We will make your buying a home abroad safe, secure and trouble free. Our simple step by step, comprehensive service allows you to sit back and enjoy watching your "dream" become a reality, without the worry and stress usually incurred while buying property, especially abroad.

On arrival in Crete you will be met by a personal representative who will accompany you on a tour of the area, and familiarize you with all the opportunities available as well as showing you some of our finished properties.

Having decided on your location an appointment can be arranged for you with an English/German speaking lawyer, who will be able to give you a detailed breakdown of the financially secure property purchase process.

Buyer's Guide

  1. Can foreigners buy property in Greece?
    Yes - Greece has been in the European Union since 1983 and the restrictions imposed for security purposes on foreigners owning property were lifted in 1992 (except land in close proximity to military bases - where a certificate will be acquired from the local military General).
  2. Is the purchase of property difficult in Greece?
    No - in fact the purchase process is simpler than in the UK. In summary, having selected your property you will appoint an English speaking Greek Lawyer, (we can arrange this for you if required) to act on your behalf by giving him Power of Attorney (this is arranged through a Public Notary for a fee of approx. €50) You will than pay a 10% deposit (non-refundable should you withdraw) to secure your purchase and set the price with the vendor. Should the vendor withdraw from the sale your 10% deposit will be returned with a further 10%. Your Lawyer will obtain your local tax number on your behalf, required by law here to be able to purchase. Completion normally takes about 4-6 weeks dependent on the readiness of the property sale documentation. If you prefer you can instruct the lawyer to sign the final contract on your behalf in front of the Public Notary (Government appointed body) who approves and records the transaction at the local Land Registry offices. Alternatively, you may wish to return to Crete to sign the contract yourself. In this case, the contract is translated word by word for you. (In accordance with Greek Law)
  3. Is there Land Registry
    Yes, as mentioned in 2) above. In addition to a very precise set of deeds, which establishes your ownership of the land and hence by Greek law any property built on it thereafter, there is also now Land Registry in Greece.
  4. What are the taxes/expenses involved in property purchase?
    If you are not working, your only costs will be utilities - electricity and water. There is not Council tax and no Capital Gains Tax in Greece.
  5. What other taxes/expenses apply if I live in Greece?
    If you are not working, your only costs will be utilities - electricity and water (including public sewage if you have it). There is no council tax.
  6. What guarantees exist on new houses?
    The architect and builder are responsible in Greek law for the structure in perpetuity (any problems that are not rectified and the subject of a dispute can be resolved in court). Our building contractors additionally guarantees all fittings for one year for defects.
  7. Insurance
    We can put you in contact with a number of major European Insurance Companies.
  8. Property Management and Rental
    We can also put you in contact with a locally based English Company.
  9. Furniture
    We can also introduce you to local traditional furniture makers or help with other contacts.
  10. If I decide to buy a property how do I pay for it?
    Your appointed lawyer can make all transactions for you through a Bank account here in Greece. Payments are in stages as follows: (All our prices are fixed in Euros)
    1. 10% deposit - fixing price and holding property
    2. 30% - to complete plot purchase
    3. 30% - to commence with first construction stage
    4. 30% less € 1000 to commence with second construction stage
    5. € 1000 on completion of the house
    NB. Properties intended for Rental purposes will require an EOT license obtained from the Greek Tourist board.


