are subject to the full tariff regime. Always verify the most current duty rates and registration tax tables directly with the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) before committing to an import, as rates and calculation methods are subject to change.
How do I register a vehicle in Greece?
Vehicle registration in Greece falls under the remit of the regional offices of the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (yme.gr). For new vehicles purchased through a dealership, registration may also be initiated at a local KEP (Citizen Service Centre — Κέντρο Εξυπηρέτησης Πολιτών). If you spend more than 185 days per year in Greece, you are required to register your vehicle there.
New cars are registered at the local Citizen Service Centre (KEP). The buyer submits the required documents, which are then forwarded to the competent institution. A receipt (Βεβαίωση υποβολής αιτήματος) is issued to the applicant, who is subsequently notified once the final registration document is ready for collection.
For an imported vehicle, the registration process involves additional steps. You will need a completed NOVA declaration, customs clearance, a passed KTEO inspection, and full settlement of all applicable taxes before registration can be finalised. The documentation typically required at the point of registration includes:
- Proof of identity (passport or national ID card)
- Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM)
- Proof of address in Greece
- Vehicle purchase invoice or transfer agreement
- Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
- NOVA/DVA customs notification and tax payment receipts
- Valid KTEO roadworthiness certificate
- Valid vehicle insurance certificate
- Residence permit (for non-EU nationals)
Roadworthiness is confirmed by a single official document — the roadworthiness certificate (DTE in Greek). The driver must carry both the vehicle registration document and this certificate at all times when on the road. Once registration is complete, you will be issued with Greek licence plates — the standard white plates bearing the blue EU insignia — along with the official registration document, commonly known as the “grey card”.
Registering a car in Greece can feel overwhelming, particularly given the language barrier, as most forms are in Greek. Using a translation application or engaging a bilingual assistant is a practical step. The administrative process spans multiple offices and requires careful preparation of documents to avoid having applications rejected.
What insurance do I need to drive legally in Greece?
Greece operates a private motor insurance market that broadly mirrors the structure found across most EU member states. Third-party liability cover — known in Greek as ypochreotiki asfaleia — is the legal minimum required before driving on public roads, and a vehicle cannot be registered in Greece without valid coverage in place. This requirement aligns with the compulsory third-party liability framework applied throughout the EU under the Motor Insurance Directive.
A broad range of insurers serve the Greek market, including both international groups and home-grown providers. Depending on your circumstances and budget, you can opt for fully comprehensive cover, third-party fire and theft, or basic third-party liability. Comparing policies thoroughly is strongly recommended, as premiums can vary widely according to the vehicle’s value, the driver’s age, claims history, and where the vehicle is kept.
Expats arriving from countries where driving records are stored on centralised systems may find it relatively straightforward to transfer their no-claims history — a number of Greek insurers will accept a formal No Claims Bonus (NCB) letter from a recognised overseas insurer, though acceptance is ultimately at each insurer’s discretion. Request confirmation directly from any insurer you are considering as to what supporting evidence they will accept.
At a minimum, a third-party policy must be in force before or at the point of vehicle registration. Temporary cover may also be necessary during the import phase, prior to full registration being completed. For regulatory guidance on the Greek insurance sector, refer to the Hellenic Association of Insurance Companies (EAEE) or the Hellenic Capital Market Commission, which has supervisory oversight of financial services including insurance.
Prominent breakdown and roadside assistance organisations operating in Greece include ELPA (the Greek Automobile and Touring Club), Interamerican Assistance, and AXA Assistance. Adding a roadside assistance package to your motor insurance is particularly worth considering given the often remote and rugged terrain in rural parts of the country and on the islands.
What driving licence do I need in Greece as an expat?
As a full EU member state, Greece recognises driving licences issued by other EU and EEA countries as fully valid without any time restriction or conversion requirement — holders may simply continue driving on their existing licence for as long as it remains in force. This makes the situation considerably simpler than in many non-EU jurisdictions, where residents may face a narrow window within which to convert their licence.
