Starting a Company in Greece

Greece, located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, is a member of the European Union and offers strategic advantages for entrepreneurs. With its geographic position, strong maritime sector, investment incentives, and connection to EU markets, setting up a company in Greece provides significant opportunities. With Marcaworld’s consultancy, the entire process becomes faster, safer, and legally compliant.

Advantages of Doing Business in Greece

Strategic Location

Greece’s position in the Mediterranean makes it a natural logistics hub. It provides access to EU markets and acts as a gateway to Southeast Europe and the Middle East.

Investment Incentives

The Greek government offers a wide range of incentives such as tax reductions, subsidies, and regional support programs. Energy, tourism, shipping, and agriculture are key sectors with attractive benefits.

Quality of Life

Greece’s Mediterranean lifestyle, climate, and cultural richness attract not only investors but also skilled workers. This boosts productivity and business sustainability.

Types of Companies in Greece

EPE – Limited Liability Company

Can be established by at least one shareholder. Liability is limited to capital contributions, making it suitable for SMEs.

AE – Public Limited Company

Requires a minimum capital of €25,000. Suitable for larger investments, fundraising, and public listing. Liability is limited to share capital.

OE and EE – Partnerships

Smaller-scale entities where partners are personally liable for debts. Quick to establish but involve personal risk.

Branch of a Foreign Company

Turkish or foreign companies may open a branch in Greece. This allows local operations while liability remains with the parent company.

Company Formation Process

1. Reserve a Company Name

The chosen company name must be checked and reserved at the Greek Business Registry.

2. Obtain a Tax Number

Both the founders and the company must obtain tax numbers from the local tax authority (DOY).

3. Deposit Capital and Open a Bank Account

The required share capital must be deposited into a Greek bank account, and a certificate must be obtained from the bank.

4. Draft Articles of Association Before a Notary

The company’s bylaws are prepared before a notary. They include shareholder details, management structure, and business purpose.

5. Register with the Business Registry

Once the notary submits the documents, the company is officially registered and recognized as a legal entity.

6. Register with Tax Office and Social Security

The company must register for taxes and, if employees are hired, with the Social Security Fund.

Greek Tax System

Corporate Tax

The corporate income tax rate in Greece is 22%. This is competitive compared to EU averages, with certain reductions for specific sectors and regions.

VAT

The standard VAT rate is 24%. Reduced rates apply to essential goods such as food, tourism services, and books.

Double Taxation Treaty

Greece and Turkey have signed a double taxation treaty, preventing entrepreneurs from being taxed twice on the same income.

Starting a Business in Greece with Marcaworld

Marcaworld offers complete consultancy for Turkish entrepreneurs setting up businesses in Greece. Services include:

• Selection of company type and legal advisory
• Company name reservation and tax number application
• Bank account opening and capital deposit
• Notary procedures and articles of association preparation
• Business Registry registration and tax filings
• Accounting, payroll, and annual compliance

Establishing a company in Greece is a strategic step for entrepreneurs aiming to access the European market. While procedures may seem complex, Marcaworld ensures a seamless, professional, and reliable process so that investors can focus on growth and profitability.