Building Description

  1. EXCAVATION
    Excavation works for the foundation and the septic pit are carried out in order to prepare for foundation works.
  2. FOUNDATIONS
    Re-enforced concrete is used for the foundations, frames and floors of the building under the supervision of the engineer.
  3. WALLS
    External and internal walls will be made out of brick and then covered with three layers of plaster (external walls with structural break-two rows of bricks).
  4. ROOF
    Pitched roof with wooden frame and ceramic tiles or flat roof - depending on architect's drawings.
  5. FLOORS
    All floors will be tiles, including verandas and balconies. The cost of the tiles will be up to 9 €/m². If you should choose more expensive tiles you will cover the difference.
  6. STAIRCASE Balustrade of interior staircase will be of wood/metal.
  7. BATHROOM
    Bathroom and toilet fittings as shown in plans are standard, toilet, cistern, sink, bathroom cabinet, shower or bath. Plumbing for washing machine unless otherwise stated. Bathrooms will be tiled to the height of the doors. Hot water tank.
  8. KITCHEN
    The kitchen will include wooden cupboards - a choice of colour is available. The splash back behind the taps and along the sink as well as wall space between cabinets and countertops will be tiled. A range of countertop colours is also available for choice. Single sink and drainer fitted, plumbing for washing machine if requested can be in kitchen.
  9. DOORS - WINDOWS
    Window frames, balcony doors, shutters external will be of either wood or aluminum, internal doors of wood.
  10. PERGOLA
    AA pergola will be included if in plans.
  11. ELECTRICAL WORKS
    Electrical installation works including plugs, switches (no light fittings), aerial and telephone points, hot water tank in bathroom.
  12. HYDRAULICS / PLUMBING
    Include the connection with the local water supply, the connection with the septic tank, all the gathering pipes from the roof and verandas and all pipes under the floor tiles possibly for future central heating.
  13. PAINT
    The house will be painted white unless otherwise shown in plans.
  14. BUILDING LICENSE - NATIONAL INSURANCE
    The cost of the building and the national insurance are also included in the price of the house.


MORE USEFUL INFORMATION

For British Passport Holders

PASSPORTS

Persons possessing valid passports giving the holder’s national status as: ‘British citizen’ are permitted to enter Greece and remain for three months from their date of entry without a visa or any other formality except customs examination. If this three month period is exceeded without the permission of the Greek authorities difficulties may be experienced on trying to leave the country and prosecution for contravening the regulations may follow. Intending visitors whose passports bear different descriptions from that above should consult the nearest Greek Consulate or visa issuing post to find out if a visa is required.

Passports should be safeguarded at all times and renewed before the expiry date. British passports remain the property of Her Majesty’s Government and should not be used as collateral. Standard ten-year passports are issued by the Consular Section of the British Embassy in Athens. Application forms for renewal may be obtained from the Embassy or other British Consulates in Greece.

SPECIAL NOTES

Persons in possession of one of the passports described below who are subject to control under the Immigration Act 1971, and who are proposing to travel via Greece may find themselves refused entry into Greece unless they are in possession of an entry certificate for the United Kingdom. Similarly, passport holders who are uncertain of their position under this Act and who wish to travel overland to Greece through other countries, should consult the relevant Embassies before embarking on their journey.
  1. ‘British Dependent Territories Citizen’
  2. ‘British Overseas Citizen’
  3. ‘British Subject’
  4. ‘British Protected Person’
  5. ‘British National (Overseas)’
CUSTOMS FORMALITIES

Those coming to Greece to take up RESIDENCE should obtain a change of residence certificate which is issued by the Greek Consular authorities in the United Kingdom. This certificate contains only items which are subject to Special Consumption Tax in Greece. From 1 January 1993 EU Nationals visiting Greece may freely import and re-export personal effects and are no longer subject to any customs controls or other formalities at points of direct entry from another EU Member State. However, for cars, boats, etc. please see the following paragraph. Small quantities of flowers, bulbs and fresh fruit may be imported. Plants must be accompanied by phytosanitary certificates issued by the appropriate authority in the country of origin. Small animals may be imported as long as accompanied by a veterinary certificate issued by the MAFF.

TEMPORARY IMPORTATION OF CARS BY TOURISTS

Tourists from other EU Member States, whose cars are registered in that EU State, are free to circulate in Greece for a period of six months without customs control. The car registration document and proof of ownership of a caravan or boat is required. Travellers should at all times be able to prove to the authorities when the car was brought into Greece.

