You need a tax number called an AFM to work legally in Greece. Please read the article below to learn how to get this number, how to activate it, and when you need to use it.
How to Get an AFM Number
For Asylum Seekers Registered After 31-12-2020:
- The AFM number is issued after completing the registration procedure with the Asylum Service.
- Asylum Service Offices, accommodation facilities, and Reception and Identification Centers (RIC) will issue the AFM number.
- You can check your AFM status, number, and Tax Office (DOY) on the online platform.
- The AFM number remains valid throughout the asylum application process.
- The AFM number will be automatically deactivated if your appeal is rejected twice.
For Asylum Seekers Registered Before 31-12-2020:
To obtain an AFM number after the specified date, you must undergo the same procedure written above - handled by the Asylum Service.
For Ukrainian Nationals:
Your AFM number is on your card if you have Temporary Protection status.
How Long Does It Take to Get an AFM Number?
For asylum seekers registered after 31-12-2020, the AFM number will be issued instantly after completing the registration procedure. A tax registration form, including your details and tax identification number, will be given to you with the international protection applicant's card.
The policy requires tax officers to verify the authenticity of your documents before issuing an AFM number.
The tax officers will contact the regional Asylum Office where your Full Registration Card or Residence Permit was first issued, asking for official verification that your ID document is authentic.
Your proof of address will also be checked to ensure that it's genuine and that the information provided is valid. This process is difficult and can take a while.
- If you provide proof of address issued by an official accommodation facility such as a camp or UNHCR accommodation, the tax authorities will check with the accommodation manager.
- If you declared a permanent address through an official form found here, tax authorities might ask for additional documents to prove your address, such as a utility bill or a solemn declaration by your host or landlord. They may even check with authorities like the local municipality, the police or the regional Asylum Office.
This authentication process could take more than a month. No tax office in Greece can issue an AFM number before officially confirming your documents' authenticity.
The tax office (ΔΟΥ) to which your profile account and AFM belong is determined based on the taxpayer's postal code.
If authorities find your documents fake, you may be charged with forgery and using a forged document.
What do I need to know if I'm already an AFM holder?
According to the policy change in July 2018, the tax office will screen asylum-seekers and refugees who already have an AFM to ensure they use authentic documents.
For tax offices across Greece to conduct this screening, refugees or asylum-seekers who already hold an AFM number can only complete any process at the tax office once tax officers officially authenticate their documents.
The tax office will keep the official verification document in the AFM-holder's personal file for future reference.
If an AFM number was issued with forged documents, tax officers will deactivate it and inform the public prosecutor, and the holder of that AFM number will face criminal charges.
Accessing the Online TAXISnet Platform
You can access the TAXISnet platform in three ways:
1. Direct Application: Password assigned immediately via email and SMS.
2. Videocall Appointment: Through myAADElive with an employee, the password is given via email.
3. In-person Visit: At a Tax Office.
Online Application Steps:
- Start the application on the TAXISnet page.
- Fill out a form to create a username and password. Make sure you write them down to remember them later.
- You will receive a "klidarithmos" number (κλειδάριθμος) via email.
- Return to the TAXISnet page and log in using your username, password, and klidarithmos to activate your account.
Keep your TAXISnet username and password safe, as you will need them for almost all tax office procedures.
Through this platform, you can:
- Submit a tax declaration yearly (even one that states zero income)
- Print a tax clearance certificate
- Print an AFM certificate
- Apply for social benefits (if you are eligible)
As this platform is only in Greek and quite complex, you can ask for help from an accountant or a Greek NGO.