How Do I Get a TIN (AFM) in Greece?

The Greek tax identification number, called AFM (short for "Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou"), is one of the first and most crucial documents you need when relocating to Greece. Pronounced "afimi," the AFM is a nine-digit Greek tax ID number that is required for virtually all official transactions including purchasing or leasing property, securing rental contracts, opening a bank account, or even registering for utilities.

Without a Greek TIN, you'll likely face difficulties navigating basic administrative tasks.

Here is your updated guide to obtaining an AFM in Greece as a foreigner, whether you're on a Digital Nomad Visa, Golden Visa, or simply planning to invest or live in Greece.

Getting the Right Paperwork: AFM Greece Requirements

To obtain the Greek tax ID number or AFM, you would be asked to provide this information to present at the tax office or Greek Consulate. These typically include:

• Copy of your passport
• ⁠Father's name and surname
• Mother's name and surname
• ⁠Full home address abroad (outside Greece)
• Temporary address in Greece (if known)
• ⁠Foreign tax ID number
• Mobile phone number
• An authorization form (in Greek) with your signature

🔍 Tip: Ensure all information is consistent across documents to avoid delays.

How to Apply for a Greek Tax ID (AFM)

Option 1: In-Person at a Greek Tax Office (Eforia)

If you're in Greece, you can apply for your AFM free of charge by visiting your nearest tax office. Offices are generally open from 7:30am to 2:30pm. It's advisable to call in advance and schedule an appointment to avoid long waits and ensure service.

Option 2: Through the Greek Consulate

You can also apply through a Greek Consulate abroad. Appointments are typically required, and processing times and requirements may vary depending on your country and local Greek Consular policies.

⚠️ Important: Most applicants are required to appoint a tax representative, especially when applying through a consulate or when belonging to the tax office of foreign residents.

Why You Need a Tax Representative in Greece

When it comes to obtaining an AFM, a tax representative comes in handy for correspondence purposes, especially if you're applying for Greek residency as a Digital Nomad, or as an applicant under the Golden Visa program. Appointing a tax representative is useful as the person in charge can receive notifications electronically rather than through mail, about any important legislation changes regarding permit or visa holders in Greece.

Another reason why you need a tax representative is to open an account on TaxisNet, the official online system of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue, which is needed for all individuals living and working in Greece. With a tax representative, you can obtain your TaxisNet credentials including your own username and password, which you will use to log in and submit a declaration to acknowledge your presence in Greece as an official tax resident.

If any issues arise regarding miscommunications or problems at the Greek Consulate, which are unforeseeable, having a tax representative is beneficial who can act on your behalf and bring actionable solutions.

In summary, here are the reasons why appointing a tax representative is mandatory in most cases for foreign applicants:

• They serve as your legal correspondent with Greek tax authorities.
• Required for registering on TaxisNet, Greece’s official tax platform.
• Can assist with the AFM application process entirely on your behalf.
• Ensure timely updates on any legislative changes affecting tax residents.
• Prevent miscommunication with Greek tax officials.

Your tax representative will also help prepare and translate the necessary authorization form to be submitted at the tax office or consulate.

What is Taxisnet and Why Do You Need It?

Taxisnet is the official online tax platform managed by the Greek tax authority. Once you complete your AFM application and receive your Greek tax number, you are registered in the official Greek bureaucratic system and you will be able access your personal administrative account. This platform is where you manage your tax obligations, submit declarations, and store key documents. For anyone moving to Greece or planning on living in Greece long-term, understanding how Taxisnet connects to your AFM is recommended. You can learn exactly how to get Taxisnet credentials in our step-by-step guide.

Can I Get an AFM Without Being in Greece?

Yes. You do not need to be physically present in Greece to apply for an AFM. This is particularly useful for non-residents looking to purchase property or make financial investments.

⚠️ Important: If your sole purpose is to purchase property or other assets in Greece within a short period of time, you do not need a residency permit to obtain your AFM.

As mentioned previously, if you appoint a tax representative, they can process the TIN application on your behalf by sending them the appropriate documents via email, and send you a Greek authorization form that you need to bring to the Greek consulate (or public notary) in your country or city and have it stamped with your signature.

How Long Does It Take to Get an AFM in Greece?

Once your documents are submitted, the AFM is usually issued within 2–3 business days. However, the entire process, including scheduling appointments and document preparation, can take up to one week.

Getting a Greek Tax ID as a Married Couple

Spouses applying for an AFM must provide a wedding certificate, apostilled, translated into Greek, and notarized. Each partner must apply individually.