To qualify for a second period of tax free circulation: either both the car and the owner should be out of Greece for at least 185 days or while the owner is away, the vehicle can remain at a special Customs compound in Greece for the period stated. Greek road tax is payable for all additional periods of circulation. The entitlement to circulate on foreign plates is strictly personal, consequently only the wife/husband or children may use the car in addition to the owner. After the expiry of the period granted by the customs authorities, the person concerned will be required to either:
  1. re-export the car,
  2. seal it with the customs for a period of at least 6 months (but no more than 12 months) after which time, provided the owner can show that he/she has been out of Greece for at least 6 months during this time, another 6 month circulation period will be granted, or
  3. clear it through customs.
Failure to conform to the provisions of Greek Law as above may result in the Greek Customs imposing fines for each extra day after the expired period. Such fines can be very steep. Under such circumstances, the vehicle is not released to the owner unless he agrees to clear it through customs or export it from Greece. Advice on extensions, transfer or sale of tourist cars in Greece can be obtained from the Directorate for the Supervision and Control of Cars (DIPEAK) at the following address:

Directorate for the Supervision and Control of Cars (DIPEAK)
Address: Akti Kondyli 32, Piraeus 18510
Telephone: 210 4623615

PERMANENT IMPORT OF VEHICLES - CHANGE OF RESIDENCE CERTIFICATE EUROPEAN UNION NATIONALS

Those who are residents in other European Union Countries for at least three years, who decide to transfer their place of residence to Greece are exempt from VAT and Special Consumption Tax (SCT) currently levied in Greece on:
  • new and second-hand cars
  • new pleasure craft of a length exceeding 7.5m
  • new motorcycles, second-hand motorcycles of over 250cc
  • new and second-hand mobile caravans
provided that:
  1. At the time of application the applicant has not been resident in Greece for more than two years.
  2. The applicant has/had been domiciled in another member state for at least 185 days in each year of the three years prior to their initial arrival in Greece.
  3. The applicant holds a change of residence certificate issued by the Greek Consular Authorities in the EU State of previous residence. This certificate is valid for use within 12 months.
  4. The applicant owned and used the vehicle in the prior EU member state of residence for at least 6 months and that appropriate TAX and VAT has been paid in the country of origin.
  5. The applicant is in possession of a 5-year residence permit. Applicants who are not in possession of a 5-year residence permit should be aware that, usually, the relevant taxes and dues are required to be paid or a bank guarantee deposited for a sum equal to those taxes and dues, until they produce a 5-year residence permit to the appropriate customs authorities.
Within one month from the date of importation, owners of such vehicles must appear in person at the nearest Customs Authority to request exemption from payment of SCT and VAT. The owner will then be permitted to purchase special Greek registration plates. Normally the charge for such plates is equivalent to 20% of the duties payable for full Greek plates. Vehicles entering Greece are also required to undergo a test at a Vehicle Technical Control Centre (KTEO). Diesel engine vehicles are not permitted to circulate in Athens, Piraeus or Salonika. It is highly recommended that all vehicle owners consult the nearest Greek Consulate for full information prior to their departure for Greece.

A VEHICLE IMPORTED UNDER THE ABOVE REGULATION may not be transferred, leased, pawned or lent, nor its use assigned in any other manner without prior approval by the customs authorities. In the event of transfer, lease, pawning, lending or assignment of the use of such a vehicle before the lapse of one year, the total amount of tax due shall be collected.

Authoritative information on this special concession is available from the Greek Customs Authorities at:

Director of Customs - Ministry of Finance
Address: 10 Karageorgi Servias Street, Athens 10562
Telephone: 210 3375250, 210 3375725
Fax: 210 3232524

DRIVING LICENCES

A British motorist driving in Greece temporarily need not possess an International Driving Licence provided he/she holds an appropriate valid European Union Format British driving licence and passport. British motorists driving their own car MUST obtain adequate insurance for Greece from their insurance company in the UK. The Motor Insurance Bureau in Greece has a department serving foreign drivers who hold Green Cards. You may obtain information through the:

MOTOR INSURANCE BUREAU
Address: 10 Xenofondos Street (4th Floor), Athens 10557
Telephone: 21032 38455
Fax: 21032 38370

Under EC Directive 80/1263/EEC, the holder of a driving licence issued in a member state of the EU (unless the licence bears an indication that it was granted in exchange for a non-EU licence) has the right to exchange it for a licence of the new country of residence without taking a driving test. The application must be made within one year of taking up residence in a different member state; the previous licence must be surrendered to the licensing authority. EU Directive 91/439/EU (implemented in Greece on 01/01/97) states that such a change for persons holding the EU pink common-format Driving Licence is not obligatory. A Greek driving licence remains valid until the holder reaches the age of 65 years, after which an application for extension is required.

