Move to Greece: The Essentials
The critical first steps when relocating to Greece. Do these in order - each step enables the next.
Prerequisites
Valid passport, proof of income/employment for residence permit
Recommended Order
These steps often depend on each other. Follow this order for the smoothest experience.
Valid Passport / ID
Your passport is the foundation for everything else
Greek SIM Card
Get connected first — needed for bank OTPs and 2FA
AFM (Tax Number)
Required for renting, banking, working, buying anything major
Bank Account
Greek IBAN for salary, rent, and daily transactions
AMKA (Social Security)
Health insurance and public healthcare access
Residence Permit
For stays >90 days (non-EU) or registration (EU)
Each step depends on the previous ones. Get your SIM and AFM first — you need them for almost everything else.
Your Checklist
Watch Out For
Get SIM and AFM first - you need them for almost everything else. Bank account requires AFM + Greek phone number for OTPs.