Holders of licences issued in non-EU countries may drive in Greece for a limited period. As a general rule, a valid foreign licence is accepted for tourists and those on short-term visits. Once you become a permanent resident, you will ordinarily be required to exchange your licence for a Greek one, though the precise timeline and procedure depends on your nationality and any applicable bilateral arrangements between Greece and your home country.
An International Driving Permit (IDP) is advisable — and in some situations obligatory — for those whose licences were issued outside the EU, particularly if the licence is not printed in the Latin alphabet. The IDP functions as an official translation document and should always be carried alongside the original licence.
The exchange of a foreign driving licence for a Greek equivalent is managed by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. EU licence holders residing in Greece may opt to have their licence voluntarily exchanged for a Greek version. Non-EU licence holders are generally required to exchange their licence upon establishing permanent residency; this process typically involves a medical examination and a formal application to the relevant regional transport authority. Always verify the current procedure and any bilateral agreements that may affect your specific licence with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, as requirements can evolve and reciprocal arrangements differ by country of issue.
How do I sell a car in Greece?
Transferring ownership of a vehicle in Greece requires a formal process to ensure that responsibility for road tax, insurance, and any future penalties passes properly to the incoming owner. Never hand over the keys and registration paperwork without completing the official transfer, as you could remain legally and financially liable for the vehicle until it is formally re-registered in the new owner’s name.
Before listing the vehicle for sale, make sure it holds a valid KTEO certificate and that all road tax obligations are settled. All vehicles must carry a valid Technical Control Certificate and a valid Exhaust Emissions Control Card before a sale can legally proceed. Any outstanding fines or tax arrears associated with the vehicle should be cleared prior to completing the transfer.
The selling process typically involves the following steps:
- Prepare documentation: Gather the vehicle registration document (grey card), valid KTEO certificate, emissions control card, proof of road tax payment, and your AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number).
- Draw up a private contract of sale: This signed agreement records the sale price, the identities of buyer and seller, and the vehicle details. Both parties retain a copy.
- Complete the official transfer: When selling, transfer registration via the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport, providing buyer details and settling any outstanding taxes. This can be done at a KEP or the relevant regional transport office.
- Notify the tax authority: The change of ownership must be recorded with AADE so that liability for annual road tax passes to the new owner.
- Retain proof of transfer: Keep all signed documents confirming the completed transfer, as protection against future claims.
For private individuals, selling a personal vehicle in Greece is generally not regarded as a taxable capital gains event — vehicles are depreciating assets. However, if you are selling multiple vehicles or acting in a commercial capacity, tax obligations may arise. Seek advice from a local accountant or tax adviser regarding your personal circumstances, and check the current position with AADE.
Are there any ongoing costs or obligations for vehicle ownership in Greece?
One recurring administrative requirement that every expat vehicle owner in Greece will encounter is the annual road tax, known as teli kykloforias. Any vehicle carrying Greek licence plates must have this fee paid in order to be lawfully driven on public roads. The amount is calculated according to engine size and is remitted to AADE. The deadline for payment falls at the end of each calendar year, on 31 December.
If your vehicle will be sitting unused at a holiday property or second home for an extended period, Greece provides an option to declare it “immobilised” (ακινησία) via the myCAR online portal. A vehicle declared off the road cannot be driven and is exempt from road tax for the relevant period. This arrangement is particularly useful for those who divide their time between Greece and another country.
From 2025 onward, AADE is increasingly strict: vehicles with unpaid tax, no insurance, or overdue KTEO inspections are flagged automatically, and fines can reach €2,000. Keeping all obligations current is therefore especially important.
The KTEO vehicle inspection programme is Greece’s equivalent of the periodic roadworthiness testing carried out in many other countries — conceptually similar to the MOT used in several European nations, though on a two-yearly cycle for most private cars. Vehicles more than four years old require a valid KTEO certificate, which must be renewed every two years. Testing can be carried out at public KTEO centres run by the Ministry of Transport — with at least one in every prefecture — or at any licensed private test centre (IKTEO).
