Getting a bank account in Greece isn’t the most thrilling part of moving here, but it’s one of the first things you need to do to really settle here. Having a Greek bank account makes things a lot simpler, whether you’re moving for work, want to buy a house, or simply want to manage your everyday expenditures in Greece. At first, the process may appear difficult—this is Greece, after all—but with good preparation, it is extremely possible.
Why you should have a bank account in Greece
Not only is a Greek bank account useful for foreigners, but it is also frequently necessary. Employers typically put pay checks directly into local accounts. Landlords may demand rent payments to be made via bank transfers. If you want to buy property, you’ll need one to do business. If you get money from another country, it also helps you save on international transfer fees. Also, most Greek banks are connected to the IBAN system, which makes it easy to send and receive money inside the EU.
The papers you’ll need
Documentation is important in Greece, just as it is for other things. Before you go to the bank, make sure you have all the documentation they need. The requirements may be different for each bank, but in general, you’ll need:
- A valid passport or national ID for EU nationals.
- Greek tax ID number (AFM).
- A utility bill, rental agreement, or property title is commonly proof of residence.
- Proof of income or labour like a contract, recent pay stubs, or a pension statement.
- A visa or residency permit, if you need one.
Some banks could also demand a reference letter from your job or even your home bank. It’s not always necessary, but it’s a good idea to check ahead of time to avoid having to make several trips.
Picking the right bank
Greece has a few international banks and a lot of big national banks. The main players are:
- National Bank of Greece
- Alpha Bank
- Piraeus Bank
- Eurobank
They all provide the services you might anticipate, such as checking and savings accounts, debit and credit cards, and online banking. If you’re an expat, think about factors like if the staff speaks English, whether the mobile apps are easy to use, and whether customer support is available. Some expats say that Piraeus Bank and Eurobank are more helpful, however this depends on the branch.
What to expect during the process
Get ready to be patient. Greek banks are very careful, thus it could take longer than you think to create an account than in other EU countries. The bank will go over your paperwork once you send them in, and you may have to wait a few days before your account is set up.
You will usually get a debit card that is linked to your account. If you meet the requirements, you may also apply for a credit card. Many people use online banking, but the quality of mobile apps differs from bank to bank. Some are great, while others appear a touch old-fashioned.
Costs and daily banking
Greek banks do charge fees, so it’s crucial to know what they are from the start. Some such charges are:
- Low monthly charges for maintaining an account.
- Fees for taking money out of ATMs that aren’t part of your bank’s network.
- International transfer fees which may be reduced by using SEPA transactions inside the EU.
People in Greece still use cash a lot, but digital payments and cards are becoming increasingly prevalent, especially in cities. But in rural areas, cash is still king, so always keep plenty on hand.
Tips for a smooth experience
They include:
- Get there early because Greek banks are quite busy and have long lines.
- Bring a lot of copies of your papers, just in case they need more.
- Don’t only trust what you find online, you can call the branch beforehand
- Get to know some basic Greek financial terms.
Conclusion
If you want to stay in Greece for more than a few weeks, you will need to open a bank account. It may not be the easiest thing to do, but it is important. Once you’re done, you’ll find that everything is much easier, from paying rent and utilities to being paid and avoiding expensive transfer fees. Greece can go at its own pace, which is one of the things that makes it so appealing. If you take it one step at a time and keep your papers in order, you’ll soon be able to tap your card at your preferred taverna like a local.
You can also view these posts:
Greece through the eyes of investors
Traveling to Greece: Visa requirements
Getting Greece passport