LIFE & CULTURE

XpatAthens
How A Local Accountant Can Support Your Business In Greece
- Business Name Registration in Greece: We evaluate your unique circumstances to recommend the ideal business structure, ensuring a smooth and compliant registration process.
- Company Tax Returns: Specialists can manage the filing of corporate tax returns, highlighting potential deductions and ensuring adherence to Greek business tax laws.
- Trust Fund Tax: We assist with tax filings related to trust funds associated with your business, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Bookkeeping: Utilizing cutting-edge bookkeeping technology, we offer real-time updates for online bookkeeping services, alongside traditional offline methods, to suit your preferences.
- Tax Returns for Partnerships: From filing partnership tax returns to managing adjustments during partnership changes, we ensure smooth operations.
- Financial Statements: Our trusted accountants draft precise financial statements for both business and tax purposes, giving you clarity and confidence.
- Small Business No matter the size of your business, our trusted partners are here to help navigate Greek accounting so that you have peace of mind knowing your financial management is taken care of.
- Construction and Real Estate Addressing the specific tax and accounting needs of construction and real estate businesses, our partners offer tailored advice for smooth operations.
- Pharma and Health Supporting hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, and healthcare providers, our experts deliver expert accounting services for the highly regulated health sector.
- Shipping and Logistics Assisting local and international shipping companies, we streamline accounting processes to manage both Greek and global operations.
- Manufacturing and Trade Our accountants specialize in serving manufacturing businesses, providing comprehensive solutions for this dynamic sector.
George Zacharopoulos - Tinder Ruined My Life
"Very funny, and utterly surprising, go see George Zacharopoulos before he leaves town. It is, without question, one of the best hours of comedy on offer."
Duration: 1h15
Tickets:
* Early-bird: €10
The theatre is wheelchair accessible.
Recommended for audiences aged 16 and above.
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Find George online:
YouTube
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About the Athens English Comedy Club
Founded in 2019, the Athens English Comedy Club is the first, and only, purely English comedy club in Greece!
Sign up to our newsletter for direct-to-email updates and exclusive ticket offers!: http://eepurl.com/it6PzQ
Follow us on social media!
Come and laugh! Nay! Come and chortle. Or better yet, guffaw!
Traditional Christmas Customs In Greece







