Greek AFM, Bank Account, and Buyer Paperwork: What Foreign Buyers Need
Why this matters
You cannot buy Greek property smoothly without basic Greek tax and banking paperwork. The most searched question is often simple: what do I need before I sign?
The answer is also simple. Set up the paperwork before you make a binding offer.
The key items
- AFM: your Greek tax number.
- Taxisnet or myAADE access: used for tax filings and owner records.
- Greek tax representative: often needed if you live outside Greece.
- Bank account or payment route: used for funds, tax payments, and utilities.
- Proof of funds: banks, lawyers, and notaries may ask where the money came from.
- Certified documents: passports, company papers, powers of attorney, or marital documents may need translation or apostille.
When to do it
Start as soon as you know you are serious. An AFM can be arranged before you choose the final property. A lawyer or accountant can tell you what documents apply to your country and ownership plan.
If you leave this until the final week, you may delay the notary appointment. You may also rush the wrong decisions, such as buying in one name when a family or company structure would have been better.
Practical checklist
Ask your lawyer or accountant these questions:
- Do I need to visit Greece, or can I use a power of attorney?
- Do I need a Greek tax representative?
- Which documents need translation?
- Can purchase funds come from my overseas account?
- Who will file E9 and future Greek tax returns?
Keep copies of every payment, exchange receipt, and bank transfer. You may need them for the notary, your bank, your tax file, or a future sale.
Common mistake
Some buyers wait until the seller accepts an offer before they arrange an AFM. That can work, but it adds pressure. If you are buying from overseas, build time for courier delays, bank checks, translations, and appointment dates.
A clean admin file also helps the seller take you seriously. It shows that you can move from interest to contract without avoidable delays.
Useful next read: Greece Property Taxes and Buying Costs for Foreign Buyers in 2026.
