Opening a bank account in Greece is one of the first practical steps after moving to the country. You will usually need one for salary payments, rent transfers, utility direct debits, tax procedures, and everyday transactions. While Greek banking can initially feel bureaucratic, the process is generally straightforward once your paperwork is in order
If you are still planning your relocation, you may also want to read our complete Moving to Greece in 2026: The Complete Expat Guide, where we explain residency pathways, bureaucracy, healthcare, housing, taxation, and the first practical steps after arrival in Greece.
Because Greek banks rely heavily on AFM verification and proof of address, this guide works best alongside our detailed article How to Get Your AFM and AMKA in Greece: A Step by Step Guide for Expats, which explains the administrative foundation behind most banking procedures.
In many cases, opening a bank account also helps unlock access to TAXISnet and gov.gr, since banks are commonly used for identity verification linked to Greek digital services.
Which Greek Bank Is Best for Expats in 2026?
The “Big Four” Greek banks have significantly improved their digital services in recent years, making everyday banking considerably easier for international residents than it was a decade ago. However, the right choice depends less on advertising and more on your actual lifestyle, location, and how comfortable you are navigating Greek bureaucracy.
National Bank of Greece (NBG)
National Bank of Greece remains the country’s largest banking network, with one of the widest ATM and branch coverages in Greece. This can be particularly useful if you live outside central Athens or spend time on islands and in smaller towns where branch availability matters.
Its online banking and mobile app support English language navigation, and the bank has invested heavily in digital onboarding and customer support services in recent years.
For expats who value stability, physical accessibility, and a more traditional banking structure, NBG is often considered a reliable option.
Piraeus Bank
Many expats consider Piraeus Bank one of the easiest Greek banks to use digitally. Its mobile banking app is generally viewed as modern and user friendly, especially for day to day transactions such as bill payments, transfers, and account management.
Piraeus has also expanded remote identification and digital onboarding options, reducing paperwork for some customers.
For people who prefer “mobile first” banking and handle most transactions online, Piraeus is often one of the most practical choices.
Alpha Bank
Alpha Bank is frequently chosen by property buyers, higher income residents, and clients seeking more investment or private banking oriented services.
The bank has developed dedicated services for international clients and Greeks living abroad, particularly in areas connected to mortgages, international transfers, and tax related banking procedures.
Its myAlpha online banking platform is generally considered stable and straightforward for international transfers and account management.
Eurobank
Eurobank is particularly popular among freelancers, remote workers, and digital nomads managing international income streams.
Many expats report that Eurobank branches in international areas of Athens and Crete are relatively accustomed to handling foreign documentation and residency related procedures.
The bank also offers strong digital banking functionality and is commonly used by clients managing multiple currencies or frequent international transfers.
Quick Comparison for Expats
Best for branch and ATM coverage: National Bank of Greece
Best for mobile banking experience: Piraeus Bank
Best for property buyers and investors: Alpha Bank
Best for digital nomads and international transfers: Eurobank
💡 Our practical recommendation:
Many expats report particularly smooth day to day experiences with Piraeus Bank and Eurobank, mainly because of their digital banking services and relatively user friendly mobile apps. However, in Greece, the branch itself often matters more than the bank brand.
In practice, central Athens branches, especially in areas such as Syntagma, Kolonaki, and Kifisia, are generally more accustomed to assisting international residents and English speaking customers. Branches in expat heavy areas of the southern suburbs and Crete are also often familiar with foreign documentation procedures.
At the same time, requirements can sometimes vary slightly between branches of the same bank. If one branch becomes unnecessarily complicated, many expats simply try another location rather than assuming the issue applies everywhere.
Documents Required
For EU/EEA Citizens
You will usually need:
• Valid passport or national ID
• AFM (Greek tax number)
• Proof of address (rental agreement, utility bill, or hosting declaration)
• Proof of employment or income
For Non EU Citizens
Non EU applicants gnerally need all of the above, plus:
• Valid residence permit (not only a visa)
• In some cases, proof of source of funds or additional banking documentation
Greek banks have become increasingly strict regarding anti money laundering compliance. As a result, questions about income sources, international transfers, or expected account activity are completely normal and should not be interpreted personally.
Step by Step Process
1. Obtain Your AFM First
No Greek bank will open an account without an AFM (Greek tax number). If you have not yet completed this process, read our guide How to Get Your AFM and AMKA in Greece: A Step by Step Guide for Expats before booking your banking appointment.
