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 live or plan to live, work or retire in Greece. Most people get their AMKA when they are first employed or when they register with the Greek social security system.

An AMKA is a unique identification number which you will need for accessing certain healthcare services (such as going to a doctor, eye doctor or dentist), insurance and employment benefits gained through your employment, subject to applicable eligibility requirements.

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 for non-residents, expats and non-Greek citizens to get an AMKA in Greece. Our team and independent accounting partners 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 represent 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 generally need your AMKA. Also, when booking a doctor’s appointment online through the Greek digital system, you may need your AMKA to access the relevant services.

Greece has a robust health system, and certain medical information, including prescriptions and vaccination records, may be recorded electronically. Your AMKA is used to identify you within relevant healthcare systems, subject to eligibility and access requirements.

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.

How do I know if I’m eligible for an AMKA and what do I need to get an AMKA?

Depending on your citizenship and circumstances, you may need:

• An AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number): Many people enquire with us to get an AMKA before they get an AFM. An AFM may be required for associated employment, tax or administrative procedures, although it is not a universal prerequisite for every AMKA applicant.
• Proof of address in Greece: This may be required to activate your AMKA. You can provide appropriate evidence such as a lease agreement or proof of property ownership, where accepted. If you are living in temporary accommodation or with someone else, additional documentation may be required.

Eligibility, issuance and activation requirements vary depending on whether you are a Greek citizen, EU citizen or third-country national.

Can I get an AMKA if I’m a non-EU citizen or third-country national?

Yes, you can, provided you meet the applicable eligibility requirements. You may need a valid residence permit or another recognised immigration document, depending on your circumstances. EU citizens have different documentation requirements, although proof of residence or other supporting documents may still be necessary.

How to apply for an AMKA

Get your documents organised and ready

You need to gather the relevant documents to apply for your AMKA. Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• Identity card or passport (for EU citizens).
• A copy of your birth certificate, translated into Greek where required (including certain applications involving minors).
• A copy of your residence permit or other qualifying immigration documentation (this applies to non-EU nationals where required).
• Your AFM (Greek Tax Identification Number), where required for the relevant administrative procedures. Our team can assist with obtaining your AFM and coordinating the necessary documentation. Contact us, and we can arrange assistance through our consultancy services and independent accounting partners with your AFM.
• Proof of your Greek address, where required. This may be through an electricity bill, lease or even a water bill, depending on the accepted documentation.

Take your documents to KEP, KEM or EFKA

You can generally attend an authorised KEP or e-EFKA office to apply for your AMKA or request activation. Other service points may apply to certain applicant categories. Appointment requirements and opening hours vary, so it is advisable to check before attending.

Once you are there, you should submit your application, including your documents, so that your AMKA can be processed. Your AMKA may be issued or activated through the relevant service, depending on your eligibility and documentation.

Once you have an active AMKA, you can use it for the relevant healthcare, social security and pension-related procedures in Greece. However, access to particular benefits depends on satisfying the applicable insurance and eligibility requirements.

Can someone help me apply for an AMKA in Greece?

Yes, of course. If you require assistance, get in touch with our team. We provide administrative support and coordinate with independent accountants and lawyers where necessary to help you prepare your documentation and obtain your AMKA (and AFM) if required.

Some procedures may require you to attend an authorised office in person.

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 an 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 guided 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

Important Clarification

Tsaks Consulting Greece is a business consultancy, not a law firm or accounting practice. We provide consultancy, administrative assistance and coordination services, working with independent accountants, lawyers and other qualified professionals where required.

AMKA eligibility, issuance and activation depend on individual circumstances, citizenship or residence status and applicable Greek regulations. Having an AMKA does not automatically guarantee healthcare coverage or access to all social security benefits. Requirements may change and should be confirmed with the relevant Greek authorities.