How can a newcomer open a bank account in Greece in 2026?

Alpha Bank’s public FAQ for new accounts points to proof of identity (ID, passport, or accepted protection cards), tax details such as an AFM issuance certificate or income-tax clearance where relevant, proof of address and phone (recent utility or tax documents), and proof of occupation such as employer certificates, payslips, or professional evidence. NBG’s appointment guidance likewise starts from Greek or EU ID or a valid passport, with extra packs when customer details are incomplete.

In practice, newcomers should arrive with passport, AFM certificate, Greek mobile number if they have one, lease or host proof, and employment or income evidence for the account purpose. Non-EU residents often add a residence permit. Branches differ; call the exact Attica or Thessaloniki office before you queue.

Finish Get an AFM first. Complete address registration via lease acceptance so utility and tax papers match. Activate TAXISnet if the bank wants digital tax screenshots. Bring residence evidence when your status requires it: EU certificate or residence permit.

A Greek prepaid number helps SMS banking and gov.gr later, even when tourist roaming still works. Payroll products may also ask for AMKA once employment starts.

Missing AFM, English-only documents without translation when the branch insists on Greek, and trying to open a full resident package from abroad without a representative are common stalls. Capital controls are no longer the daily story; KYC is. Some digital onboarding exists for people already deep in the Greek system, yet most newcomers still sign in a branch.

Keep an IBAN ready for rent transfers once AADE lease rules and landlord expectations require electronic payment trails.