{"id":20108,"date":"2026-08-27T18:13:13","date_gmt":"2026-08-27T15:13:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/goldenvisasolutions.com\/how-to-open-a-greek-bank-account-remotely"},"modified":"2026-09-18T01:33:42","modified_gmt":"2026-09-17T22:33:42","slug":"how-to-open-a-greek-bank-account-remotely","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/goldenvisasolutions.com\/en\/how-to-open-a-greek-bank-account-remotely","title":{"rendered":"How to Open a Greek Bank Account Remotely?"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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Having an account in Greek banks is a great advantage for Turkish citizens who want to make real estate investments in Greece, benefit from Golden Visa opportunities, or hold financial assets in Europe. Today, it is possible to open a bank account in Greece from Turkey by issuing a power of attorney, without physically traveling. <\/span><\/p>

If you are preparing a Plan B by acquiring a property on the Aegean coast or initiating the Golden Visa process, the most important reality you will sooner or later face is the Greek banking system. Banking in Greece has a bureaucratic structure that remains loyal to traditional rules, is cautious, and requires meticulous document tracking. However, with the right steps and professional support, you can complete this process entirely remotely, without ever stepping foot in Greece. <\/span><\/p>

First and Mandatory Step: Obtaining a Greek Tax Number (AFM)<\/b><\/h2>


The absolute key to carrying out any financial or official transaction in Greece is the 9-digit Greek tax number, known locally as AFM (Arithmo Forologiko Mitro \/ \u0391\u03c1\u03b9\u03b8\u03bc\u03cc\u03c2 \u03a6\u03bf\u03c1\u03bf\u03bb\u03bf\u03b3\u03b9\u03ba\u03bf\u03cd \u039c\u03b7\u03c4\u03c1\u03ce\u03bf\u03c5).<\/span><\/p>

  • Why is it Mandatory? It is mandatory to present an AFM in every legal process, from renting a house to internet subscription, from title deed procedures to opening a bank account. No Greek bank will process your application without an AFM.

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  • Remote AFM Acquisition: To obtain an AFM without going to Greece, you need to grant a power of attorney to a lawyer in Turkey or a tax representative in Greece. Alternatively, applications can be made via video call directly through the myAADE portal; however, due to bureaucratic processes, the vast majority of investors prefer the power of attorney route.

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  • Essential Basic Documents: Apostilled passport copy, up-to-date residence certificate, and civil registry record (must be obtained via e-Government and translated). AFM applications are generally finalized within 1 to 5 business days.<\/li><\/ul>

    Power of Attorney (PoA) Process and Critical Elements<\/b><\/h2>


    The key to being able to transact remotely is a properly prepared Power of Attorney (PoA). In the Greek legal system, real estate and official transactions are not accepted with digital signatures; wet signatures and notarization are required. <\/span><\/p>

    Preparation Methods: The power of attorney can be prepared at the Greek Consulate in your country of residence or at a local notary in Turkey by adding an Apostille annotation. The apostilled document must be officially translated into Greek by sworn translators.<\/p>

    Critical Warning: Banks may reject template powers of attorney written with missing or general statements. It is mandatory that the text of the power of attorney includes the following powers with specific and detailed expressions:
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    • Authority to apply for AFM and receive Taxisnet access codes,<\/span><\/li>
    • Authority to open a bank account, create specimen signatures, and sign relevant contracts,
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    • Authority to request internet banking passwords and manage the account.
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      Greece\u2019s \u201cBig Four\u201d Banks and Comparison<\/h2>\n\n

      \n The backbone of the Greek banking sector is formed by the \"Big Four\", all operating under European Union guarantee. The approach of the banks to foreign customers and their features are as follows:\n<\/p>\n\n