Persons hiring a car or motorcycle in Greece should look carefully into the question of adequate insurance cover. In the event of an accident the driver may be liable for payment of damages and may be held in custody pending payment. There are many motorcycle accidents in Greece, some fatal. The wearing of helmets by motorcyclists is obligatory by law.

RESIDENCE PERMITS

British passport holders wishing to stay in Greece for more than three months need to obtain a residence permit. Application MUST be made in person within three months of the date of arrival in Greece. In Athens and its suburbs application should be made to the Aliens Department Offices at:

ATHENS:
173 Alexandras Avenue
Tel: 210 6476463 and
Tel: 210 6434939 		PALLINI:
14 Athanassiou Diakou Street, Pallini
Tel: 210 6032982 		PIRAEUS:
37 Iroon Polytechniou Street
Tel: 210 4122501 ext 382 		GLYFADA:
23 Karaiskaki Street
Tel: 210 9601340

In districts outside Athens application should be made to the nearest police station. The grant of residence permits and their renewal is entirely a matter for the Greek authorities and the Embassy or Consulates cannot support applications or intervene on behalf of the applicants. Since regulations concerning residence and employment are under review, you should check with your nearest Greek Consular office in Britain for up-to-date information.

RESIDENCE PERMIT REQUIREMENTS

As from 1 January 1988 nationals of the European Union are allowed to work in Greece without work permits. However, residence permits ARE required. Employment must be found within THREE months from the date of entry and all employees should apply for a residence permit at one of the addresses listed above. Those persons wishing to set up their own business should comply with the relevant regulations in obtaining a licence to practice. In accordance to legislation such persons also need to register with the local tax office. Certain occupations directly involved with food and beverages also require a work licence issued by the Hellenic Police (e.g. bar/cafeteria or restaurant work).

The following documents will be required when applying for the issue of a residence permit:

  1. IN THE CASE OF THE WORKING PERSON
    1. The passport on which the applicant entered Greece.
    2. A statement by the applicant’s employer, duly certified by the local Labour Inspectorate, specifying nature and duration of the work to be done by the applicant.
    3. A medical certificate, as per Article 12 of Presidential Decree No. 499 of 01/12/87. The applicant should arrange for the following medical examinations to be carried out:
      1. Chest X-rays & Blood Tests
      2. Psychiatric Evaluation
      3. Drug Tracing:
      Such Medical Certificates are acceptable only if they are obtained from Greek public and/or state hospitals. All documentation including the medical certificates should be submitted directly to the Aliens’ Department or the relevant Police Station.
  2. IN THE CASE OF MEMBERS OF HIS/HER FAMILY
    1. document issued by the appropriate authority of the country of origin showing their relationship, i.e. marriage/birth certificates.
    2. that the persons in question are supported by the applicant, or live under the same roof as he/she, in that country.
    3. The documents at 1) a) and c) above.
    Every time employees change work they must report the change to the local Labour Inspectorate Office of the new employer’s area. Persons who are coming to Greece to work for THREE months only, should report this fact to the nearest Aliens Police or police station within 8 days of their date of arrival in Greece.
EMPLOYMENT

A number of employment agencies in Greece deal with enquiries made in person or by letter. Some are reliable. There are also agencies in the United Kingdom who may be able to assist in finding employment in Greece, usually as nannies and governesses. You are advised to secure a written statement (agreement) before arrival in Greece as to duties involved, hours of work, salary and arrangements for payment of fares to and from Greece. If in doubt you should seek legal advice before any contract for employment is signed. The Embassy has no authority to intervene in disputes between employers and employees.

