Athens real estate: proposed property tax hike for non-EU buyers
Greece is considering raising the property transfer tax from 3% to 15% for non-EU nationals, impacting real estate investments in Athens and the wider Attica region.
- Proposed tax changes would raise transfer taxes for non-EU buyers from 3% to 15%.
- The adjustment is expected to most heavily affect property transactions valued between 250,000 and 800,000 euros.
- The final legislation and exact implementation date have not yet been officially finalized.
This legislative update is relevant for international investors, including Israelis without EU citizenship, who are evaluating property acquisition costs in Athens.
The real estate market in Athens and the broader Attica region has experienced steady price growth alongside international interest. According to Bank of Greece data, foreign real estate investments reached 2.05 billion euros in 2025, with Israeli investors accounting for 88.2 million euros. Recent official announcements indicate that property transfer taxes for individuals who are not nationals of the European Union or the European Economic Area may increase from 3% to 15%. Including municipal taxes, the total rate is projected to reach 15.45%. EU citizens are exempt from this adjustment, which applies strictly to private individuals rather than corporate entities. The relevant bill has not yet been published, and implementation dates under consideration include January 1 or July 1, 2027. Market analysts note that until the regulatory framework is finalized, transactions may proceed with heightened caution.
Yavanet will keep updating from official sources.
