Banking and moving money to Greece
Where to open an account, how to move money from Israel without it getting frozen, and what you need to report.
✓ Checked against the sources: October 2026⚠️ This isn't financial, tax or legal advice. Before moving large sums or investing, talk to a professional.
Opening an account
Many people start with an online account in the first days, then open an account at a local bank for the rental contract and salary. Some landlords and employers ask for a Greek IBAN (starting with GR).
- Documents usually requested: passport, tax number (AFM), proof of address and proof of income.
- The bank must check you ("know your customer") under anti-money-laundering law.
- Large traditional banks: National Bank of Greece, Eurobank, Piraeus Bank, Alpha Bank. Online options: Revolut, Wise.
- Before opening, you can check that the company is on the Bank of Greece lists of supervised institutions.
Source: Bank of Greece: supervised institutions · Hellenic Anti Money Laundering Authority
Moving money from Israel without surprises
- Prepare proof of where the money comes from: a flat sale, savings, inheritance or salaries. Banks in both countries must check it.
- Use a bank or a licensed transfer service. In Greece: the Bank of Greece lists. In Israel: the Bank of Israel.
- For a large transfer, tell the receiving bank in advance and send the documents. That prevents a freeze during the check.
Source: Hellenic Anti Money Laundering Authority · Israel Money Laundering Prohibition Authority · Bank of Greece: supervised institutions · Bank of Israel
🔒 3 more sections in this guide
- 💶 Cash
- 🚩 Scams
- 📈 An investment account with a foreign broker
The rest of this guide is for signed-in users. Signing up is free, with just your email.