Policy status, reviewed 4 October 2026: The Greek government has announced a proposed increase in property transfer tax for certain residential purchases by third-country buyers. The official announcement is not, by itself, an enacted tax law. Buyers should obtain current advice before budgeting a transaction.

What the government announced

The government’s September 2026 measures summary proposes raising the transfer tax from 3% to 15% for purchases of homes by specified third-country individuals. Its description excludes commercial premises and land and identifies buyer categories that would remain outside the proposed higher rate. Citizenship, residence status and property classification therefore matter.

The same summary gives 15.45% when the municipal levy on the tax is included. Final legislation, commencement and transitional provisions need to be checked in the enacted text. Do not apply the proposed rate to an individual transaction without advice from a licensed Greek lawyer and tax adviser.

An illustration, not a quote

On a €500,000 taxable value, the difference between a 3% and a 15% rate would be €60,000 before the municipal levy and other acquisition costs. That arithmetic does not establish which rate, value or exemption would apply to a specific buyer or property.

What to check before proceeding

  • Has the measure been enacted, and what is its effective date?
  • Does the buyer fall within the scope or an exception?
  • Is the property treated as a home under the final wording?
  • What taxable value, levy and other acquisition costs apply?
  • Do transitional rules affect an existing transaction?

OSEOS can provide project and unit documentation. Independent Greek legal and tax advisers should determine how the law applies to a purchase. This article will be updated when the enacted text and its practical effect are confirmed.