What Is AMKA? Greece's Social Security Number Explained

AMKA is the Greek Social Security Number, consisting of 11 digits. The first six digits correspond to your date of birth. You need it for employment, healthcare, pensions and social benefits, but it's only available to residents working in Greece or otherwise in the social security system. FIP, Golden Visa and Digital Nomad Visa holders don't qualify.

If you're planning on relocating or working as an expat in Greece, obtaining an AMKA number is essential for paying your insurance contributions.

Do I Need an AMKA in Greece?

Yes! The AMKA number is required for booking appointments with your local hospital or GP in Greece. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the AMKA was mandatory for scheduling vaccinations. It’s equally important to secure an AMKA if you're registering as a freelancer in Greece, as it is necessary for paying your social security contributions to EFKA (Greece's main insurance fund). Read more about EFKA and how contributions work. Your employer will also need your AMKA number to provide work insurance coverage, and it is crucial if you plan to apply for a pension in Greece. If you are taking a job with a Greek employer, you will also come across the AMA number, a separate national insurance registration issued through EFKA once you have a job offer.

Who Is Eligible for an AMKA?

An AMKA is only issued to residents who work in Greece or are otherwise inside the national social security system. Holders of the FIP visa, the Golden Visa and the Digital Nomad Visa do not qualify, and rely on private health insurance instead. Our guide to AMKA eligibility works through each case in detail.

To qualify for an AMKA, you must have an AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number) and provide proof of a Greek address, such as a lease agreement, hospitality declaration, or E9 document (for property owners).

• For non-EU citizens or third-country nationals, you must first obtain a temporary residence permit before applying for an AMKA.
• EU citizens, however, do not need a residence permit or additional documentation when applying for an AMKA.

What Documents Do I Need for an AMKA?

You will need to bring the following documents to the office:

• Identity card or passport (for European citizens)
• Birth certificate (for non-Greek minors born in Greece) – must be translated into Greek
• Residence permit (for non-European nationals)
• AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number). If you need an AFM urgently, please refer to this article, How Do I Get a TIN (AFM) in Greece?‍ or contact our team by filling out a request form.
• Proof of your address in Greece

How Do I Apply for an AMKA?

Applying for an AMKA is free of charge and can be done at any KEP (Citizens Service Center), KEM (Center for Migrant Integration), or EFKA/IKA (national health insurance body) office. For the full step by step, including what happens after you submit, read our guide on how to get an AMKA in Greece.

No appointment is needed to visit a KEP office, but keep in mind that most offices are open from 8:00 AM to 2:00 PM. After submitting your AMKA application, you will receive a confirmation letter sent to your Greek address.

Find Your Nearest KEP Office

You can locate your nearest KEP Citizens Service Center on Google Maps or by clicking here. For more detailed information about AMKA, visit the official EFKA website here.

How Long Does It Take to Get an AMKA?

Applying yourself at a KEP office is free of charge, and a confirmation letter follows to your Greek address once the application is submitted. If you would rather not handle the office visit in person, our AMKA registration service costs €285 and usually takes 3 to 4 business days from the point your documents are ready.

Experiencing difficulties with your AMKA application or facing issues at the KEP office? Our team can submit it on your behalf.

Get a Straight Answer on Your Own Case

Every relocation turns on the details, and the wrong permit or tax status can cost you months. Before you file anything, book a free 15-minute discovery call and we will go through your situation and tell you plainly what you need, what it costs and how long it takes.

Written by Chloe Mason, founder of My Greek Expat Journey. Chloe has lived in seven countries and has personally guided 300+ people through Greek residency, tax, property and bureaucracy. More articles by Chloe.