Your documents and numbers in Greece

While you are an asylum seeker

1. International protection applicant card

   Given after full registration. It proves you can stay in Greece during the procedure. Often valid for 1 year, renewable.

2. PAAYPA — health and social security

   A temporary number printed on your card. It gives access to free public health care and prescribed medicines.

3. AFM — tax number

   Given to adults at full registration. Needed to work, open a bank account or rent a home.

4. AMA — insurance number (to work)

   Book an EFKA appointment on 1555. Bring your card, AFM, PAAYPA and the employer’s recruitment statement.

After a positive decision

1. Residence permit

   With refugee status or subsidiary protection, you apply for a residence permit. Keep it valid and renew it on time.

2. AMKA — social security number

   Book an EFKA appointment with your permit, AFM, proof of address and recruitment statement. Your PAAYPA is switched off one month after you receive your residence permit: apply for AMKA quickly.

3. AFM if you do not have one

   Apply online on the AADE website with your permit and proof of address, then confirm your identity at a tax office or by video call (myAADElive).

4. Travel document

   Protected people can apply for a travel document. It lets you travel, but not settle or work in another EU country.

Other useful steps

• Birth of a child: register it at the registry office (lixiarcheio) within 10 days. After that a fine applies (€100 between day 11 and day 100).
• Bank account: usually your card or permit, proof of address, AFM, a phone number in your name and sometimes an employer’s attestation.
• SIM card: in Greece a SIM card must be registered in your name with an ID document.
• KEP: citizen service centres give copies and certify signatures.

• Applying for asylum →
• Health →
• Work & training →
• Housing & daily life →