The inspection covers the vehicle’s exterior and interior condition, engine, tyres, front windscreen, doors, frame, lights, bumpers, horn, indicators, windscreen wipers, seats, and safety equipment. An Exhaust Emissions Control examination must be carried out alongside the Technical Control test. The emissions check is required annually for passenger cars and light goods vehicles with a gross weight of up to 3.5 tonnes.
To summarise, the principal ongoing obligations for vehicle owners in Greece are:
- Annual road tax (Teli Kykloforias): Paid to AADE, based on engine capacity; due by 31 December each year.
- KTEO roadworthiness inspection: Every two years for vehicles over four years old; cost approximately €40–€50 (as of 2024), plus any required repairs.
- Annual exhaust emissions test: Required for all cars subject to KTEO, on an annual basis.
- Compulsory third-party insurance: Must remain in force at all times while the vehicle is on the road.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM) to buy a car in Greece?
Yes. The AFM is a prerequisite for virtually every formal procedure in Greece, including vehicle registration, road tax payments, and ownership transfers. You can obtain one from any local tax office (Eforia) by presenting your passport and proof of address. Non-residents may be required to appoint a local tax representative; check the current requirements with AADE.
Can a non-resident buy and register a car in Greece?
Before purchasing a car in Greece, it is worth considering how long you intend to stay. Greek regulations draw a clear distinction between temporary visitors and permanent residents, with different implications for taxation, registration, and driving entitlements. Non-residents may buy a vehicle but could face limitations on registration. Those staying for fewer than 185 days may be permitted to use a foreign-plated vehicle temporarily without completing full Greek registration. Verify the applicable rules with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport.
Is a right-hand-drive vehicle permitted in Greece?
No. Greece, like the vast majority of EU member states, drives on the right. Right-hand-drive vehicles are not eligible for permanent registration with Greek plates. If you are relocating from a country where traffic moves on the left and you wish to bring your car, it will not be registrable in Greece in its original right-hand-drive form.
What is the “transfer of habitual residence” exemption, and who qualifies?
This exemption is available to people relocating their habitual residence to Greece — defined as the place where they live for at least 185 days per year by virtue of personal and professional ties. To be eligible, the applicant must have been habitually resident outside Greece for no less than two years prior to the move. The relief covers customs duties, VAT, registration fees, and environmental levies. You should apply through the Greek Consulate in your current country of residence before relocating, or contact AADE if you have already arrived in Greece.
How long does the vehicle registration process take in Greece?
Once documents have been submitted, the relevant official issues a temporary licence. The definitive registration document is generally available within approximately seven days. For vehicles being imported from outside the EU, however, the customs clearance and tax settlement stages can add a substantial amount of time to the overall process. Engaging a local customs broker or legal adviser can help keep delays to a minimum.
Will my foreign no-claims bonus be recognised by Greek insurers?
A number of Greek insurers are willing to accept a No Claims Bonus letter issued by a recognised foreign insurer, but there is no legal obligation for them to do so — it remains a matter of individual insurer policy. It is advisable to request a formal NCB certificate from your current insurer before leaving your home country, as this may help reduce your premiums with a new Greek provider. Contact prospective insurers directly to establish what evidence they will accept. For broader guidance on the Greek insurance market, refer to the Hellenic Association of Insurance Companies (EAEE).
What happens if I miss the KTEO inspection or road tax payment deadline?
From 2025 onward, vehicles with unpaid tax, no insurance, or overdue KTEO inspections are flagged automatically by AADE, and fines can reach €2,000. If you know you will not be using the vehicle for a period, declaring it “immobilised” (ακινησία) through the myCAR system before the year-end deadline will legally suspend your road tax obligation for that period. For the most current penalty rates and deadlines, consult AADE directly.
Where can I find official information on importing vehicles and customs duties in Greece?
The main official resource for customs and tax obligations related to vehicle imports is the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), which provides guidance on import duty rates, VAT, registration taxes, and removal-goods exemptions. For matters concerning vehicle registration and roadworthiness standards, consult the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport. Driving licence queries should also be directed to the Ministry’s transport licensing directorate. For insurance-related questions, the Hellenic Association of Insurance Companies (EAEE) is the relevant body.