Greece – Self-Employment

How does self-employment work for expats in Greece?

Greece welcomes foreign investors and permits both EU and non-EU nationals to establish businesses. The rules, however, vary considerably depending on your citizenship and current legal status in the country, so it is vital to understand your position before taking any action.

Citizens of EU, EEA, and Swiss member states have the same right to reside and work in Greece as Greek nationals — including the right to operate as self-employed — without needing a separate business visa or work authorisation. They are, nonetheless, required to register with the Greek tax authority and the national social security fund once they begin any commercial activity.

To register as a sole proprietor in Greece, you must be at least 18 years old, hold Greek or EU citizenship (or a valid residence permit that explicitly permits self-employment), and possess a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM). This AFM is the cornerstone of all tax and business dealings in Greece, serving a similar function to a tax file number in other countries.

Non-EU nationals must ensure that their residence permit specifically grants them the right to start a business in Greece — simply arriving from outside the EU for reasons unrelated to business or employment will not confer that right. This is a critical distinction: many visa and residency categories do not unlock self-employment, so always verify the terms of your specific permit with the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum.

There are three categories that people often conflate — freelancers, self-employed individuals, and remote workers — though in practice these distinctions are highly technical and rarely significant for day-to-day purposes. What the Greek authorities primarily care about is that you earn sufficient income, meet all tax obligations, and hold the correct legal status.

Greece has a reputation for administrative complexity, yet registering as a sole proprietor (ατομική επιχείρηση) is actually one of the more straightforward routes into self-employment. The process is overseen by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), which handles tax registration and issues your certificate of business commencement. You can access AADE’s services at aade.gr.

What are the different self-employment and business structures available in Greece?

Greece’s primary business forms include the sole proprietorship, general partnership, limited partnership, limited liability company, public limited company, and foreign company branch. Each carries a distinct risk profile, level of administrative complexity, and tax treatment.

Sole Proprietorship (Ατομική Επιχείρηση)
A sole proprietorship demands no minimum capital, making it well suited for individuals delivering professional or small-scale services. It is the easiest structure to establish and is widely used by freelancers, consultants, and tradespeople. Its main drawback is that the owner bears unlimited personal liability for all business debts — just as a sole trader in Ireland or Australia faces personal exposure if the enterprise fails, with personal assets potentially at risk.

Private Company (I.K.E. – Ιδιωτική Κεφαλαιουχική Εταιρεία)
The Private Company (I.K.E.) was created under Law 4072/2012 as a contemporary replacement for the older E.P.E. structure. It has since become one of the most widely chosen business forms in Greece, particularly among startups and foreign entrepreneurs. The I.K.E. requires just €1 in minimum capital, and contributions may take the form of money, assets, or even personal labour. It provides full limited liability, a streamlined formation process, and an adaptable internal structure — broadly comparable to a private limited company elsewhere in Europe — making it the go-to choice for foreign investors and small founding teams.

Limited Liability Company (E.P.E. – Εταιρεία Περιορισμένης Ευθύνης)
The E.P.E. is suitable for small to medium-sized businesses and combines characteristics of both partnerships and corporations, extending limited liability to its members. The minimum capital requirement is €4,500, at least half of which must be paid in cash upon incorporation. Although still in use, this structure has lost ground to the more accessible I.K.E. in recent years.

Public Limited Company (A.E. – Ανώνυμη Εταιρεία)
The A.E. is designed for larger enterprises that intend to raise capital or operate at a national or international scale. It requires a minimum share capital of €25,000 and must be governed by a board of directors. Shareholders carry liability only up to the value of their investment. Though administratively more demanding, the A.E. commands the greatest institutional credibility and is the standard vehicle for corporations, listed companies, and businesses seeking external investment.

Partnerships (O.E. and E.E.)
Partnerships carry no minimum capital requirement and are governed by the Greek Civil Code. In a general partnership (O.E.), two or more partners share jointly in profits, management responsibilities, and losses, with each partner personally liable for the business’s financial obligations. A limited partnership (E.E.) extends limited liability to silent partners, while the general partners handle day-to-day management.

The I.K.E. structure is especially popular among expat founders for its combination of flexibility and minimal start-up capital. For most individual expat freelancers in the early stages of their venture, either a sole proprietorship or an I.K.E. will be the most practical and cost-effective choice.

How do you register as self-employed in Greece?

All submissions are made digitally through your TAXISnet credentials — Greece’s official online tax portal — covering details such as your activity code (KAD), business address, and VAT status. Before you begin, you must hold a valid AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number) and have activated your TAXISnet account. TAXISnet is accessible at aade.gr.