Technically, private employment agencies cannot operate in Greece. This function is performed by the State through the Ministry of Labour regional OAED Offices. British Nationals, however, may find employment opportunities through English Language publications such as the “Athens News” and “The Herald Tribune” – Kathimerini. There are also various regional newspapers in other areas in Greece (such as “The Corfiot” in Corfu).

There is a considerable demand for the teaching of English as a foreign language and there are many opportunities for regular and part-time employment, however, prospective employees should examine contracts carefully before taking up such engagements. A Presidential Decree signed in 1997 made it possible for European Union Nationals to be generally employed in and also open Foreign Language ‘Frontistiria’. There are certain criteria for teachers and Directors of Study at Frontistiria vis-a-vis certification of basic knowledge of the Greek Language. Relevant examinations for the obtaining of such certificates are organised periodically under the auspices of the Ministry of Education.

The Embassy has no means of finding employment in Greece for British Passport holders.

Since 1 January 1981 nationals of EU countries, by virtue of Article 52 of the EC Treaty, have the right of self-establishment in Greece. This means that EU nationals may work on their own account as self-employed persons. However, in some areas, e.g. self-employed teachers, the Greek authorities may require persons to satisfy certain qualifications and requirements. Consequently anyone wishing to set up as a self-employed person in Greece should consult the Greek authorities regarding their position before doing so.

Qualified nurses wishing to take up employment in Greece should write before coming to Greece directly to: The Association of Graduate Nurses, Athens Tower, Building ‘C’, 2nd Floor, 2 Messoghion Avenue, Athens 115 27 Telephone No: 01077 02861. With their letter nurses should include full details of their qualifications and experience and mention when they would be available commence employment.

UNEMPLOYMENT BENEFIT

Persons who receive unemployment benefit in the United Kingdom and move to Greece in an effort to find work may continue to receive unemployment benefit in Greece from the local Manpower and Employment Organisation Office (OAED) for a period of THREE months. They should produce to their local OAED office form E303, which is issued by their local Benefit Agency in the United Kingdom. They must also register themselves at the same OAED office as unemployed within 7 days of signing off in the U.K. IF THE APPLICANT DOES NOT FIND WORK WITHIN THREE MONTHS HE/SHE MUST LEAVE THE COUNTRY.

MEDICAL – HOSPITAL TREATMENT IN GREECE

Where to get information: The Social Insurance Foundation (“Idrima Kinonikon Asfaliseon” known as IKA) situated on the 3rd floor at 47 Megalou Alexandrou Street, Athens 104 36, or its regional or local offices called “Ipokatastimata” or branches which are called “Parartimata”. The procedures below are those which Greek people have to follow to get treatment. Long waits for attention both in local offices and surgeries/hospitals are not unusual. If you choose to approach Greek practitioners/hospitals direct for private treatment, the Community arrangements will not apply and you will be responsible for the full cost of any treatment received. You should therefore take out sufficient private insurance to cover full costs for yourself and your family before you leave the U.K.

Medical and Dental Treatment
Upon arrival in Greece or when in need of medical attention holders of Form E111 should submit the form to their local IKA office or to the central IKA office at 47 Megalou Alexandrou Street in Athens to have it exchanged for an IKA medical/health booklet. Patients are then directed to a doctor or dentist who works for the social insurance. The Doctor or Dentist must be informed that the treatment received will be under the IKA medical scheme. Patients will not be charged. Prescriptions given under this scheme may be taken to any chemist where they are charged 25% of the cost. If necessary form E111 should be shown.

