VAT in Greece

1. What is the VAT in Greece?

The latest changes made by the Greek government regarding the VAT were made in September 2011. The standard VAT rate in Greece is 23% for the widest range of assets and services. A reduced VAT rate of 13% applies for medicine and transportation, while the previous reduced rate for food and drinks has been increased to the standard rate of 23%. Accommodation, children’s books and newspapers are subject to a super reduced VAT rate in Greece of 6.5%. Rates are different on the Greek islands too. Some exemptions apply in certain cases.

2. How can I get a VAT refund in Greece?

Greece offers VAT refunds when application is submitted. The claim can be submitted with the tax authorities’ office or via tax portal electronically. The application form needs to be accompanied by the invoices. The procedure is rather complex though and owners of the companies in Greece usually appoint a local export to deal with VAT refund in Greece. These legal representatives will only ask you for the original invoices and the tax certificate in order to get you a VAT refund in Greece.

3. How can I register for VAT in Greece?

VAT registration in Greece must begin as soon as the company’s registration is completed and the certificate obtained. VAT registration starts with the submission of a declaration with the District Tax Office. Other documents are also needed in order for the VAT registration in Greece to be completed. It is necessary to provide the registration certificate from the Chamber of Commerce, a certified copy of the articles of association, the proof of the payment of capital concentration tax and a document that certifies the administrator’s identity. All these documents are usually sufficient in order for the VAT number to be issued for the registered company.

4. How does intra-community VAT work in Greece?

Intra-community transactions in Greece require a report in order to benefit from special VAT. A special tax record must be issued before an intra-community supply of goods that is exempt from VAT. It also applies on completion of services from freelance professionals that are taxable in the state of recipient. Any price reductions on intra-community transactions and all the services that are subject to VAT in the costumer’s state must also be issued a special tax record in Greece.

BridgeWest offers company registration in Greece and additional services such as a local virtual office and accounting services.