Opening a Bank Account in Greece

Opening a bank account in Greece is a relatively simple process, as long as you know the required documents and the bank’s requirements. Many residents from abroad — whether Greeks from the diaspora or foreigners — wish to engage in economic activity in the country, which often necessitates having a bank account.

Types of Bank Accounts

Before proceeding with the steps to open an account, it is important to know the main types of accounts offered by Greek banks:

Current Account: Suitable for business use and frequent transactions.
Savings Account: Ideal for everyday transactions and saving money.
Fixed-Term Deposit Account: Offers higher interest for funds that remain “locked” for a specific period.
Joint Account: Can be used by two or more individuals (e.g., couples, family members).

Depending on your personal or professional needs, you can choose the type of account that suits you best.

Required Documents

To open a bank account in Greece, you will need to provide the following documents:

• Passport (or identity card for EU citizens)
• Residence permit (where required)
• Tax Identification Number (AFM)
• Proof of address (in Greece or abroad)
• Proof of professional activity or income (employer certificate, tax declaration)
• Mobile phone number (preferably Greek)

It is also important to know that all foreign-language documents must be translated and legally certified by a Greek lawyer or an authorized translator.

Opening Process

The process is simple but requires physical presence at the bank branch, especially for residents abroad. The basic steps include:

Scheduling an appointment with the bank.
Submitting the required documents.
Signing the account opening agreement.
Activating e-banking services.
Depositing an initial amount, which may vary depending on the bank’s policy.

Opening a bank account in Greece is a straightforward process as long as you are well-prepared. Our team is available to guide you with consistency and reliability at every stage of the process.