Question 1

What do I need to open a business account in Greece?

Accepted Answer

A company registered in Greece, a Greek tax number for the company and for every director and beneficial owner, the statutes, a company register extract and proof of address. Foreign documents normally need an apostille and an official Greek translation. Preparing the pack takes longer than the bank meeting itself.

Question 2

Do I need a Greek resident director?

Accepted Answer

No, a foreigner can run the company. But every signatory and beneficial owner needs a Greek tax number, and a non-resident needs a Greek tax representative to obtain one. The bank separately looks at whether the business genuinely operates in Greece.

Question 3

How long does a Greek corporate account take?

Accepted Answer

Weeks rather than days - Greek banks are paperwork heavy and like hard copies. Most delays come from translations, apostilles and follow-up questions about ownership. No bank will commit to a date up front.

Question 4

Can I use an EU EMI instead of a Greek bank?

Accepted Answer

For everyday euro payments, often yes - an IBAN from another EU country has to be accepted under single payment area rules. For some local procedures, dealing with public bodies and banking cash takings, a Greek account is simply more practical. Many businesses keep both.

Business accounts: Greece

Fees

See also

FAQ

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