Greece
March 25, 2026
6
minute
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:
Obtaining AFM (Tax Number): This is the “key” to everything. For foreign non-residents, appointing a tax representative in Greece is required.
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.
Entry in GEMI: Your company is entered into the General Commercial Registry. In 2026, this stage is automated.
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:
Parameter | Rate / Value | Comment |
Corporate tax | 22% | Single rate for most companies. |
Dividend tax | 5% | One of the lowest in the European Union. |
Profit tax (R&D) | up to 0% | 3-year incentive for world-class patents. |
Social contributions (EFKA) | ~22% | Paid monthly (employer’s share). |
VAT | 24% | Standard rate (reduced rates of 13% and 6% are available). |
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.
Author Andrey Trofimenko
