Why You Need a Greek Bank Account

A Greek bank account is essential for: - Receiving your pension in Greece - Paying utilities and rent - Daily expenses and ATM withdrawals - Tax compliance (required for the 7% regime) - Property purchases - Building credit history in Greece

Best Greek Banks for Foreigners

1. Piraeus Bank

Best for: English-speaking service, online banking - Largest bank in Greece by assets - Excellent English-language online banking - Dedicated international client department - Wide branch network

2. National Bank of Greece

Best for: History, stability, pension services - Greece's oldest bank (founded 1841) - Strong pension payment services - Good English support - Extensive ATM network

3. Eurobank

Best for: Digital experience, competitive fees - Modern digital platform - Competitive account fees - Good mobile app - English customer service

4. Alpha Bank

Best for: Investment services, wealth management - Strong investment platform - Private banking for high-net-worth clients - Good English support - Premium account options

Required Documents

Standard Requirements

- Valid passport - Greek AFM (Tax ID) - Proof of address (Greek or foreign) - Proof of income (pension statement, employment contract) - Greek mobile phone number

Additional Requirements (varies by bank)

- Birth certificate - Bank reference letter from home country - Source of funds declaration - Tax residency certificate

The Application Process

Step 1: Choose Your Bank

We recommend based on your needs: - Frequent international transfers → Piraeus or NBG - Digital-first banking → Eurobank - Investment focus → Alpha Bank

Step 2: Prepare Documents

- Translate documents to Greek (certified translation) - Get apostille on foreign documents if required - Ensure all documents are current (not expired)

Step 3: Submit Application

Option A: In person - Visit a branch in Greece - Meet with account manager - Submit documents and sign forms

Option B: Remote (via our service) - Send documents to us - We submit to bank's international department - Video KYC call scheduled - Account opened remotely

Step 4: Video KYC

Most Greek banks now offer video identification: - Scheduled video call with bank officer - Show passport and documents on camera - Answer standard KYC questions - Takes 15-30 minutes

Step 5: Account Activation

- Online banking credentials sent securely - Debit card mailed to your address - Account ready for use

Account Types

Current Account (Τρεχούμενος Λογαριασμός)

- For daily transactions - Debit card included - Online banking access - Monthly fee: €3-€8 (often waived with minimum balance)

Savings Account (Λογαριασμός Αποταμίευσης)

- Higher interest rates - Limited withdrawals - No debit card - Good for emergency funds

Foreign Currency Account

- Hold EUR, USD, GBP - Useful for pension receipts - Exchange rate risk management - Higher fees

Fees to Know

FeeTypical Cost

Monthly maintenance€3-€8 ATM withdrawal (own bank)Free ATM withdrawal (other Greek bank)€1-€2 ATM withdrawal (abroad)€2-€4 + 2-3% SEPA transferFree or €1-€3 SWIFT transfer€15-€50 Debit card replacement€5-€15 Overdraft8-12% annual

Receiving Your Pension

From EU/EEA Countries

- SEPA transfer (free or minimal fee) - Arrives in 1-2 business days - No currency conversion needed (EUR)

From the UK (Post-Brexit)

- SWIFT transfer - Fee: £10-£25 per transfer - Takes 2-5 business days

From the USA

- SWIFT or wire transfer - Fee: $15-£50 per transfer - Consider TransferWise/Wise for better rates

From Other Countries

- SWIFT transfer - Fees vary by country and bank - We advise on the most cost-effective method

Tips for Foreign Account Holders

1. Keep minimum balance — Most banks waive monthly fees if you maintain €500-€1,000

2. Use SEPA for EU transfers — Always free within the SEPA zone

3. Notify bank of travel — Prevent card blocks when using abroad

4. Set up online banking immediately — Essential for managing your account

5. Consider two accounts — One for daily use, one for savings/pension

Common Issues

"My application was rejected"

Common reasons: incomplete documents, source of funds unclear, negative credit check. We review everything before submission.

"I can't get a debit card"

Some banks issue cards only after you've been a customer for 30+ days. We can recommend banks with immediate card issuance.

"My home bank won't transfer to Greece"

Some banks are cautious about international transfers. We can provide a formal letter from the Greek bank confirming the account is legitimate.

How We Help

Our bank account opening service includes: - Bank recommendation based on your needs - Document preparation and translation - Application submission - Video KYC assistance - Online banking setup - Debit card tracking - Ongoing banking support

Book a free consultation to discuss your banking needs.

Opening a Bank Account in Greece as a Foreigner