1. Obtain your AFM (Tax Identification Number)
   Visit your local Tax Office (DOY) or apply through AADE with your passport and proof of address. Non-EU nationals may need to appoint a tax representative for this step. For non-EU nationals residing abroad, the application is submitted by a tax representative in Greece on their behalf to the Tax Office (DOY) or GEMI.
2. Register for TAXISnet
   Once your AFM has been issued, activate your TAXISnet online account. This portal provides access to all tax filings and the digital business registration system.
3. Choose your activity code (KAD)
   Identify the Κωδικός Αριθμός Δραστηριότητας (KAD) that most accurately describes what your business does. Multiple codes can be held if your activities span more than one category.
4. Check and reserve your business name (optional)
   Your chosen business name must be unique. You can verify its availability through the GEMI e-OSS portal. Name reservation is optional for sole traders but advisable if you intend to trade under a name other than your own.
5. Submit your Business Commencement Declaration via TAXISnet
   Log in to TAXISnet and enter your activity code, business address, and VAT status. A digitally signed commencement certificate is typically issued within minutes, authorising you to begin trading.
6. Register with e-EFKA (Social Security Fund)
   Monthly contributions to e-EFKA, the national social security fund, are compulsory. The rate depends on the insurance tier you choose, and these payments entitle you to healthcare and pension coverage. Register at efka.gov.gr immediately upon receiving your business commencement certificate.
7. Register for VAT (if applicable)
   VAT registration is obligatory where your turnover exceeds the applicable threshold or where your activity is subject to VAT. Registration is processed through AADE as part of your TAXISnet submission.

Registration fees are minimal. Optional business name registration costs approximately €10, with an annual GEMI fee of €30 and a Chamber fee of €20 (as of 2025). Always confirm current fees directly with GEMI or AADE, as these amounts may be updated. The entire process typically takes under an hour via the government portal.

How do you set up a company in Greece as an expat?

Foreign nationals can establish a company in Greece. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership, and the registration process is essentially the same for residents and non-residents alike. EU and non-EU investors can form or own companies under any of the available structures, provided they appoint a local tax representative and satisfy identification and residency requirements where applicable.

Greece offers a fully digital company formation system aligned with EU rules, including Directive 2017/1132 and the amendments introduced by Directive 2019/1151. The central portal is eyms.businessportal.gr. For an I.K.E. — the structure most commonly chosen by expat founders — the steps are as follows:

1. Choose your legal structure
   Assess which business form best suits your circumstances, selecting from options such as a sole proprietorship, I.K.E., E.P.E., or A.E. Each has different implications for taxation, liability, and management. For the majority of expat-led small businesses and startups, the I.K.E. is the preferred option given its €1 minimum capital and full limited liability.
2. Obtain an AFM for all founders
   Every company founder must hold a Greek Tax Identification Number (TIN). EU citizens may obtain this in person at a local tax office; non-EU founders typically need a tax representative to act on their behalf.
3. Reserve your company name via GEMI
   Use the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) portal to check availability and secure your company name. Private companies must include the words “Ιδιωτική Κεφαλαιουχική Εταιρία” or the abbreviation “IKE” in their name.
4. Draft the Articles of Association (Statutes)
   These documents operate like corporate bylaws, setting out the company’s structure, share distribution, management arrangements, and profit allocation. For an I.K.E. or E.P.E., articles can be drafted digitally via gov.gr. For an A.E., a notarial deed is required.
5. Register with GEMI (General Commercial Registry)
   Submit the required documentation through the One-Stop Service, either online or at a notary or public service centre. Once approved, the company is formally registered and a GEMI number is assigned. I.K.E. incorporation typically takes around five days.
6. Obtain the company’s Tax Number and VAT Registration
   Following registration, your company automatically receives its tax number and VAT status through the tax authority’s integrated system.
7. Register with e-EFKA
   Your company must be registered with EFKA, the Greek social security organisation, before taking on employees. Even where you are the sole director, you will generally need to register as an insured person from the outset.
8. Open a Business Bank Account
   A Greek business bank account is necessary for capital deposits and day-to-day operations. Non-EU founders who are not yet resident in Greece may find this the most time-consuming step; engaging a local accountant or tax representative significantly eases the process.

For the most up-to-date requirements, consult the GEMI official portal and the Enterprise Greece investment promotion agency, which publishes guidance and offers direct support to foreign investors.

Can you work as a digital nomad in Greece?