Hospital Treatment
IKA will arrange free hospital treatment. If a patient cannot get to an IKA office before going to a hospital or first aid station, he/she should ask the authorities at the hospital or station for free treatment under the IKA scheme. Form E111 must be shown if necessary. Pensioners who intend to take up residence in Greece and who are entitled to free medical treatment in the United Kingdom, also enjoy a similar entitlement in Greece. They should produce to their local IKA office form E121, which is issued by their local Department of Health Office in the United Kingdom. A person coming to look for work in Greece, who was unemployed in the U.K., is entitled to free medical treatment in Greece if he/she produces to their local IKA office form E119. This is also issued by their local Department of Health Office in the U.K. In both the above cases IKA will exchange the form for a medical booklet. If in a more remote part of the country or on a small island, there may be no IKA office within easy reach. One may have to receive and pay the full costs of private treatment. Before leaving Greece a postal application needs to be made to the nearest IKA office for a refund. Receipted bills and any other relevant documents should be enclosed. REFUNDS USUALLY COVER ONLY PART OF THE COST. INDIVIDUALS PAY THE BALANCE THEMSELVES.

CHEQUES

Normally banks in Greece will not cash a private cheque drawn on a bank in Greece or abroad, unless the drawer can produce a Eurocheque card. Addresses of British Banks are given on page 13.

TRANSFER OF CAPITAL

It is an offence to send cash, cheques etc. by mail from Greece to another country without obtaining the prior permission of the Greek authorities. Currency controls affecting a large number of currency transactions have recently been lifted. It should be noted that at all times EU Nationals who wish to transfer funds abroad will be required by their commercial bank to prove that the transaction falls within permitted categories.

Those interested should seek advice from a local bank or alternatively from the relevant section of the Bank of Greece in Athens. Importation of foreign exchange in any form is not limited. However a person who is carrying more than the total equivalent of 10,000 EURO when entering the country, which he/she intends to take out again, should declare the amount on arrival.

Travellers leaving Greece are permitted to export:

  1. Amounts up to € 10,000 EURO freely.
  2. Amounts over € 10,000 EURO provided a declaration is submitted on departure to the Customs Authorities which will include (for residents) a Greek Tax Office certificate that taxes have been paid in Greece, or (for tourists) evidence that this amount had been declared on arrival. NOTE: For amounts over € 10,000 EURO further arrangements from a commercial bank may be required.
INCOME TAX

Income tax is payable by all persons having income arising in Greece, regardless of nationality or place of residence. The total income acquired in the immediately preceding financial year is subject to income tax after the deduction of allowances and exemptions provided for. There is a bilateral taxation convention between the United Kingdom and Greece whose object is to avoid double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect of taxes on income, however, according to the Convention, persons are obliged to submit their tax declaration to the local tax authorities IN THEIR COUNTRY OF RESIDENCE irrespective of where his/her income arises. For example: a pensioner living in Greece on his/her U.K. pension must submit a declaration to the local Greek Tax Office. The Ministry of Finance will then, upon request, issue certificate for use with the UK Tax Authorities stating that the pensioner in question has been taxed in Greece. More information can be obtained from the Board of Inland Revenue, Somerset House, London S.W.2, and locally from the Greek taxation authorities or Ministry of Finance.

CAMPING AND HOSTELS

There are a number of caravan and camping sites in Greece, on the mainland and on the islands. There are two youth hostels, a YWCA and a YMCA in Athens, the addresses are on page 13. Camping in open areas is prohibited without prior police permission.

MAIL

Neither the Embassy nor British Consular Posts elsewhere in Greece accept private mail for collection, any mail so received is passed to the Athens Poste Restante facilities and/or its offices throughout Greece. Some travel agents will hold mail for travellers. HM Government accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage to mail sent to travellers care of British Embassies or Consulates.

ACCOMMODATION

Hotel rooms are available in most areas of Greece and rented accommodation can be found in Athens. Estate agents in Athens can help find accommodation to rent. A fee is payable by the lessee. Foreigners may purchase property in Greece with the exception of certain designated areas. The best person to approach for advice and assistance on these subjects is a lawyer. The Embassy has lists of Greek lawyers and Estate Agents who correspond in English. The Embassy cannot advise on property purchase.

REGISTRATION

Travellers should keep their relations or friends informed of their whereabouts and their plans in case they are needed in an emergency. Those staying in Greece for over three months may register at the Embassy or nearest British Consulate and in January of each year thereafter. They should keep the Consulate informed of any change of address and notify it when they leave Greece permanently. The Embassy cannot assist in tracing missing persons except in cases of minors.

