Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in Greece, but the process and requirements depend on your residency status and which bank you choose
Most Greek banks will open an account for a non-resident foreigner, though some require you to be physically present in Greece to do it. If you are a resident — meaning you have a Greek tax identification number (AFM) or proof of residence — the process is simpler and faster. Non-residents face more paperwork and longer timelines, and a few banks refuse non-resident accounts altogether.
The key difference is whether you have an AFM. If you do, you are treated almost like a Greek citizen for banking purposes. If you do not, you will need a passport, proof of address in your home country, and often proof of income or funds. Some banks also require you to visit a branch in person; others allow you to start the process online but still need you to sign documents in person at a Greek branch.
Timing varies widely. A resident opening an account can be done in one visit and take a few days to activate. A non-resident account can take two to four weeks, partly because the bank must verify your identity through channels that take longer when you are outside Greece.
Key Takeaways
- Residents with a Greek tax ID (AFM) can open an account at most banks with a passport and proof of address, often in a single visit.
- Non-residents need a passport, proof of home address, and sometimes proof of income; some banks require an in-person visit to a Greek branch.
- The major banks — Alpha Bank, Eurobank, National Bank of Greece, and Piraeus Bank — all accept non-resident accounts, though terms vary by branch.
- You will need a Greek phone number and email address to complete the account setup and receive banking credentials.
- Non-resident accounts typically take two to four weeks to activate, while resident accounts can be ready within days.
What documents you need as a non-resident
A valid passport is non-negotiable. Some banks also ask for a second form of ID, such as a driver's license, though a passport alone usually suffices. You will need proof of your address in your home country — a utility bill, rental agreement, or official letter from your employer or government agency dated within the last three months.
Many banks ask for proof of income or funds: recent payslips, a letter from your employer, tax returns, or a bank statement from your home country showing regular deposits. This is not about meeting a minimum balance; it is about showing the bank you have a legitimate source of money and are not opening the account for money laundering. If you are retired or self-employed, a tax return or pension statement works.
You will also need a Greek phone number and email address. If you do not have a Greek phone number yet, you can buy a prepaid SIM card at any kiosk or supermarket for a few euros. The bank needs these to send you login credentials and to contact you about your account.
Whether you need to visit a branch in person
Most of the large banks — Alpha Bank, Eurobank, National Bank of Greece, and Piraeus Bank — require at least one in-person visit to a Greek branch to sign documents and verify your identity. Some branches will let you start the application online and then come in to finish it; others require you to walk in and begin the process there.
A few smaller banks or online-only services may not require a branch visit, but they are less common and often have higher fees or fewer services. If you are in Greece temporarily, plan your bank visit for the same trip. If you are not in Greece, you will need to either visit during a trip or ask a trusted friend or family member to help, though most banks will not let someone else sign on your behalf.
When you visit, bring your original passport, the proof of address, and any income documents. The staff will make copies and may ask questions about the purpose of the account and where your money comes from. Be straightforward: if you are opening it to receive salary, say that; if you are opening it to pay bills or store savings, say that.
How long activation takes and what happens next
After you sign the paperwork, the bank sends your information to the Greek central bank and to anti-money-laundering compliance teams. This verification step is what takes time. For residents, this can happen in a few days. For non-residents, it often takes two to four weeks because the bank is verifying your identity through international channels.
Once approved, the bank will send you your account number, card details, and online banking login credentials by email or SMS. You can usually start using the account for transfers and bill payments immediately, though your debit card may take another week to arrive by post. If you need the card sooner, some branches can issue a temporary card on the spot or order an expedited delivery.
Your account will be in euros and subject to Greek banking regulations. You will have access to online banking, mobile banking apps, and ATMs across Greece and the eurozone. Most accounts come with a debit card; credit cards require a separate application and a credit check.
Costs and ongoing requirements
Monthly account maintenance fees range from free to around 5 euros, depending on the bank and account type. ATM withdrawals within Greece are usually free if you use your bank's network; withdrawals from other banks' ATMs may cost 1 to 2 euros. International transfers out of Greece typically cost 10 to 25 euros, and the receiving bank may charge an additional fee.
Once your account is open, the bank may ask you to update your information periodically — especially if you move, change your phone number, or your employment status changes. Non-residents sometimes face annual or biennial account reviews where the bank asks for updated proof of address or income. This is routine and not a sign of a problem; it is part of international banking compliance.
If you do not use your account for an extended period — typically a year or more — some banks may freeze or close it. Check your account agreement for the bank's policy on dormant accounts.
Which banks accept non-resident accounts
The four largest banks in Greece — Alpha Bank, Eurobank, National Bank of Greece (NBG), and Piraeus Bank — all accept non-resident accounts. They have the most branches and the most straightforward processes, though policies can vary by branch. Smaller regional banks may also accept non-residents, but you will need to call or visit to ask.
Online-only banks operating in Greece, such as Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Revolut, offer accounts without a branch visit, but these are not traditional bank accounts and come with different limits and features. A Wise account, for example, is designed for international transfers and multi-currency holding rather than everyday banking in Greece.
If you plan to stay in Greece long-term, opening an account at one of the major banks gives you more stability and more options. If you are just passing through or need an account for a specific purpose, an online service may be faster and simpler.
Getting a Greek tax ID (AFM) if you plan to stay longer
If you are moving to Greece or staying for more than a few months, getting an AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) makes banking and other transactions much easier. You can apply for an AFM at your local tax office (Δημοτική Διοίκηση) with your passport and proof of address in Greece. The process takes a few days, and you receive a number you can use immediately.
With an AFM, you can open a bank account as a resident, which means faster processing, fewer documents required, and sometimes lower fees. You will also need an AFM if you plan to work, rent an apartment, or register a business in Greece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Greek bank account without visiting Greece in person?
Most major banks require at least one in-person visit to a Greek branch to sign documents and verify your identity. A few online services like Wise or Revolut do not require a branch visit, but these are not traditional bank accounts. If you cannot visit Greece, ask the bank whether a trusted representative can sign on your behalf — most will not allow this.
What if I do not have proof of income?
If you are retired, a pension statement or letter from your pension provider works. If you are self-employed, a tax return or accountant's letter showing your business income is acceptable. If you have savings but no regular income, a bank statement showing your balance may be enough, though the bank may ask follow-up questions about the source of those funds.
Do I need a Greek address to open an account?
No. Non-residents can use their home country address as proof of residence. If you are staying in Greece temporarily, you can use a hotel address or a friend's address, though the bank may ask for additional verification. Once you have a Greek address, you can update it with the bank.
How much money do I need to open an account?
Most Greek banks do not require a minimum opening deposit. You can open an account with zero euros and deposit money later. Some premium or business accounts may have minimum balance requirements, but standard personal accounts do not.
Can I use my account to receive international transfers?
Yes. Your Greek bank account has an IBAN (International Bank Account Number) that you can give to employers, clients, or family members abroad. They can send you money using your IBAN and the bank's SWIFT code. Incoming transfers are usually free or cost a small fee; the sending bank may also charge a fee on their end.