Relocation to Athens
Expert relocation services from residency permits to school selection — with full Greek administrative know-how.
Relocate to Athens
Moving to Athens is an exciting journey, and we are here to make it seamless. From your first AFM (ΑΦΜ, Greek tax number) appointment at the local AADE office, to registering your children in school, our relocation specialists coordinate every Greek administrative step so you can focus on building your new life in Greece.
Why Athens?
Athens offers European urban living, Mediterranean climate, 3,000+ years of history, and modern amenities — at a fraction of the cost of other European capitals. The city combines vibrant neighborhoods (Kolonaki, Pangrati, Koukaki), world-class dining (Michelin-starred restaurants, rooftop bars), and direct access to 200+ inhabited islands. Direct flights connect Athens to all major European capitals in <3 hours.
Quality of Life
- Climate: 300+ days of sunshine per year, mild winters (avg 10°C in January), hot summers (avg 33°C in July)
- Cost of living: ~30% lower than Paris or London; ~40% lower than Geneva
- Healthcare: Excellent public system (EOPYY, reformed under Law 4368/2016) + private sector with international-standard hospitals (Hygeia, Mitera, Euroclinic)
- Culture: 200+ museums, Acropolis, 2,500+ archaeological sites in Attica alone
- Geography: City + islands + mountains + sea — all within 1 hour
- Connectivity: Athens International Airport (Eleftherios Venizelos), Piraeus port (largest passenger port in Europe), modern metro and tram
Our Relocation Services
1. Pre-Arrival Planning
- Property search and acquisition
- School selection and registration (ACS, St. Lawrence, ISAthens, German School, French School, Japanese School)
- Healthcare overview and insurance options
- Cost of living analysis by neighborhood
- Neighborhood orientation tour (in-person or virtual)
2. Legal & Administrative (Greece-specific)
- AFM (ΑΦΜ) registration via AADE — required for non-EU citizens before any property or business transaction
- Residency permit via the Ministry of Migration
- Bank account opening (Alpha, Piraeus, Ethniki, Eurobank)
- EFKA (e-EFKA since 2020, formerly IKA) social security registration — required for employees, employers, and self-employed
- Greek driver’s license conversion (valid EU licenses exchange directly; non-EU require exam)
- AMKA (Social Security Number) registration
3. Settling In
- Utilities setup (DEH/ΔΕΗ electricity, EYDAP/ΕΥΔΑΠ water, Cosmote/Vodafone/Wind/Nova mobile)
- Local authority (Δήμος) registration — for residents permits, voting roll, family benefits
- Healthcare provider selection (EOPYY registration)
- Vehicle importation and registration (if applicable)
- Pet import documentation (EU pet passport)
- Expat community introductions
Best Neighborhoods for Expats
Kolonaki — Upscale central, embassies, museums, high-end boutiques on Voukourestiou and Kolonaki squares. Embassy district. Best for: diplomats, executives, established expats.
Pangrati — Central, family-friendly, local feel, more affordable. Vibrant café scene. Best for: families, young professionals.
Koukaki — Trendy near Acropolis, popular with young expats and digital nomads. Walking distance to Filopappou hill and Acropolis Museum. Best for: singles, couples, creatives.
Glyfada — Coastal suburb, popular with families. Marina, seafront promenade, international schools nearby. Best for: families wanting sea access.
Kifisia — Upscale northern suburb, excellent schools (ACS, St. Lawrence, German School of Athens). Pine-tree residential. Best for: families prioritizing top international schools.
Speak with an advisor
Tell us about your project. We prepare a tailored proposal within 48 hours.
Ready to Relocate to Athens?
We guide you every step of the way — from AFM to school enrollment.