What are the legal requirements for selling real estate to foreigners in Greece?

Selling real estate to foreigners in Greece is a process that follows specific legal rules. Below are the basic requirements:

1. Buyer's Legal Capacity

The foreign buyer must have the right to enter into contracts in Greece. There are no restrictions for EU citizens. For third-country citizens, additional documents may be required.

2. Checking the Legality of the Property

The seller must provide the following:

 Title Deeds (purchase contract, inheritance contract, etc.)

 Certificate of Ownership from the Land Registry

 Engineer's certificate (that there are no irregularities)

Energy efficiency certificate

 Certificate of non-debt for ENFIA

3. Obtaining a Tax Identification Number (TIN) by the Buyer

Every foreign buyer must obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN) in Greece. This is done through a representative at any DOY (tax office).

4. Opening a Bank Account in Greece

The buyer can open a Greek bank account, although payment can also be made from abroad via bank transfer.

5. Purchase and Sale Tax

Real estate transfer tax (3%) – Paid by the buyer.

Capital gains tax (15%) – Paid by the seller (if there is a profit from the sale).

If the property is newly built, a 24% VAT is imposed instead of a transfer tax.

6. Contract Signing & Notarial Deed

The sale takes place in the presence of a notary who draws up the final transfer contract. The presence of a lawyer is optional, but recommended.

7. Registration in the Land Registry

After signing, the buyer must register the property in the Land Registry or the Mortgage Registry (depending on the area).

8. Restrictions for Third Country Citizens

 Border regions (Evros, Dodecanese, Eastern Aegean):

For non-EU citizens, approval from the Ministry of National Defense is required.

 Golden Visa:

Foreigners can obtain a residence permit (Golden Visa) if they purchase a property of €250,000+ (or €500,000 in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini).

9. Money Control & Money Laundering

Payment must be made via bank transfer, to ensure the transparency of the transaction.