2. Choose Your Branch Carefully
As we already mentioned, some branches are significantly more familiar with expat procedures than others. Central Athens locations are often easier for foreigners to navigate.
3. Book an Appointment
Many banks now require appointments before opening a new account.
4. Bring Originals and Copies
Bring both original documents and photocopies. Greek bureaucracy still relies heavily on printed paperwork and physical signatures.
5. Complete the Application
The process usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes and typically includes KYC (“Know Your Customer”) questions regarding income sources and expected account activity.
6. Receive Your Debit Card
Your debit card generally arrives within 5 to 10 business days.
Banking Fees to Expect in 2026
Subscription style banking packages have now become standard in Greece.
• Eurobank: approximately €0.60/month (“My Blue Advantage” package)
• Alpha Bank: approximately €0.80/month
These monthly fees are often waived if:
• your salary or pension is paid into the account
• you maintain a higher account balance or investment relationship with the bank
In many cases, debit card fees are now included within these monthly banking packages.
Additional common costs and features include:
• Debit card: usually included in subscription packages or approximately €5–15 annually
• ATM withdrawals from your own bank: free
• ATM withdrawals from other major Greek banks through the DIAS system: now free for retail customers following legislative changes introduced in 2025
• Third party ATMs (such as Euronet): fees still apply but are legally capped at approximately €1.50 per transaction
• SEPA (Single European Payments Area) transfers through online banking: often inexpensive for smaller amounts, though branch based transfers or larger transactions may still involve higher fees
• Online banking access: usually free
The major ATM fee reform introduced in 2025 eliminated most interbank withdrawal charges between Greek systemic banks participating in the DIAS network.
Many Greek residents now also use IRIS instant payments for small transfers between Greek bank accounts using only a mobile phone number.
As of 2026, IRIS transfers are generally free for individuals within daily limits and have begun integrating with wider European instant payment systems.
Practical Tips from Expats
The “Utility Bill Problem”
A common issue for newcomers is that banks may request a utility bill as proof of address, while utility companies may require a Greek bank account first.
In practice, many expats solve this by:
• using their rental agreement
• submitting a hosting declaration
• asking their landlord for a recent utility bill together with a signed confirmation letter stating they reside at the property
International Transfers
Many international residents use services such as Wise or Revolut alongside their Greek bank account for lower currency conversion fees and international transfers.
However, these services may not always work for Greek utility direct debits or certain government related payments.
You can learn more here:
Wise International Transfers
Revolut Greece Information
Additional Banking Tips & Insider Advice
• Ask whether the branch has English speaking staff before booking your appointment
• Link your account to your Greek mobile number for online banking verification and security notifications
• Keep printed and digital copies of all banking documents; Greek authorities occasionally request proof of funds or banking confirmation during residency or tax procedures
• If you receive foreign income, ask about international transfer options or multi currency solutions
• Couples and families sometimes choose joint accounts for rent and household expenses, though both account holders usually need to attend the appointment in person
For example, many expats paid in USD or GBP reduce conversion costs by planning transfers strategically or combining their Greek account with services such as Wise or Revolut for international payments.
Greek banking apps also rely heavily on SMS verification codes, making a working Greek mobile number extremely useful during the first months after relocation.
Card Payments vs Cash in Greece
Although Greece was traditionally considered a cash heavy society, card payments and digital banking are now widely used, particularly in Athens, Thessaloniki, and larger urban areas.
Most restaurants, supermarkets, pharmacies, taxis, and cafés accept cards. However, carrying some cash still helps in smaller villages, island locations, local markets, or older family run businesses.
Useful Greek Banking Vocabulary
• Λογαριασμός = Account
• Κατάθεση = Deposit
• Ανάληψη = Withdrawal
• Μεταφορά = Transfer
• Υπόλοιπο = Balance
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I open a Greek bank account without an AFM?
No. The AFM is mandatory for almost all banking procedures in Greece.
Can I open an account before moving to Greece?
In practice, it is very difficult. Most banks require an in person appointment together with proof of Greek residence.
How long does the process usually take?
The appointment itself generally lasts 30 to 60 minutes. Accounts are often activated within 1 to 3 business days, while debit cards typically arrive within 5 to 10 business days.
Can I use Revolut or Wise instead of a Greek bank account?
They can be very useful for international transfers and exchange rates, but they may not fully replace a Greek bank account for certain local procedures, utility direct debits, residency applications, or government related payments.
📌 Banking procedures and fees referenced in this guide reflect information available as of May 2026. Requirements, fees, and policies may vary by branch and bank, so always confirm details directly with your chosen institution.
