AFM for International Hires — Essential Guide

For international hires relocating to Greece, obtaining an AFM (Tax Identification Number) is a fundamental step. The AFM is crucial because it allows individuals to engage in any financial activities in Greece, from opening a bank account to signing a lease or getting a phone contract. Without it, most everyday transactions become impossible. This guide is designed for expats, international employees, and employers seeking to understand the complexities of the AFM process, including bulk registrations and the integration with Taxisnet, Greece's online tax platform.

The Greek tax system mandates that every individual engaging in economic activities must possess an AFM. This requirement is stipulated by the Greek tax authorities and is integral to maintaining legal residency and work compliance. Recent regulatory changes have streamlined the process somewhat, but it remains complex for those unfamiliar with Greek bureaucracy. As of 2023, the Greek government has introduced digital services to facilitate Taxisnet registration for foreigners, making it easier to manage tax obligations online.

To apply for an AFM, international hires must present themselves at the local tax office (DOY) with the necessary documents. These include a valid passport, proof of residence in Greece, and possibly a lease agreement. For those applying from abroad, a power of attorney may be required to authorize a representative to act on their behalf. Once registered, individuals receive their AFM, which must be used for all tax-related activities.

Employers hiring multiple international employees can opt for bulk AFM registration. This process involves submitting a comprehensive list of employees, alongside their documentation, to the tax office. While this can save time, it demands meticulous preparation of documents to ensure compliance and avoid rejection.

Another frequent issue is misunderstanding the necessity of Taxisnet registration. Many expats assume that obtaining an AFM is sufficient, but without Taxisnet access, they cannot fulfill their tax obligations.

Expect the AFM registration to take between one to two weeks, depending on the local tax office's efficiency and your preparedness.

Ellytic offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to assist expats and international hires in Greece. With the Identity Starter and Full Service packages, Ellytic can handle everything from AFM registration to setting up a Greek mobile number. Their team ensures all documents are correctly translated and submitted, eliminating the risk of rejection due to clerical errors. This approach not only saves time but also provides peace of mind.

You need a valid passport, proof of residence, and possibly a lease agreement. If applying from abroad, a power of attorney will be necessary.

To deregister, submit a formal request to your local tax office, ensuring all tax liabilities are settled. Ellytic can provide guidance on this process to ensure compliance.

Register for Taxisnet to manage your tax obligations online. This is crucial for filing tax returns and accessing other tax-related services.

For more information on how Ellytic can assist you, visit their website and explore their Identity services to simplify your transition to Greece.