Tax number AFM – The first official step
The Greek tax number AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) is the basis for almost all administrative procedures in Greece. Without AFM you cannot open a bank account, sign a rental agreement or apply for government benefits.
What is the AFM?
The AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) is the Greek tax number - comparable to the AHV number in Switzerland or the German tax identification number. It is a nine-digit number assigned to every person living or doing business in Greece.
The AFM is the key to almost all administrative procedures and everyday transactions in Greece:
- Opening a bank account
- Conclusion of rental and purchase contracts
- Registration of vehicles
- Applying for social benefits
- Submission of the tax return
- Registration with utility companies (electricity, water, internet)
How do I apply for the AFM?
The AFM can be applied for in two ways:
- Apply online yourself via the financial platform AADE.gr: AADE online platform. The platform is available in Greek and English.
- Apply through a tax advisor at your future place of residence. This is particularly recommended if you do not yet speak Greek or want to make sure that all data is entered correctly.
Important information when entering data
Regardless of whether you apply for the AFM yourself or have it applied for by a tax advisor, the following applies: The data entered must be absolutely correct.
- Write all data in capital letters, absolutely identical to those in your passport.
- Use Latin letters (not Greek) where possible.
- Check all entries carefully for typing errors - subsequent corrections are time-consuming.
Special features for couples
Couples must apply for the tax number separately when they take up permanent residence (de-registration in Switzerland). Each person receives their own AFM. It is not possible to apply for AFM together as a couple.
Gov.gr Wallet App
Download the Gov.gr Wallet app on your smartphone. This app allows you to digitally store and display official Greek documents. Attention: The app only works with a Greek mobile phone number. Therefore, get a Greek SIM card early on (e.g. as a prepaid card).
Access codes (username and password)
When you apply for the AFM, you will also receive access codes (username and password) for the AADE platform. These access codes are important for later filing of tax returns and other tax matters. Keep these safe.
Checklist: Tax number AFM
- ☐ Get Greek mobile number (for Gov.gr Wallet)
- ☐ Have your passport ready
- ☐ Apply for AFM online or through a tax advisor
- ☐ Enter all data in capital letters, identical to your passport
- ☐ Check entries for typos
- ☐ For couples: Submit separate applications
- ☐ Keep access codes (username/password) safe
- ☐ Install Gov.gr Wallet App
Official source: AADE – Independent Public Revenue Authority