What is and how to obtain an AMKA in Greece?
In Greece an AMKA is a Greek Social Security Number. It is critical to have if you are or plan to live, work or retire in Greece. Most people get their AMKA when they are first employed or after they get their AFM.
An AMKA is a unique identification number which you will need to access healthcare services (such as going to a doctor, eye doctor or dentist), insurance and employment benefits gained through your employment.
For expats moving to Greece, Freelancers based in Greece or even a spouse living in Greece married to a Greek or European Citizen, you will need to know how to set up and obtain an AMKA.
Let’s take a look at the process non-residents, expats and non-Greek citizens to get an AMKA in Greece. Our team of in-house accountants can also help you obtain your AMKA.
What is an AMKA in Greece?
An AMKA (Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης) is an 11 digit Greek Social Security Number. The first six digits are easy to remember – they are your date of birth. There are an additional five digits as well which make up your AMKA number.
When you are communicating with a potential employer, attending a hospital (touch wood), applying for a pension or undertaking some other kind of social benefit initiative, you will need your AMKA. Also, when booking a doctors appointment online through the Greek digital system, you will also need your AMKA to log in.
Greece has a robust health system and your medical files are stored on the system so doctors can see your immunisation status and medical history. You will need your AMKA number to update or get a new medical booklet.
Other uses you will have for an AMKA include:
- To pay your insurance contributions (if you are a freelancer)
- To get a job and be insured at work.
- To apply for your pension.
How do I know if I’m eligible for an AMKA and what do I need to get an AMKA?
In order to get an AMKA you must have:
- An AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number): Many people enquire with us to get an AMKA before they get an AFM. However, you need to apply for your AFM before getting your AMKA number.
- Proof of address in Greece. This is quite easy and you can provide a copy of your lease agreement or alternatively an E9 document if you are living in your own property. Alternatively, you can have someone sign a declaration for you if you are living in an AirBnb or something along those lines.
Can I get an AMKA if I’m a non-eu citizen or third country national?
Yes you can – the requirement is that you secure a temporary residence permit (or another type of permit if you are on a spouse visa or something along those lines). This is not required for EU citizens.
How to apply for an AMKA
Get your documents organised and ready
You need to gather the following documents to apply for your AMKA:
- Identity Card of Passport (for EU Citizens)
- A copy of your birth certificate translated into Greek (this applies to non-Greek minors who were born in Greece)
- A copy of your Residence Permit (this applies to non-EU nationals as stated earlier)
- Your AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number). Our team can help you get your AFM often in less than three days. Contact us and one of our accountants will call you back to arrange a time to assist you with your AFM.
- Proof of your Greek address. This can be through an electricity bill, lease or even a water bill.
Take your documents to KEP, KEM or EFKA
You need to attend a KEP, KEM or EFKA to get your AMKA. You generally don’t need to make an appointment and most of them open at 8am. Once you are there, you should submit your application, including your documents so that your AMKA can be processed. Your AMKA number will usually be sent to you in the Mail.
Once you have your AMKA, you will be able to access all the healthcare, social security and pension benefits in Greece.
Can someone help me apply for an AMKA in Greece?
Yes of course. If you require assistance, get in touch with our team. Our partner accountants and partner lawyers can help you through the process so you can get your AMKA (and AFM) if required.
Client testimonials
I attended the EFKA office three times with no success at all. I needed to get the AMKA for my work. I spoke with Tsaks Consulting and one of their Partner accountants. They guided me through what I needed including documentation. They clarified a few things and spoke to EFKA on my behalf. I finally got my AMKA.
Farbod S | Expat Resident | Iran
I needed to get AMKA for the new job I was starting. I explained to them that I couldn’t get it until I started working. That’s what EFKA told me. It’s all quite confusing. In the end I spoke to the team at Tsaks Consulting and one of their partner accountants showed me through the process and arranged it all for me. They made it easy. They have the confidence to communicate with EFKA.
Pedro S | Expat resident in Athens | Spain