Overview of Local Registration in Greece
Foreign nationals moving to Greece are required to formalize their stay through specific registration processes. The requirements and procedures differ significantly based on the individual's citizenship (EU/EEA vs. non-EU) and the intended duration of stay. For stays exceeding 90 days, administrative registration is mandatory to access healthcare, employment, and housing markets.
The Greek administrative system has transitioned toward digital platforms via the Gov.gr portal, though many initial registration steps still require physical appointments at local police stations, Decentralized Administration offices, or Citizens’ Service Centers (KEP).
Registration for EU, EEA, and Swiss Citizens
Citizens of European Union member states, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland do not require a visa to enter Greece. However, if they intend to reside in the country for more than three months, they must apply for a Registration Certificate (Bebeosi Eggrafis), often referred to as the "Blue Paper."
Required Documentation
- Valid passport or national ID card.
- Proof of address in Greece (e.g., a lease agreement or utility bill).
- Proof of employment, business activity, or sufficient financial resources.
- Comprehensive health insurance coverage (private or state-provided).
This registration is performed at the Aliens Department of the local Police Station serving the resident's neighborhood. The certificate is issued free of charge, although a small administrative stamp fee (paravolo) of approximately 0.30 EUR ($0.32 USD, Jan 2026) may occasionally be requested for the physical document.
Residence Permits for Non-EU Nationals
Non-EU nationals (Third-Country Nationals) must generally enter Greece with a long-stay National Visa (D-Visa) and apply for a Residence Permit (RP) shortly after arrival. Since 2024, most applications are submitted electronically through the Ministry of Migration and Asylum portal.
Categories and Costs
The administrative fees (paravolo) for residence permits vary by type:
- Standard Employment: 150 EUR ($157.50 USD, Jan 2026).
- Digital Nomad Visa: 1,000 EUR ($1,050 USD, Jan 2026).
- Golden Visa (Investment): 2,000 EUR ($2,100 USD, Jan 2026).
- Card Production Fee: A separate fee of 16 EUR ($16.80 USD, Jan 2026) is required for the printing of the biometric card for all categories.
Note: Upon successful submission of the application, the applicant receives a "Veveosi" (Certificate of Deposit), which serves as a temporary residence permit until the biometric card is issued.
Essential Identification Numbers: AFM and AMKA
Regardless of residency status, two identification numbers are essential for living and working in Greece: the AFM and the AMKA.
AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitrou)
The AFM is a nine-digit tax identification number required for opening a bank account, signing a lease, or purchasing a vehicle. It is issued by the local Tax Office (D.O.Y.). Foreigners without a permanent residence permit must often appoint a "Tax Representative" who is a Greek tax resident.
AMKA (Arithmos Mitrou Koinonikis Asfalisis)
The AMKA is the Greek Social Security number, essential for accessing the public healthcare system and employment. For foreign nationals, this is typically issued at e-EFKA offices or KEP centers upon presentation of a residence permit or the "Blue Paper" for EU citizens.
Practical Steps and Timeline
The registration process typically follows this chronological order:
- Week 1: Secure local accommodation and obtain a certified lease agreement.
- Week 2: Apply for the AFM at the local D.O.Y. office.
- Week 3: Submit the Residence Permit application (Non-EU) or visit the Police (EU) for the Registration Certificate.
- Variable: Attend a biometrics appointment (Non-EU) at the Decentralized Administration.
The processing time for a biometric residence card can range from 2 to 6 months depending on the region and the specific workload of the immigration office. Residents should ensure their name is clearly visible on their mailbox to receive the notification for card pickup.
