Greece (GR)
Greece is a southeastern European republic and EU member state, birthplace of democracy, philosophy, and the Olympic Games, celebrated for its 6,000 sun-drenched islands, ancient ruins from the Acropolis to Delphi, vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, and a warm culture that draws expats, retirees, digital nomads, and Golden Visa investors from across the world.
Leaving Greece
How to properly exit — protecting your finances, rights and records.
📅 General Timeline
Recommended departure timeline: 3 months before: Give rental notice; notify employer; start pension/benefit portability process. 2 months before: Cancel utilities and services with required notice periods. 1 month before: File pending tax returns; obtain tax clearance; notify bank of new address. 1–2 weeks before: Final meter readings; property handover; collect deposit. Day of departure: Confirm all direct debits cancelled; ensure forwarding address set up. After departure: File final Greek tax return for the partial year (due by June 30 of following year); monitor for ENFIA (annual property tax) if you retain property; follow up on EFKA pension contribution certificate.
Deregistration
EU citizens are not legally required to formally deregister from Greece, but it is strongly advisable to update your address with the tax authority (AADE/DOY) and AMKA/EFKA registry. Non-EU citizens with a residence permit should notify the Migration Department (Υπηρεσία Αλλοδαπών) of their departure. If you have registered as a tax resident in Greece, notify your local DOY and change tax residence before departure. File a final-year tax return covering the period of your Greek residence.
Tax clearance
Obtain a tax clearance certificate (Αποδεικτικό Ενημερότητας) from AADE before selling property or transferring significant assets. Any outstanding Greek income tax, VAT (for self-employed), property tax (ENFIA), or social contributions must be settled before departure. The myAADE portal (myaade.gr) allows you to view and pay all outstanding obligations online. If you have a Greek bank account with tax payments due, ensure SEPA direct debit mandates are active until all taxes are paid.
Pension portability
Pension contributions paid to EFKA (e-EFKA) are portable within the EU under EU social security coordination regulations. If you move to another EU country, your Greek contribution years count toward the qualifying period for pension in your new country of residence (and vice versa). For non-EU destination countries: Greece has bilateral social security agreements with some countries (e.g., USA, Canada, Australia). Non-EU nationals who are not covered by an agreement may be able to request a refund of contributions (Επιστροφή Εισφορών) after leaving — contact EFKA for specific guidance. Contact e-EFKA (efka.gov.gr) to obtain a certificate of your contribution history (E001/E104 forms for EU transfers).
Health insurance
Your EOPYY public healthcare coverage ceases upon deregistration as a Greek resident and tax resident. If you are employed, coverage ends when employment terminates and you are no longer an insured employee. Obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if moving to another EU country — apply via EFKA before departure. For non-EU destinations, arrange private health insurance to bridge the gap between departure and enrolment in your new country's system.
Bank account
Greek banks do not require your physical presence to maintain an account, but non-EU residents without an active economic connection to Greece may have accounts closed or restricted. Notify your bank of your new address abroad. If closing your account: ensure all direct debits (ENFIA, utility final bills, any outstanding payments) are settled first. Request a final account statement. International transfers from Greek accounts are straightforward within SEPA; for non-SEPA destinations, use SWIFT transfer. Keep the account open for at least 3–6 months after departure to receive any pending tax refunds, security deposits, or final salary payments.
Utilities
Cancel electricity (DEI or alternative provider), water (DEYA), and gas contracts by visiting the provider office or calling their customer service line. Provide your AFM and meter readings on the day of departure. Arrange for final meter readings and bills to be sent to a forwarding address or email. Cancel internet/telephone contracts — these typically require 30 days' notice and may have early termination fees if within the contract period. Cancel direct debit authorisations at your bank after all final bills are settled.
Rental contract
Rental contracts in Greece require written notice according to the contract terms (typically 1–3 months, statutory minimum 1 month). Fixed-term contracts (usually 3 years minimum for residential) may have early termination clauses. Conduct a formal property handover (Πρωτόκολλο Παράδοσης) with the landlord, document the property condition with photos, and request the return of your deposit (normally within 30 days after the keys are handed back and any deductions agreed). Disputes over deposit deductions can be taken to the local Peace Court (Ειρηνοδικείο).
Leaving the Country
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