Taxes for Foreigners: How to Save Money and Stay Compliant in Greece

Discover everything you need to know about taxes in Greece as a foreign resident. Learn how digital nomads, retirees, and new residents can benefit from favorable tax regimes, avoid double taxation, and file taxes with confidence.

Introduction

If you’re planning to relocate to Greece—whether through the Golden Visa, Digital Nomad Visa, or as a retiree—understanding your tax obligations is just as important as securing your residency.

The good news? Greece has become one of the most tax-friendly countries in the EU for new residents, offering a range of incentives for remote workers, pensioners, and high-net-worth individuals. This guide breaks down the key tax benefits, compliance essentials, and how to legally minimize your tax burden in 2025.

Do You Have to Pay Taxes in Greece as a Foreigner?

If you reside in Greece for more than 183 days in a calendar year, you are considered a Greek tax resident—even if your income originates abroad.

As a Greek tax resident, you are subject to taxation on your global income. However, Greece has signed double taxation treaties with over 50 countries (including the U.S., Canada, UK, Australia), allowing you to avoid being taxed twice on the same income.

Special Tax Regimes for Foreign Residents

1. 50% Income Tax Exemption for New Residents

If you move to Greece and start working (remotely or locally), you may qualify for a 50% income tax exemption for up to 7 years.

Eligibility Criteria:

Must not have been a Greek tax resident in the previous 5 of 6 years
Must relocate for employment or self-employment
Must work for a Greek company or operate a Greek-based freelance business
Applies to both Greek and foreign-sourced income

This makes Greece a compelling destination for remote workers and digital nomads.

2. 7% Flat Tax for Foreign Pensioners

If you receive a pension from abroad and relocate to Greece, you can apply to pay a flat 7% tax on all foreign income for up to 10 years.

Key Requirements:

Transfer your tax residency to Greece
Receive a pension from a country with a bilateral tax agreement
File an application with the Greek tax authority by March 31 of the applicable tax year

This is one of the lowest pension tax rates in Europe.

3. Non-Dom Regime (High-Net-Worth Individuals)

For investors and individuals with significant foreign assets, Greece offers a favorable non-dom tax regime.

Annual flat tax of €100,000 on foreign income
Can be extended to family members for an additional €20,000 per person
No reporting requirements on foreign assets

To qualify, you must invest at least €500,000 in Greece within 3 years of applying.

Other Tax Considerations

Capital Gains & Rental Income

If you own property in Greece:

Rental income is taxable (progressive scale + solidarity tax)
Capital gains from property sales are taxed at 15%, but exemptions may apply

Real Estate Taxes

Annual ENFIA tax based on property value and location
Property transfer tax: 3.09%
VAT may apply for new builds (currently suspended through 2025)

Filing Taxes in Greece

The Greek tax year is January 1 to December 31
Personal tax returns are usually filed between April and June
Online filing is done through the A.A.D.E. portal (also available in English)
Hiring a bilingual accountant is highly recommended for expats

How to Avoid Double Taxation

Greece has double taxation agreements (DTAs) with countries such as the United States, Canada, UK, Australia, and most of the EU. These agreements ensure that you won’t pay tax twice on the same income.

To benefit, you may need:

Tax residency certificate from your home country
Greek tax ID (AFM)
Proper reporting of foreign income and assets

How Relocate.world Can Help

Navigating Greek taxes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Relocate.world, we connect you with trusted, bilingual tax professionals who specialize in cross-border compliance and international clients.

We help with: