Start a Business in Greece and Expand Across Europe
Greece provides a strategic gateway to the European market. We help entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses establish the right structure with clear guidance on incorporation, compliance, and long-term growth.
- Strategic business structure and planning guidance
- Company formation and regulatory compliance support
- Ongoing advisory services for sustainable growth
Why Greece Is Attracting Entrepreneurs
EU Membership
As a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, Greece provides businesses with direct access to the EU single market. Companies established in Greece can trade freely across member states while benefiting from a stable regulatory framework. This makes Greece an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking a European base with access to customers, suppliers, and investment opportunities across the continent.
Lower Operating Costs
Compared with many Western European jurisdictions, Greece offers competitive operating costs for businesses. Office space, professional services, and employment expenses can often be lower than in major business hubs elsewhere in Europe. For startups and growing companies, this can help reduce overheads while maintaining access to EU markets and a skilled workforce.
Established Industries
Greece has strong foundations in sectors including tourism, shipping, logistics, renewable energy, technology, real estate, and professional services. Its strategic location in the Eastern Mediterranean also supports international trade and transport activities. Entrepreneurs entering established industries can benefit from existing infrastructure, experienced talent, and growing investment across key sectors of the Greek economy.
Starting a Business in Greece: 5 Key Requirements Before Registration
Our specialists help you establish the right foundation before registration, helping reduce delays and compliance issues later.
From Business Formation to Market Entry in Greece
A practical framework designed to help entrepreneurs establish, operate, and grow their business within the Greek market.
Choosing the Right Business Structure in Greece
PRIVATE COMPANY (IKE)
€1
Minimum Capital Requirement
- One or more shareholders
- Limited liability protection
- Flexible management structure
- Suitable for most commercial activities
- Scalable for future growth
- Popular with entrepreneurs and SMEs
Best for:
New businesses establishing a presence in Greece
BRANCH OFFICE
22%
Corporate Tax on Greek Profits
- Operates under the parent company
- Liability linked to the parent entity
- Local representative required
- Extension of existing operations
- Supports market entry and expansion
- Popular with overseas companies
Best for:
Existing businesses entering the Greek market
What Our Greece Business Startup Service Includes
Guidance on selecting the most suitable Greek business structure based on your objectives, ownership requirements, and growth plans.
End-to-end support with company incorporation and registration with the relevant Greek authorities.
Assistance with obtaining a Greek Tax Identification Number (AFM) and completing initial tax registrations.
Guidance through banking requirements and account opening procedures for your Greek business.
Support in meeting registered address and administrative requirements for company formation.
Assistance with identifying and addressing industry-specific licensing and regulatory obligations.
Support with ongoing filing obligations, corporate compliance, and operational requirements.
Strategic guidance for entrepreneurs, investors, and international businesses operating between Greece and other jurisdictions.
Is Greece the Right Move for You?
A Luxembourg S.à r.l. requires a minimum share capital of €12,000, which must be fully subscribed and paid up at the time of incorporation.
An S.à r.l. may have between one and one hundred shareholders. Foreign investors can own 100% of the company, with no requirement for local shareholders or Luxembourg national participation.
The company must appoint one or more managers (gérants) to oversee operations. There is no mandatory Luxembourg residency requirement for managers.
Shares in an S.à r.l. are not freely transferable and generally require execution before a Luxembourg notary.
Ideal for founder-led businesses, consultants, professional services firms, trading companies, and holding structures.
You are choosing a structure based only on initial setup costs.
Your future ownership plans are still unclear.
You have not reviewed the ongoing reporting and compliance obligations.
Expansion, succession, or future investment plans have not been factored into the decision.
Proper planning before incorporation can help avoid costly restructuring later.
How Lanop Works: A Structured 3-Phase Process
Phase 1 Includes
- 1Understand your business objectives
- 2Assess the most suitable legal structure
- 3Review ownership and shareholder arrangements
- 4Consider tax and compliance requirements
- 5Identify licensing or regulatory obligations
YOU RECEIVE:
A clear business setup strategy, recommended structure, and implementation roadmap.
Phase 2 Includes
- 1Company incorporation support
- 2Greek tax number (AFM) registration
- 3Registered business address assistance
- 4Corporate banking preparation
- 5Submission of incorporation documentation
YOU RECEIVE:
A legally established Greek company prepared for operational setup.
Phase 3 Includes
- 1Accounting and bookkeeping coordination
- 2Corporate tax and VAT compliance
- 3Annual filing requirements
- 4Regulatory and reporting support
- 5Guidance as the business grows
YOU RECEIVE:
Ongoing support to help maintain compliance and keep the business operating efficiently.
How Lanop Supports Business Setup in Greece?
Setting up a business in Greece requires careful planning around company structure, registrations, and compliance. Lanop guides entrepreneurs through every stage of the process, helping them establish a compliant and efficient foundation for growth within Greece and the wider EU market.
Common Challenge: Choosing the most suitable legal structure for your objectives and future plans.
LANOP Support: Business Structure Advisory.
Outcome: Greater setup confidence.
Common Challenge: Understanding tax registrations and regulatory requirements.
LANOP Support: Regulatory Compliance Support.
Outcome: Improved visibility.
Common Challenge: Managing incorporation documentation and registration processes.
LANOP Support: Formation Process Management.
Outcome: Smoother incorporation.
Common Challenge: Coordinating between lawyers, accountants, banks, and other service providers.
LANOP Support: Centralised Project Coordination.
Outcome: Better efficiency.
Common Challenge: Keeping up with ongoing filing, tax, and compliance requirements.
LANOP Support: Ongoing Compliance Support.
Outcome: Long-term business support.
FAQs: Starting a Business in Greece
Can a foreigner start a business in Greece?
Yes. Greece allows foreign entrepreneurs to establish and own businesses in most sectors. EU citizens generally face fewer administrative requirements, while non-EU nationals may need additional documentation depending on their circumstances. Greece has become increasingly attractive for international investors due to its EU membership, strategic location, and growing business environment. Choosing the right structure and obtaining proper guidance can make the setup process significantly smoother.
What type of company suits a small business in Greece?
The Private Company (IKE) is one of the most popular structures for small and medium-sized businesses in Greece. It offers limited liability, flexible management, and relatively straightforward administration. Other structures, such as the EPE or SA, may suit larger operations or businesses seeking external investment. The best choice depends on your ownership structure, growth plans, and operational requirements.
Can I own 100% of a Greek company?
Yes. Foreign investors can generally own 100% of a Greek company without requiring a local shareholder. This makes Greece an attractive option for entrepreneurs looking to maintain full control of their business. Certain regulated sectors may have additional requirements, but most commercial activities allow complete foreign ownership and participation.
Should I open a branch or a Greek company?
Both options are available, but the right choice depends on your business goals. A branch may be suitable for companies expanding existing operations into Greece, while a separate Greek company can provide greater flexibility, liability protection, and local market credibility. Tax, compliance, and long-term expansion plans should all be considered before deciding.
Do I need a local director in Greece?
In most cases, Greece does not require a local shareholder, but management and operational arrangements should be considered carefully. Depending on the business structure and tax objectives, having local management may provide practical and compliance benefits. Professional advice can help determine the most suitable governance structure for your circumstances.
How long does it take to register a company in Greece?
A straightforward company formation can often be completed within a few weeks, provided all required documentation is available. The timeline depends on factors such as company type, shareholder arrangements, tax registration, and banking procedures. Delays are usually related to document preparation or regulatory approvals rather than the incorporation process itself.
What documents are required to start a business in Greece?
Requirements vary depending on the company structure and shareholder profile. Typically, identification documents, proof of address, company information, and incorporation paperwork are required. Non-Greek documents may need translation and certification before submission. Preparing documentation correctly from the beginning helps avoid delays during the registration process.
Do I need a registered office address in Greece?
Yes. Every Greek company requires a registered business address for official correspondence and regulatory purposes. Depending on your business model, this may be a physical office, commercial premises, or an approved registered address service. The address must meet legal requirements and remain available for company records and communications.
Can I set up a business in Greece remotely?
In many cases, yes. Much of the incorporation process can be coordinated remotely through authorised representatives and professional advisors. However, certain banking, identification, or compliance procedures may still require additional verification. Remote setup is increasingly common for international entrepreneurs establishing a presence in Greece.
Do I need a Greek business bank account?
Yes. A Greek business bank account is generally required for company operations, tax payments, payroll, and commercial transactions. Banks will typically request shareholder identification, company documents, and compliance information. Banking requirements vary between institutions, so preparation and professional support can help speed up the process.
What taxes does a Greek company pay?
Greek companies are generally subject to corporate income tax, VAT obligations, payroll taxes, and social security contributions where applicable. The exact tax position depends on the nature of the business and its activities. Understanding tax obligations before incorporation is important for budgeting, compliance, and selecting the most appropriate business structure.
Do I need a Greek accountant?
Yes. Most businesses operating in Greece require local accounting support to manage bookkeeping, tax filings, payroll obligations, and regulatory reporting. Greek tax regulations can be detailed, and maintaining accurate records is essential for compliance. Working with qualified professionals helps reduce administrative burdens and minimise compliance risks.
Does Greece have a tax treaty with the UK?
Yes. Greece and the United Kingdom have a double taxation agreement designed to prevent the same income from being taxed twice. The treaty provides rules for determining taxing rights and may offer relief for certain types of income. Proper planning remains important to ensure treaty benefits are applied effectively.
What ongoing compliance requirements should I expect?
Greek companies must maintain accounting records, submit tax returns, update corporate information when necessary, and comply with employment and regulatory obligations. Depending on the industry, additional licences or sector-specific requirements may apply. Ongoing compliance management is essential to avoid penalties and ensure smooth business operations.
Will becoming tax resident in Greece affect my UK tax position?
Potentially. Your tax position depends on factors such as residency status, business activities, and the amount of time spent in each country. The UK Statutory Residence Test and the UK-Greece tax treaty may both influence your obligations. Seeking professional advice before relocating or restructuring can help avoid unexpected tax complications.
