Opening a Greek Bank Account

Understand what is required to open a bank account in Greece...

According to EU legislation, EU citizens may open a bank account in another EU-member country, as long as documentation can be provided proving the applicant is an EU citizen and is resident in an EU country. Before opening a bank account in one of Greece's banks, international customers may wish to compare commission rates for money transfer to and from Greece, as well as services and interest rates. Types of account include:
  • Savings and Current Accounts
  • Monthly Income Savings Accounts
  • Investment Accounts
  • Student Accounts
  • Time Deposits
  • Deposit Accounts in Foreign Currency
Most Greek banks provide cheque books, account statements, cards for ATM use, and facilities such as standing orders for the payment of utilities bills and credit card payments, overdraft facilities and payroll services. The following documents are usually necessary to open an account:
  • Identity card and/or passport
  • Proof of address
  • Formal statement declaring that the account will not be used for trade
  • Copy of tax statement (for overdrafts only)
Most banks require a minimum deposit for opening an account, and for some banks the person must be over 18. There are usually no charges for opening an account in Greece. Hellenic Bank have a guide on how to open a bank account as a foreign resident