Can You Get an AFM in Greece Without a Tax Representative?
Yes — in many cases, you can get an AFM in Greece without appointing a tax representative. This is one of the biggest points of confusion for non-residents, because many people still assume that living abroad automatically means they must appoint someone in Greece. Current AADE guidance says otherwise: the appointment of a tax representative is optional, and AADE’s Registry Procedures Guide also states that for taxpayers who do not wish to appoint one, the KEFODE of Attica is designated as the competent authority.
That matters a lot, because it changes the whole mindset of the application. The real question is not “Do I have no choice?” but rather “What is the best route for my case?” If you want to avoid extra representative paperwork, that route often exists. And at AFM Greece, this is exactly what we propose: helping non-residents apply for their AFM with the simplest route possible, without pushing unnecessary tax-representative formalities where they are not required.
The quick answer below reflects the current AADE position on optional tax representatives, self-submission, and identification routes.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can often get an AFM in Greece without a tax representative.
- AADE states that appointing a tax representative is optional
- You can submit the AFM application electronically yourself
- If you apply yourself, you can usually identify yourself by video call or in person
- If you do not appoint a tax representative, the competent authority is generally the KEFODE of Attica
- You still need the correct supporting documents for your case
- A tax representative may still be useful in some situations, but it is not always mandatory
For many non-residents, the easiest option is to use AFM Greece so the application is handled clearly and correctly, without unnecessary representative paperwork.
The comparison below is built around the official AADE framework: self-submission, optional tax representative, and representative or third-party filing routes.
| Option | Best for | What you handle yourself | Main drawback | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apply yourself without a tax representative | Applicants who want the simplest legal route with no extra representative paperwork | The application, identification, document preparation, and follow-up | You still need to understand the process and avoid mistakes | Good official route, but not always the easiest in practice |
| Appoint a tax representative | Applicants who want someone in Greece formally involved | Representative appointment paperwork and related coordination | Extra formalities, signatures, and possible apostille/translation requirements | Useful in some cases, but not always necessary |
| Use AFM Greece | Non-residents who want the simplest viable route without unnecessary admin friction | Usually just providing the requested details and documents | Paid service | Best overall option for most applicants abroad |
This comparison is built around the current official framework: electronic AFM filing, possible use of a legal or tax representative, and the supporting documents AADE requires when a representative is appointed.
If you want to avoid confusion, missing documents, and unnecessary delays, AFM Greece can guide you through the process from start to finish. We help non-residents understand exactly what is needed for their AFM application, so you can move forward with more clarity and less stress.
Is a tax representative mandatory for an AFM in Greece?
No, not always.
AADE’s myAADElive FAQ says that the declaration of a tax representative is optional as long as the taxpayer declares that they accept notifications from the Tax Administration at the contact details they have declared. The Registry Procedures Guide says the same thing in even more direct language: for tax residents abroad, “the appointment of a tax representative is optional.”
This is one of the most useful official clarifications for non-residents. It means that the old assumption that “you must always appoint someone in Greece” is too simplistic. In many cases, you can move forward without that extra layer of paperwork.
What happens if you do not appoint a tax representative?
AADE’s Registry Procedures Guide states that for taxpayers who do not wish to appoint a tax representative, the KEFODE of Attica is designated as the competent authority. In the same section, AADE explains that the interested person can submit the request electronically through the special myAADE application and that, if the application is submitted by the interested person personally, identification can be completed through a scheduled myAADElive appointment, direct video call with the first available representative, or physical presence at a tax office or service office.
So the practical takeaway is clear: not appointing a tax representative does not block the AFM process. There is an official route for that scenario.
Can you submit the AFM application yourself?
Yes.
AADE’s Registry Procedures Guide states that the person concerned submits the request exclusively electronically through the special application on the myAADE portal and can access it freely. The Useful Tax Guide for Greeks Abroad and Non-Residents also shows the same logic: the interested person can act for themselves, while legal representatives, tax representatives, or authorized third parties use TAXISnet credentials for their own routes.
That is an important distinction. You do not need to confuse “a representative route exists” with “a representative route is your only route.” The official framework already provides a self-submission path.
What documents do you usually need if you apply without a tax representative?
