Taxes

Taxes in Greece

Greece offers some of Europe's most attractive tax incentives for new residents, balanced against relatively high standard rates. Understanding the special regimes is key to tax optimization.

Tax Residency

You become a Greek tax resident if you:

• Spend 183+ days in Greece in a calendar year
• Have your center of vital interests (family, business) in Greece

Tax residents pay tax on worldwide income. Non-residents pay only on Greek-source income.

Standard Income Tax Rates

Special Tax Regimes

1. 50% Income Tax Discount (Employees/Entrepreneurs)

For new tax residents who:

• Were not Greek tax residents for 5 of prior 6 years
• Transfer from a country with tax cooperation agreement
• Commit to staying 2+ years
• Are employed or run business in Greece

Benefit: 50% discount on employment/business income for 7 years

Example: Top rate effectively becomes 22% instead of 44%

2. 7% Flat Tax (Retirees)

For pension recipients who:

• Were not Greek tax residents for 5 of prior 6 years
• Come from a country with double taxation agreement
• Transfer tax residence to Greece

Benefit: 7% flat tax on ALL foreign income (pensions, dividends, interest, rental, capital gains) for 15 years

3. €100,000 Flat Tax (High Net Worth)

For wealthy individuals who:

• Were not Greek tax residents for 7 of prior 8 years
• Invest €500,000+ in Greece within 3 years

Benefit: €100,000 annual flat tax on all foreign income (regardless of amount) for 15 years. Add €20,000 per family member.

Other Taxes

Filing Requirements

Tax year: Calendar year (January-December)

Filing deadline: June 30 following tax year

Payment: Typically in 3 installments (July, September, November)

Who must file:

• All Greek tax residents with income
• Non-residents with Greek-source income
• Property owners (for ENFIA)

For Digital Nomads and Remote Workers

If you hold a Digital Nomad Visa and stay 183+ days:

• You may become tax resident
• The 50% income tax discount could apply
• Plan carefully to maximize benefits

If you stay less than 183 days:

• Likely not tax resident
• Only Greek-source income taxable

Social Security

Employed workers and self-employed must contribute to EFKA:

• Employee contribution: ~14% of salary
• Employer contribution: ~24% of salary
• Self-employed: Varies by income class

Getting Help

Greek tax is complex. Consider hiring:

• Tax accountant (logistis) - Essential for businesses
• Tax advisor for special regime applications
• Cost: €200-500/year for basic filing, more for complex situations