How to Register a Sole Proprietorship (Ατομική Επιχείρηση) in Greece

Greece is often associated with bureaucracy, but registering as a sole proprietor (ατομική επιχείρηση) is one of the more accessible paths to self-employment. The process is managed by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), which oversees tax registration and issues your certificate of business commencement.

Everything is submitted digitally using your TAXISnet (Greece’s official online tax portal) credentials, including details such as your activity code (KAD), business address, and VAT status. Within minutes, you receive a digitally signed certificate that allows you to start trading.

While the system places responsibility for taxes, social security, and record-keeping directly on the individual, it also provides freelancers and entrepreneurs with full control over their business.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal advice. Please always check official sources or seek professional guidance before taking action.

What is a sole proprietorship in Greece?

In Greece, a sole proprietorship is officially called ατομική επιχείρηση. Depending on context, it may also be referred to as:

• Sole trader
• Self-employed worker
• Independent contractor

These terms all describe the same business model: one person legally running a business without forming a company.

How does a sole proprietorship (ατομική επιχείρηση) work in Greece?

An alternative to a sole proprietorship is the Private Company (IKE), a relatively new legal form in Greece that works much like a limited liability company. Here is how the two compare:

Step-by-step guide: How to register a sole proprietorship in Greece

Step 1: Check your eligibility

To register as a sole proprietor in Greece, you must be at least 18 years old, hold either Greek or EU citizenship (or a valid residence permit that allows self-employment), and have a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM). Your business must have its registered base in Greece, and you cannot already operate another sole proprietorship. For non-EU nationals living abroad, the process is carried out through a tax representative in Greece, who submits the application on your behalf to the Tax Office (DOY) or the GEMI.

Step 2: Choose your business name

The business name must be unique. You can check the name's availability via GEMI’s e-OSS portal.

Step 3: Gather required documents

You’ll need:

• Form D211 from AADE for registering the sole proprietorship
• Proof of address to operate from
• TAXISnet login credentials
• Tax Identification Number (AFM)
• Activity code (KAD)
• Greek Accounting Standards (GAS) Information: Type of accounting books you'll use

Step 4: Register with AADE and GEMI

Log in to the government portal, submit details, and receive your Business Commencement Certificate digitally.

Step 5: Pay registration fees and contributions

Minimal registration fees. Optional business name registration costs ~€10, plus annual GEMI (€30) and Chamber fees (€20).

Step 6: Complete post-registration obligations

As a sole proprietor in Greece, you must issue invoices that follow the rules of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE). Invoices must include your name or trade name, tax ID (AFM), business address, and, if applicable, your VAT number. They must also be numbered sequentially and reported through AADE’s myDATA platform.

Invoices can be issued digitally or on paper, but you must keep them for at least five years. If you qualify for a VAT exemption, you may issue invoices without VAT, provided the exemption is clearly noted.

Financial and tax obligations for sole proprietors in Greece

You are responsible for:

• Income tax: Sole proprietors are taxed as individuals on their net business profits. Profits are declared annually through your personal income tax return (Form E1). Greece applies progressive rates: 9% up to €10,000, 22% from €10,001–20,000, 28% from €20,001–30,000, 36% from €30,001–40,000, and 44% above €40,000 (2025 brackets).
• Social security contributions: You must pay monthly contributions to e-EFKA, the national social security fund. Rates depend on the insurance tier you select, and payments provide access to healthcare and pension entitlements. Contributions are deductible from taxable income.
• VAT: Registration is required if your turnover exceeds the VAT threshold or if your activity is VAT-liable. The standard VAT rate in Greece is 24%, with reduced rates of 13% and 6% depending on the goods or services. VAT-registered sole proprietors must file periodic returns and include their VAT number on all invoices.
• Record-keeping: Sole proprietors must maintain accounting books according to their declared accounting category. Records must be kept securely for at least five years.

Launch your contracting career and stay compliant with Deel

Registering a sole proprietorship gives you independence, but it also means handling taxes, invoices, and records on your own. Deel’s all-in-one platform helps you manage obligations without the stress. With Deel, you can:

• Automate invoicing and expense tracking with essential Bookkeeping tools
• Create, send, and sign localised work agreements
• Keep accurate records for tax season
• Access expert tax advice and compliance support
• Get paid through multiple payment and withdrawal methods
• Spend your earnings in USD with the Deel Card
• Access funds early with Deel Advance
• Enjoy contractor perks from 150+ partners

Stay independent, without the admin overload. Sign up to Deel for free today.

FAQs

What is the minimum capital required?
None.

Do sole proprietors need to register for VAT?
Yes, if turnover exceeds the VAT threshold or activities fall under VAT rules.

How much are the contributions?
Approx. €50 annually for GEMI/Chamber fees if a business name is registered, plus monthly e-EFKA contributions.

Can they hire employees?
Yes, but the liability remains personal.

How long does it take?
Less than an hour through the government portal.

Can foreign nationals register?
EU citizens can; non-EU nationals need a residence permit with self-employment rights.

Is a separate bank account required?
Not mandatory, but strongly recommended.

What if I stop working?
Deregister via AADE and notify e-EFKA, settling final tax and contributions.

Are there incentives?
Yes, such as reduced tax rates (4.5 % on profits under €10,000 for first 3 years if eligible).

Can I use Deel?
Yes. Deel helps Greek sole proprietors invoice and receive payments worldwide.

Does Deel generate compliant invoices?
Yes, Deel invoices meet Greek tax rules.

Can Deel help with taxes?
Yes, Deel provides downloadable tax reports to simplify filings.

Does Deel offer contracts?
Yes, with templates compliant with Greek law.

Can I access benefits through Deel?
Yes, including optional insurance and savings plans.