Greece launched a Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) in 2021 to attract location-independent professionals, and it continues to draw considerable interest from non-EU remote workers seeking a Mediterranean base. The visa is a clearly defined legal pathway — not a loophole — and carries a meaningful tax benefit for those who choose to stay longer term.

The Digital Nomad Visa was established by Law 4825/2021 as part of Greece’s strategy to attract remote professionals who generate income abroad without competing for local employment. The premise is straightforward: you may live legally in Greece and continue your remote work, provided your employer or clients are based outside Greece.

Who can apply?
The Greece Digital Nomad Visa is open to non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals who wish to reside in Greece while maintaining their professional activity remotely for companies, clients, or businesses located outside Greece. Eligible applicants include employees, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who can demonstrate a reliable income and satisfy other requirements such as health insurance and a clean criminal record.

Income requirements (as of 2025)
The primary applicant must demonstrate net monthly income of at least €3,500 when applying alone, €4,200 when accompanied by a spouse, and €4,830 when bringing additional dependants. Always confirm the current thresholds with the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum or the nearest Greek consulate, as these figures are subject to revision.

Duration and extension
The visa is initially granted for 12 months. At expiry, holders may apply for a digital nomad residence permit that is renewable every two years.

How to apply
Since 2024, applications must be lodged at Greek consular posts in the applicant’s country of residence; in-country applications are no longer accepted. Required documentation includes proof of remote employment or freelance work, bank statements, health insurance coverage, a criminal record certificate, and evidence of accommodation.

Tax treatment
Spending fewer than 183 days in Greece means you will not be liable for Greek taxes as a digital nomad. Exceeding 183 days triggers Greek tax residency, which also opens access to public healthcare and educational services. Greece provides a 50% exemption on professional income tax for digital nomads who commit to residing in the country for a minimum of two years. This incentive is available for up to seven years and applies exclusively to non-EU/EEA nationals.

Important restriction
Holders of the Digital Nomad Visa are prohibited from taking employment with a Greek-registered company, conducting business operations within Greece, or supplying services to Greek-based clients. If your work arrangements change and you need to engage with a Greek entity, you will require a different permit category.

What taxes and social contributions apply to self-employed expats and business owners in Greece?

Greece operates a comprehensive tax system administered by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). Self-employed individuals and company owners face obligations covering income tax, corporate tax, VAT, and social contributions. Unlike salaried employment — where an employer deducts and remits tax directly — the self-employed must calculate and settle their own tax liabilities, including advance payments based on projected income.

Personal income tax for the self-employed and sole traders
Sole proprietors are assessed as individuals on their net business profits, declared annually through a personal income tax return (Form E1). Greece applies progressive rates: 9% on income up to €10,000; 22% on €10,001–20,000; 28% on €20,001–30,000; 36% on €30,001–40,000; and 44% on amounts exceeding €40,000 (2025 brackets).

Presumptive (imputed) income
Greece has introduced a minimum imputed income rule for freelancers to address underreporting. Under Law 5073/2023, the tax authority treats a freelancer’s income as being at least equivalent to what an employee earning the national minimum wage would earn annually. For tax year 2024, this minimum imputed income is approximately €11,620. Even where declared earnings fall below this figure, tax may still be assessed on this baseline amount.

Corporate tax
Companies incorporated in Greece — including the widely used I.K.E. — are subject to corporate income tax at a rate of 22% (as of 2025). Dividends paid out to shareholders are generally subject to a separate withholding tax.

VAT
The standard VAT rate in Greece is 24%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% applicable to certain goods and services. VAT-registered sole proprietors must submit periodic returns and display their VAT number on all invoices. Businesses and self-employed individuals are generally required to charge VAT to EU-based clients. Different rules apply when invoicing clients outside the EU — seek advice from a tax professional for your specific circumstances.

Social security contributions (e-EFKA)
Monthly contributions to e-EFKA, the national social security fund, are mandatory. The amount depends on your chosen insurance tier, and payments entitle you to healthcare and pension coverage. These contributions are deductible from taxable income. Unlike employed workers — where contributions are divided between employer and employee — self-employed individuals bear both sides of the contribution themselves, which requires careful financial planning.

e-invoicing and reporting
MyDATA is the online platform through which businesses transmit income and expense data to the tax authorities in real time. Up to 2024, freelancers were required to submit summary invoice data to myDATA. From 2025, the obligation goes further: invoices must be generated directly through a certified e-invoicing system that integrates with myDATA.

Quarterly advance payments
Businesses, self-employed individuals, and in some cases those with Greek rental income are required to file and pay estimated taxes on a quarterly basis. This differs from the annual-only approach used in some other countries and calls for careful cash-flow management throughout the year.