The core document is usually your identification document. AADE lists accepted documents such as a passport, EU ID card, or other recognized identification depending on the person’s status. The same FAQ lists additional supporting documents on a case-by-case basis, such as marriage certificates, parental-care documents, or court decisions where relevant.
The key point is that if you are not appointing a tax representative, you remove one whole category of paperwork: the appointment document and the representative’s acceptance declaration. Those are only relevant when a tax representative is actually being appointed.
That is exactly why many applicants prefer the non-representative route when it is available. Fewer formalities often means fewer chances to make avoidable mistakes.
When might someone still choose to appoint a tax representative?
A tax representative can still be useful in some cases. AADE’s official pages clearly allow the AFM application to be submitted by a legal representative, tax representative, or authorized third party, and when a tax representative is appointed, specific supporting documents are required, including the appointment document and the representative’s declaration of acceptance.
So the question is not whether a tax representative is ever useful. Of course one can be. The real question is whether your case actually needs that extra layer. If it does not, many applicants would rather avoid extra declarations, signature authentication, apostille requirements, and translation issues.
If a tax representative is not mandatory, why do people still get confused?
Because the Greek system offers several possible routes at once.
AADE’s material refers to the interested person, legal representative, tax representative, and authorized third party, all within the same broader AFM framework. That can make applicants think all those roles are required together, when in reality they are alternative routes depending on the case.
This is exactly where AFM Greece adds value. We help non-residents understand which route is actually appropriate, and in many straightforward cases that means not burdening the application with unnecessary tax-representative paperwork. That is precisely what we propose: a smoother AFM process, with only the formalities that your case genuinely requires.
Does applying without a tax representative mean you are completely on your own?
Officially, no tax representative may be required. Practically, many people still prefer guidance.
The self-submission route exists, but the applicant still needs to choose the correct identification route, prepare the correct supporting documents, and avoid mismatches or unnecessary delays. AADE’s process is digital and workable, but it is still administrative.
That is why the most attractive option for many non-residents is not “do everything totally alone” and not “appoint a representative no matter what,” but rather: use AFM Greece to manage the process properly without unnecessary tax-representative formalities. That is exactly the middle ground many applicants are looking for.
Final word
Yes, you can get an AFM in Greece without a tax representative.
AADE’s own guidance says that appointing a tax representative is optional, and the Registry Procedures Guide expressly states that if a taxpayer does not wish to appoint one, the KEFODE of Attica is the competent authority. The interested person can submit the request electronically and complete identification through the routes provided by AADE, including myAADElive video options.
For many non-residents, that is excellent news — because it means the AFM process does not always need extra representative paperwork. And for applicants who want that route handled cleanly, this is exactly what AFM Greece offers: a guided application process without adding complexity where it is not needed.
The FAQ below follows the same current AADE framework on optional tax representatives, self-submission, competent authority, and representative-based alternatives.
Ready to apply for your Greek AFM? Let AFM Greece help you handle the process with clear guidance and the right documents from the start. Submit your request today and take the next step with confidence.
FAQ
Can I get an AFM in Greece without a tax representative?
Yes. In many cases, AADE allows the AFM application to be made without appointing a tax representative.
Is a tax representative mandatory for non-residents?
No, not always. AADE states that appointing a tax representative is optional in the relevant process.
Who is the competent authority if I do not appoint a tax representative?
According to AADE’s Registry Procedures Guide, the KEFODE of Attica is designated as competent for taxpayers who do not wish to appoint a tax representative.
Can I submit the AFM application myself?
Yes. The official myAADE application allows the interested person to submit the request personally.
Can I identify myself by video call if I apply without a tax representative?
Yes. AADE provides video-based identification routes for applicants submitting their own AFM request.
Do I still need documents if I do not appoint a tax representative?
Yes. You still need the identification and case-specific supporting documents relevant to your application.
Why would someone still appoint a tax representative?
Some applicants prefer local formal support, but it is not always necessary for the AFM process itself.
What is the easiest option for most non-residents?
For many applicants abroad, the easiest option is to use AFM Greece so the AFM process is handled clearly, correctly, and without unnecessary tax-representative paperwork.