How to Update Your Phone Number on Your Taxisnet Account

If you are applying for a Greek TIN and you are stuck because your Taxisnet account will not accept a foreign phone number, this is usually an EMEP registration issue rather than a problem with the number itself.

A foreign phone number such as a US or UK number can be registered on Taxisnet as long as it is linked correctly through EMEP. Once you are in Greece, you will need to visit a KEP office and ask a staff member to complete an EMEP registration. During this process, you will receive a verification code directly on your foreign mobile number, which confirms and validates it within the Greek system. Once this step is completed, your Taxisnet profile is updated to reflect your foreign phone number, allowing you to move forward with your Taxisnet registration and manage your myaade profile without further issues.

Setting up Home Utilities with Your Greek TIN or AFM Number

This previous step is also important when setting up home utilities in Greece. Many electricity, water, gas, and internet providers now require an OTP verification code that is sent to the phone number registered on your Taxisnet account. Because your Taxisnet profile is directly linked to your AFM, an unverified or missing phone number can delay or completely block the activation of utilities in your name. Ensuring your phone number is correctly registered through EMEP makes the process of setting up utilities far smoother and avoids unnecessary back and forth with electricity or gas providers.

Why You Need an AFM for a Greek Driving License

When you start dealing with everyday administration in Greece, you quickly realize that your AFM is tied to almost everything, including your Greek driving license. Whether you are applying for a driver's license for the first time or by renewing a Greek driving license, your AFM is used to verify your identity within the country's national insurance system. To reiterate, your AFM connects your personal records across different government services, especially when accessing platforms like Taxisnet.

Other Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is an AFM (TIN) in Greece?

‍The AFM (Arithmos Forologikou Mitroou) is the Greek Tax Identification Number — a nine-digit number required for virtually all official transactions in Greece, including purchasing or leasing property, securing rental contracts, opening a bank account, and registering for utilities.

What documents do I need to apply for an AFM in Greece?

‍You will need a copy of your passport, your father's and mother's full name and surname, your full home address abroad, your temporary address in Greece (if known), your foreign tax ID number, a mobile phone number, and a signed authorization form in Greek.‍

Can I get an AFM without being physically present in Greece?

‍Yes, you do not need to be physically present in Greece to apply for an AFM. If you appoint a tax representative, they can process the application on your behalf by receiving the appropriate documents via email and sending you a Greek authorization form to have stamped at the Greek consulate or a public notary in your country.

How long does it take to get an AFM in Greece?

‍Once your documents are submitted, the AFM is usually issued within 2–3 business days. However, the entire process, including scheduling appointments and preparing documents, can take up to one week.

Does the AFM expire, and what happens if I lose it?

‍The AFM does not expire, though you must update your personal details if your address or legal status changes. If you lose your AFM number, you can retrieve it by contacting your tax representative or visiting the tax office where it was originally issued with your ID or passport.

Where can I find my AFM?

You can find your AFM by logging into myaade.gov.gr using your Taxisnet username and password. Alternatively, you can also find your AFM number listed on your AFM certificate.

Is VAT the same as AFM in Greece?

Yes, your VAT number is the same as the AFM number in Greece. The VAT and AFM numbers are actually the same number used in different contexts. The AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) is your personal Greek tax identification number. Everyone who has any tax-related activity in Greece, such as individuals and businesses who register to the Independent Authority of Public Revenue, is assigned an AFM. The VAT number is simply your AFM used for VAT purposes, usually with the country prefix “EL” added in front (i.e. EL123456789).

Do I need an AFM to renew a Greek driving license online?

Yes, you need an AFM and Taxisnet credentials to use or access online government services in Greece. If you want to renew Greek driving license online, your AFM allows you to connect your identity to the Greek tax and public administration system.

How do I get an AMA in Greece?

In Greece, an “AMA” number refers to two completely different numbers, depending on the context. The first type of AMA (Arithmos Mitrou Akinitou) is a property registration number that is required if you rent out a property on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. You can obtain an AMA by registering your property online via myAADE for short-term rental use through your Taxisnet account.

The second type of AMA number is the “Arithmos Mitrou Asphalismenou” (Αριθμός Μητρώου Ασφαλισμένου), which is your social security registration number in Greece. This number is issued when you are registered with the Greek social security system (EFKA) and is used to track your insurance contributions and employment history.

For more details, see our full guide on what is an AMA number in Greece.

Contact Us

Need assistance with the AFM process in Greece? Our expert tax representatives can handle everything on your behalf. See our AFM service page for our fees and full scope of work. Book a discovery call or email us at info@mygreekexpatjourney.com for more details.