Tax treaties
Greece has double taxation agreements with a wide range of countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and most EU member states. These treaties can significantly influence how your income is taxed when you have earnings in more than one jurisdiction. Always verify treaty applicability with a qualified tax adviser and consult AADE for the current list of active treaties.

Business levy abolition
As of 2025, the Greek government has removed the business levy for self-employed individuals. Freelancers operating as sole traders are no longer required to pay this additional charge from 2025 onward. The levy continues to apply to corporations.

Are there any incentives, grants, or programmes to encourage expat entrepreneurs in Greece?

Greece has put in place several targeted schemes aimed at drawing foreign professionals and business founders to the country. These range from substantial income tax reductions to dedicated visa pathways for startup talent.

50% income tax reduction for new tax residents
Under Article 5C of the Income Tax Code, Greece offers a special tax incentive to individuals who transfer their tax residence to Greece. Qualifying new residents may benefit from a 50% exemption on income tax for up to seven years. The incentive is open to any worker who relocates their tax base to Greece, irrespective of nationality or profession. To be eligible, you must generally not have been a Greek tax resident in at least five of the preceding six years. This is among the most competitive such schemes in Europe, comparable in scope to Portugal’s former Non-Habitual Resident (NHR) programme, which was restructured in 2024.

Reduced tax rate for new sole traders
New sole traders may benefit from a reduced tax rate — for instance, a 4.5% rate on profits below €10,000 for the first three years, subject to eligibility. Current criteria should be verified directly with AADE, as the conditions attached to this benefit can change.

Digital Nomad Visa with tax benefits
As described above, individuals who become Greek tax residents under Law 4825/2021 may qualify for a 50% reduction in income tax for up to seven years, subject to meeting specific conditions. This makes the Digital Nomad Visa especially attractive for remote professionals intending a long-term stay.

Startup Visa and Elevate Greece
Third-country nationals seeking to work exclusively at companies registered in the National Startup Registry (“Elevate Greece”) may be granted a National Visa for entry and residence of 12 months, commonly referred to as a “Tech Visa”. Elevate Greece is the government’s official startup registry and ecosystem platform, offering resources, connections, and formal recognition to innovative businesses. Registration on Elevate Greece can also facilitate access to funding programmes and EU grant schemes.

Enterprise Greece
Enterprise Greece is the government’s official body for investment and trade promotion. It provides guidance on investment incentives, licensing requirements, sector-specific assistance, and links to government programmes. Foreign entrepreneurs are encouraged to engage with Enterprise Greece at an early stage of their planning.

EU and national grant programmes
Greece draws on EU structural and cohesion funds, which periodically finance grant programmes for SMEs and startups. These programmes typically require Greek or EU company registration and carry specific eligibility conditions. The ESPA portal lists active co-funded development initiatives. Availability and application deadlines shift frequently, so it is worth checking regularly for open calls.

What are the practical challenges of being self-employed or running a business in Greece?

Greece has made considerable progress in digitalising its tax and business administration, but expat entrepreneurs will still encounter real practical obstacles that are worth anticipating before you set up.

Language in bureaucratic processes
Although the TAXISnet portal and GEMI registration platforms have become more accessible, the vast majority of official correspondence, tax forms, and legal documents remain in Greek. Articles of Association must be prepared in Greek and, for certain company types, notarised by a public notary — a step that ensures compliance with Greek legal standards. Engaging a bilingual accountant or lawyer is not merely advisable in practice; it is effectively indispensable.

The role of a local accountant (Λογιστής)
In Greece, a licensed accountant occupies a central position in managing your tax affairs. They typically oversee your TAXISnet filings, quarterly advance tax payments, e-EFKA contributions, VAT returns, and myDATA reporting. Unlike certain countries where self-filing is a realistic option for small operators, the interplay of quarterly obligations, myDATA e-invoicing mandates, and imputed income rules makes professional support not just helpful but strongly advisable from day one.

Banking access
Establishing a Greek business bank account as a non-resident can be difficult. Most Greek banks require an AFM, a local address, and — for non-EU nationals — a valid residence permit. The process can stretch over several weeks. Fintech solutions may provide a short-term bridge, but a Greek bank account is ultimately necessary for VAT returns, payroll, and GEMI compliance.

e-invoicing compliance
From 2025, all invoices must be produced through a certified e-invoicing system linked to myDATA. Paper invoices are being phased out entirely for B2B transactions, with every invoice issued to a VAT-registered client reported to the tax authority in real time at the point of creation. Adopting compliant accounting software before you issue your first invoice will prevent significant administrative difficulties later on.