- Christopsomo (Christ’s Bread): A special bread decorated with symbols of the family’s livelihood.
- Melomakarona: Honey-dipped cookies spiced with cinnamon and cloves.
- Kourabiedes: Almond shortbread cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
- Roast Lamb or Pork: Often the centerpiece of the Christmas Day meal.
- Vasilopita: The New Year’s cake, baked in honor of Saint Basil.
Kalanda: The Greek Tradition Of Christmas Carols
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Christmas Eve Kalanda celebrate the birth of Christ and often include references to the Virgin Mary and the nativity scene.
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New Year’s Eve Kalanda honor Saint Basil (Agios Vasilis), wishing health, prosperity, and happiness for the coming year.
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Epiphany Kalanda commemorate the baptism of Christ and the blessings associated with the holy waters.
Regional Variations of Kalanda
Greece’s diverse regions have given rise to unique versions of kalanda, each with its own melodies, instruments, and lyrical themes. Here are a few examples:
1. Thrace
In Thrace, kalanda are accompanied by bagpipes and traditional drums. The carols often include references to local legends and folk tales, creating a rich tapestry of sound and storytelling.
2. Epirus
Epirus kalanda are characterized by slow, melodic tunes performed with a “klarino” (clarinet). The carols here have a reflective, almost solemn tone, emphasizing the spiritual aspects of the season.
3. Crete
Cretan kalanda are lively and upbeat, often featuring the lyra and lute. The lyrics reflect the island’s proud traditions, with frequent mentions of hospitality and the importance of family.
4. The Dodecanese
In the Dodecanese islands, kalanda incorporate influences from Asia Minor, with intricate rhythms and poetic lyrics. Traditional dances sometimes accompany the singing.
5. Pontus
Pontic kalanda are performed with the lyra, a stringed instrument central to the region’s musical identity. The lyrics often recount historical events or local folklore, blending nostalgia with festive joy.
6. The Cyclades
In the Cycladic islands, kalanda are simple yet heartfelt. The carolers’ voices take center stage, often harmonizing beautifully without the accompaniment of instruments.
How To Obtain A Greek Tax ID (AFM) As An Expat Or Non-Resident In Greece
This nine-digit number, pronounced "AFIMI" in Greek, is something you’ll use regularly for tasks such as:
- Getting a Greek phone number in your name.
- Leasing a home or property.
- Logging into TAXISnet to interact with government systems.
- Filing taxes and generating tax certificates.
- Purchasing property or a car.
- Completing many other daily tasks.
- A copy of your passport.
- First and last names of your parents.
- Your home address (outside Greece) and temporary address in Greece (if applicable).
- Your foreign tax number.
- Your mobile phone number.
- An authorization form if you are appointing a tax representative to apply on your behalf.
- Liaising with the tax office and government departments, especially for those on spouse visas, Digital Nomad Visas, and Golden Visas.
- Receiving notifications from the tax office and keeping you updated.
- Opening a TAXISnet account for you.
- Assisting with property or car purchases, leasing, and other related tasks.
This content has been created in collaboration with our trusted partner Tsaks Consulting.
How To Start A Private Limited Company (IKE) In Greece: A Step-By-Step Guide
- Separate Legal Entity:
An IKE company is a completely separate legal entity, distinct from its owners. This separation is critical from a legal and liability perspective, as it allows the company to incur debts and conduct business in its own name, offering significant protection to its members. - Scope of Members:
An IKE company can have one or more members. A single-member IKE company is known as an SMPC (Single-Member Private Company). - Company Duration:
The default duration of an IKE company is 12 years. However, this can be modified through amendments to the company’s articles. Members can also vote to extend the duration beyond 12 years. - Capital Requirements:
Only 1 euro is required to establish an IKE company, making it accessible. Contributions can be made in various forms, including non-cash assets. - Limited Liability:
Members have no financial risk beyond their contribution, except in very limited cases where administrators may be personally liable for tax or social security debts.
This content has been created in collaboration with our trusted partner Tsaks Consulting.
Understanding Greek Rental Laws & Property Ownership
Renting In Greece: Your Rights & Responsibilities
Renting a property as an expat in Greece comes with specific rights and duties that protect both tenants and landlords. Here’s what you need to know:
Key Rental Laws in Greece
- Lease Agreements Are Binding:
- Greek rental agreements typically last three years unless otherwise stated.
- Verbal agreements are valid but always insist on a written contract for clarity and legal backing.
- Security Deposits:
- Landlords can request up to two months’ rent as a security deposit.
- This deposit is returned at the end of the lease, provided there’s no damage or unpaid rent.
- Eviction Rules:
- Tenants cannot be evicted arbitrarily.
- Greek law mandates a legal process for evictions, safeguarding tenant rights.
Tenant Responsibilities
- Rent Payments: Always pay your rent on time to avoid disputes.
- Property Care: Tenants are expected to maintain the property and report major repairs to the landlord.
Pro Tip: When negotiating a lease, double-check who’s responsible for utilities and maintenance fees—it’s not always clear in contracts.
Owning Property In Greece: What Expats Need To Know
Dreaming of taking the next step owning a slice of Greek history? Buying property in Greece involves some unique legal requirements for foreigners. Here’s a quick rundown:
Foreigners Can Own Property—With Conditions
- Expats from EU countries face no restrictions when buying property.
- Non-EU citizens may need special permission to purchase properties in border regions (e.g., islands near Turkey).
The Purchasing Process
- Hire a Lawyer: A Greek Lawyer can help you verify the property’s legal status and ensure there are no outstanding debts, burdening the property.
- Obtain a Greek Tax Number (AFM): This number is required for any property transaction.
- Notary Involvement: All property sales must be finalized through a notary, ensuring a legal and transparent transfer.
Taxes and Fees
- Expect to pay around 8-10% of the property’s value in taxes and fees, including transfer tax, legal fees, and notary costs.
- Property owners are also subject to annual ENFIA (property tax).
Navigating Legal Challenges As An Expat
Despite Greece’s welcoming charm, expatriates can face occasional legal hiccups. Here’s how to stay ahead of potential pitfalls:
- Understand Your Lease: Don’t sign anything you don’t fully understand—have a bilingual lawyer or translator review the terms.
- Verify Property Ownership: Before purchasing, confirm the seller has clear ownership rights and that the property is free from legal disputes.
- Keep Track of Deadlines: Rental agreements, taxes, and permits often come with strict timelines. Missing a deadline can lead to hefty fines.
Helpful Resources for Expats
- Greek Ombudsman Office: Handles disputes between landlords and tenants.
- Local Real Estate Agents: Familiar with expat-friendly properties and their legal nuances.
Why Understanding Greek Property Laws Matters
Whether you’re renting or buying, knowing your rights and responsibilities ensures a smooth experience in Greece’s real estate market. Understanding tenancy laws protects you from unfair practices, while navigating ownership regulations lets you invest with confidence.
Relocating to Greece is a dream for many, but it pays to do your homework. With the right legal guidance, you’ll enjoy the sun, sea, and history without a hitch.
FAQs
1. Can expats negotiate rental agreements in Greece?
Yes! Lease terms can often be negotiated, but always get the agreement in writing to avoid misunderstandings.
2. Are Greek property taxes high?
Not particularly, but property owners must budget for annual ENFIA taxes and one-time transfer fees during the purchase process.
You can take legal action, as Greek law requires landlords to return deposits unless there’s documented damage or unpaid rent.
For more in-depth information on expat legal matters in Greece, check out Expat Law’s Guide on Greek Rentals.
The Athens Singers

