Citizen Services
Purchasing Property in Greece
The Embassy advises Americans to consult a lawyer for current legal information pertaining to the location of property, ownership titles, taxes, etc. Note that non-residents of Greece who acquire property or have income in Greece must obtain a Tax Serial Number, according to Greek regulation.
Purchases in "Border Areas"
The purchase of property or other property transactions by foreigners in certain parts of Greece known legally as "Border Areas" (including many islands and other areas further from the border) is prohibited by a series of laws and their subsequent amendments. Persons or legal entities of Greek nationality and of Greek origin including Cypriots as well as persons or legal entities having the nationality of one of the countries-members of the EU, may apply for a waiver of the prohibition stating the purpose for which they plan to use the real estate. The application is submitted to the Ministry of National Defense, tel. 210 6572178, Fax 210-6426432, at: Stratopedo Papagou, STG 1020 Holargos.
Tax on Transfer of Property
A transfer tax is assessed on the value of the property in accordance with the property value tables established by the Ministry of Finance. In areas where such tables have not yet been established, the local tax authorities appraise the property value. The method of assessment may differ depending on the type of transfer, i.e., purchase, donation, inheritance, etc Proceeds of the sale of property may be exported. Property owners due to inheritance or through donation effective upon the donor’s death, also have the right to export proceeds of the liquidation of the property.