Common pitfalls for expats
Beginning work before completing registration is a frequent error and can trigger penalties as well as retroactive contribution demands. Underestimating the cost of e-EFKA contributions — which fall due every month regardless of how much you earn — can also place unexpected strain on cash flow. Additionally, misunderstanding the Digital Nomad Visa’s prohibition on working with Greek-based clients can create serious compliance problems.

Networking and professional support
Greece has a steadily growing community of expat professionals. Platforms such as Elevate Greece and Enterprise Greece can connect you with advisers and fellow entrepreneurs. Local Chambers of Commerce also provide support services to registered businesses. Establishing a network early — including a dependable accountant, a lawyer with immigration expertise, and ideally a local business contact — makes navigating Greek bureaucracy considerably less daunting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I be both employed and self-employed at the same time in Greece?

Yes, holding employment while also being registered as self-employed is legally permitted in Greece. Each status carries its own separate tax and social security obligations. Income from self-employment is assessed alongside employment income under the same progressive personal income tax scale. Make sure your accountant is aware of both income streams to ensure accurate reporting on your annual tax return (Form E1) and to prevent underpayment penalties.

How do I invoice foreign clients as a self-employed person in Greece?

If you are a freelancer billing other businesses, invoices must be issued electronically through the government-approved myDATA platform. Greece obtained EU authorisation for this mandate, effective from July 2025 to 2027, as part of its anti-tax-evasion measures. For clients outside the EU, VAT is generally not added to services, but the transaction must still be reported through myDATA. Use compliant accounting software and discuss the correct treatment with your accountant, as the applicable rules differ according to the client’s location and the nature of the service provided.

What happens to my business registration if my visa or residency status changes?

If you take on a local employment contract with a Greek employer or your circumstances shift in other ways, a different type of permit may be required. Similarly, if your residence permit lapses or is not extended, your entitlement to run a business in Greece may be affected. Keep your residency status valid at all times and ensure it continues to authorise self-employment. Notify AADE and e-EFKA promptly of any changes to avoid complications with your tax record.

Do I need to register for VAT immediately when I start self-employment?

VAT registration is required once your turnover surpasses the applicable threshold or where your activity falls within the scope of VAT. The standard rate is 24%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% for certain goods and services. Some activities — including specific medical, educational, and financial services — are fully exempt from VAT. Confirm the current threshold and exemption categories with AADE or your accountant before you begin trading, since these can change.

Can a Digital Nomad Visa holder register a Greek company or become self-employed locally?

No. The Digital Nomad Visa explicitly prohibits taking employment with a Greek-registered company, carrying out business operations inside Greece, or providing services to Greek clients. Breaching these conditions can result in the visa being cancelled. The DNV is designed solely for remote workers whose income and client base remain outside Greece. Should you wish to establish a Greek-registered business or engage with Greek clients, you will need to obtain a different visa or residency permit — seek advice from an immigration lawyer before making any changes to your arrangements.

Is a Greek accountant legally required, or just recommended?

There is no universal legal obligation for every self-employed person to retain a licensed accountant, but the complexity of Greek tax law — encompassing myDATA e-invoicing, quarterly advance tax payments, e-EFKA contributions, and imputed income calculations — makes professional support effectively unavoidable for most operators. For companies (I.K.E., A.E., E.P.E.), maintaining formal accounting records and submitting periodic filings to AADE is a legal requirement, and a licensed accountant will ordinarily manage this on your behalf. Factor ongoing accountancy fees into your business costs from the very beginning.

How long does it take to incorporate a private company (I.K.E.) in Greece?

The I.K.E. registration process itself takes approximately five days. End-to-end, the overall timeline is typically two to four weeks, depending on your entity type, the completeness of your documentation, and whether you are in Greece in person to open a bank account. The digital registration process via the GEMI One-Stop Service portal has cut timelines substantially compared to earlier years. Preparing all documents in advance — AFM, proof of address, articles of association, capital evidence — will minimise unnecessary delays.

Does Greece have a totalization agreement that affects social security for self-employed expats?

Greece and the United States have a totalization agreement that prevents US nationals residing in Greece from being taxed on social security contributions in both countries simultaneously. Within the EU and EEA, Greece follows social security coordination rules, meaning that EU citizens who have been contributing to a social security system in another EU country may be able to count those contribution periods towards their Greek entitlements. Check the rules that apply to your individual situation with e-EFKA and, where relevant, the social security authority in your country of origin, as the arrangements are complex and highly dependent on personal circumstances.