An Acropolis Museum Christmas

- When: Weekly tours (check availability)
- Where: Periodical Exhibitions Hall
- Admission: Free entry (reservations required via events.theacropolismuseum.gr)
- Extras: Audio-guided tours via QR code for an independent visit
- When: Friday, December 27, and Monday, December 30
- Time: 10:30 AM & 12:30 PM
- Ages: 6–12 years
- Cost: Free for children (with adult day admission)
- Reservations: Open December 17 via events.theacropolismuseum.gr
- When: Saturday, December 28, and Sunday, December 29
- Time: 10:30 AM & 12:30 PM
- Ages: 3–5 years
- Cost: Free for children (with adult day admission)
- Reservations: Open December 17 via events.theacropolismuseum.gr

Enjoy musical performances that bring the holiday spirit to life:
- Sunday, December 22: Students from the Pallini Experimental Music School Choir and Orchestra perform Christmas classics at 12:00 PM.
- Monday, December 23: The Cretan Dance Group performs traditional dances and carols at 12:30 PM.
- Saturday, December 28: The Air Force Band plays timeless Christmas melodies at 12:00 PM.
- Monday, December 30: Students from the Athens Music School Jazz Ensemble perform festive jazz hits at 12:00 PM.

- Reservations: Call 210 9000915

Christmas At The Maria Callas Museum
Sunday, December 15th

- Date: Sunday, December 15th
- Time: 11:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Hot Chocolate Jazz Session
Sunday, December 15th

- Niki Kokkoli (Saxophone)
- Theodoros Ziarkas (Double Bass)
- Phoebe Pechlivanidi (Piano)
- Date: Sunday, December 15th
- Time: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
- Admission: Free (Limited seating; priority will be given on a first-come, first-served basis)
Saturday, December 28th
- Date: Saturday, December 28th
- Tour Times: 11:00 AM & 12:00 PM (Limited seating; priority will be given on a first-come, first-served basis), Piano Performance: 11:00 AM - 2:30 PM
Thursdays, December 12th & 19th
- Dates: December 5th, 12th & 19th
- Time: 12:00 PM (December 5th & 12th), 12:30 PM (December 19th)
- Tour Duration: 50 minutes
- Admission Fee: €7 (for visitors aged 65+), guided tour included
- Reservations: Call 210 44 04 204
Sunday, December 27th

- Date: Sunday, December 27th
- Time: 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
- Ages: 4-8 years
- Cost: Free
- Reservations: Call 210 44 04 204 (Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-18:00)
Sunday, December 15th
- Date: Sunday, December 15th
- Time: 9:30 AM - 10:20 AM
- Ages: 8 months - 2.5 years
- Cost: €10 (for one infant and one guardian)
- Reservations: Call 210 44 04 204 (Tuesday - Friday: 10:00-18:00)
Sunday, December 22nd
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Date: Sunday, December 22nd
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Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
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Ages: 1-3 years
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Cost: Free
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Reservations: Call 210 44 04 204 (Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00-18:00)