Greece is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations for expats from all over the world. It offers many attractions and an idyllic setting, ensuring a high quality of life, and its capital Athens is the centre of attraction for many retirees and digital nomads. Indeed, the Greek capital has many assets worthy of a major European metropolis, even if of course not everything is rosy. Whether it's the gastronomy, the climate or the safety, there are many reasons why the Greek capital is the destination of choice for your expatriation. Lisbob, the expat assistant, reveals the 9 good reasons to move to Athens.
Ah, Crete! When you set foot on this enchanting Greek island, you never cease to be amazed by its beauty and gentle way of life. Climate, landscape, people: the island in the middle of the Mediterranean has it all. If you're wondering why you should move to Crete, then let me tell you why so many people have decided to take the plunge and, I hope, inspire you to give it a try. I'm Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I'll be revealing my 9 good reasons for moving to Crete.
Obtaining a Greek tax number, called AFM (pronounced AFIMI), is essential when you decide to settle in Greece. Indeed, you need an AFM tax number to work legally in Greece, to open a bank account or to buy a property. In order to apply for and obtain an AFM, you need to present certain documents and evidence and follow certain steps. Recently, it has become possible to apply for it entirely online, without having to be in Greece. Also, this number allows you to access the online services of the Greek tax authorities, for example to file your tax return. Lisbob, the expatriate assistant in Greece, tells you everything about how to apply for and obtain a Greek AFM tax number online or in Greece, step by step.
When moving abroad, it is also necessary to prepare the registration of your car. Indeed, each European country has its own legislation concerning the registration of vehicles and the taxes that apply to them, and many expats are ill-prepared (or not at all) and have had to face disappointments. If you have decided to stay in Greece for a long time and take your vehicle with you, you will inevitably have to take the administrative step of registering your vehicle and obtaining Greek plates. From the moment you stay more than 185 days in Greece, you will have to do this registration. How to register a foreign vehicle in Greece? I’m Lisbob, the expat assistant, and I am going to explain everything you need to know about getting Greek license plates.
European tax harmonisation is a distant dream, and each country is free to introduce its own tax measures to attract retired taxpayers to their territory. Spain, Portugal and Italy have special tax statuses that allow them to pay less or no tax. Since 2020, it is now Greece that has entered the belly-dance for retirees. The country has changed its tax regime, going one step further than the former NHR status in Portugal, and offering a flat rate of 7% for a period of 15 years on private sector retirement pensions and dividends. Before embarking on your project, it is important to be aware of the rules governing the new Greek tax arrangements. In order to make the right decisions and have all the cards in your hand, Lisbob, the expatriate assistant, tells you all about this new tax status for retirees in Greece.
Greece’s tax system can be too complicated for many foreigners who come to work and live in the country. New language, new procedures, there are certain things to learn before you decide to buy a property, start a business or move to Greece to work. In order to make things clearer, I’m Lisbob, the expats assistant, and I have put together some basic information about taxes for expatriates in the Hellenic Republic.
