How to Open a Company in Greece: A Step-by-Step Guide

Greece is actively competing for technological capital. The transition to digital document management and the introduction of special tax deductions for R&D made Hellas an attractive base for IT hubs and startups. However, unlike Cyprus, the role of a local accountant and understanding the progressive contribution scale are critically important here.

Choosing a legal form: IKE vs EPE

For a foreign investor and digital entrepreneur in 2026, the two most relevant forms are:

• IKE (Private Company): The most popular form (a “1-euro company”). Minimum capital starts from €1. Flexible articles of association and fast registration through the online portal.
• EPE (Limited Liability Company): Equivalent to a classic LLC. Requires notarization of the articles of association, which makes the process more expensive and longer.

Registration algorithm via e-YMS

The procedure is carried out primarily in digital format:

1. Obtaining AFM (Tax Number): This is the “key” to everything. For foreign non-residents, appointing a tax representative in Greece is required.
2. Registration in e-YMS: The articles of association and founders’ data are submitted through the electronic One-Stop Shop platform. The system automatically checks the uniqueness of the company name.
3. Entry in GEMI: Your company is entered into the General Commercial Registry. In 2026, this stage is automated.
4. Opening a bank account: Greek banks (Piraeus, Alpha, National Bank of Greece) require personal presence or a power of attorney.

Tax system and financial indicators for 2026

Greece offers interesting incentives, but the baseline burden remains noticeable:

Substance and digital presence in Greece

Greek authorities closely monitor that a company is not a shell entity.

Important: To confirm tax residency and protection against double taxation (DTA), a company must have its “center of vital interests” in Greece. This implies having a local director and leasing an office.In 2026, the MyDATA system was introduced, where all invoices must be registered in real time — “off-the-books” accounting is technically impossible here.

Benefits for “Digital Nomads” and new residents

If you register a company and move to Greece yourself:

• 50% personal income tax discount: Applies for the first 7 years for those who create a new job or relocate a business, provided they were not previously tax residents of Greece.
• Startup Visa: A simplified path for founders whose business is included in the Elevate Greece registry.