EDUCATION

St. Catherine’s British Embassy School is situated at Kondoyanni and 73 Sofokli Venizelou Streets, Lykovryssi, Kifissia (Tel: 01028 29750, Fax: 01028 26415, e-mail: stcats@hol.gr ) offers a modified version of the British National Curriculum to children up to Grade 8. However, with effect from the school year beginning September 2000 St. Catherine’s will be taking children up to Grade 10. Priority is given to the applications of British and Commonwealth children. Other nationals may be offered places provided their knowledge of English and prior schooling is sufficient for his/her age group.

The school year runs from early September to mid-June with breaks at Christmas and Easter. A substantial number of extra-curricular activities, including Clubs, Brownies, Guides, dance, computer, music and sports are available.

The Campion School is situated at Agias Ioulianis, Pallini 153 44 (Tel No: 210 6071700, Fax: 210 6071750, web: www.campion.edu.gr), is an international co-educational day school for pupils up to nineteen years of age. There is also a second smaller junior school in Glyfada. The curriculum is based on that of English Secondary schools, leading to GCSE ‘O’ and ‘A’ levels. Information and application forms may be obtained from the Admissions Officer.

Other English Language Schools in Athens:

Byron College School
7 Filolaou Street, Gargitos, Gerakas, Athens 15344
Tel: 21060 47722-5
Fax: 21060 48542
e-mail: byroncol@otenet.gr
web: www.byroncollege.gr

Tasis Hellenic International
Xenias & Artemidos, Kefalari, Athens 14562
Tel: 21062 33888
Fax: 21062 33160
e-mail: info@tasis.edu.gr

St. Lawrence College
2 Delta Street, Kato Hellenikon, Athens 16777
Tel: 21089 44602/21089 43251
Tel: 21089 40696/21089 45631
e-mail: lawrence@hol.gr

American Community Schools
Agias Paraskevis 129 & Kazantzaki, Ano Halandri, Athens 15234

Tel: 21063 93200
Fax: 21063 90051
web: www.acs.gr

Green Hill International School
18 Venezuelas Street, Ano Glyfada, Athens 16674
Tel: 21096 41782/21096 46671
Fax: 21096 23483
e-mail: ghisatgr@compulink.gr



PENFRIENDS

There is no organisation in Greece which undertakes to find penfriends but schools will sometimes arrange for friends from amongst their pupils. The addresses for two Greek Colleges are given on page 11.

BRITISH ASSOCIATIONS

British Council Reading Room
Filikis Etairias 17, Kolonaki Square, Athens 10673
Tel: 21036 92333

British Hellenic Chamber of Commerce
25 Vas. Sofias Street, Athens 10674
Tel: 21072 10360/21072 10493

CHURCHES

St. Paul’s Anglican Church
27 Filellinon Street, Athens 10557
Tel: 21032 34790
Holy Communion every Sunday at 10.15 a.m. The Chaplain is also Chaplain to Her Majesty’s Ambassador and can also be contacted at his home on Tel: 21072 14906.

St. Andrew’s (International and non-denominational)
66 Sina Street, Athens 10672
Tel: 21064 52583
Morning service at 11.15 a.m. every Sunday with Holy Communion the first Sunday of every month. Sunday services are also held at Kifissia.

Hellenic International Christian Church (Pentecostal)
18 Tsaldari Street, Kifissia 14561
Tel: 21085 40513 and 21085 40475
Scripture Union Headquarters. Meets at 11.00 a.m. every Sunday

St. Dennis Roman Catholic Church
24 Panepistimiou (a.k.a El. Venizelou) Avenue & Omirou Corner, Athens 10672
Tel: 21036 23603
Services in English every Sunday at 6.00 p.m.

Many other churches are available in Athens and in other parts of Greece.

USEFUL ORGANISATIONS & ADDRESSES

The above notes are brief and intended for general guidance. Intending travellers wishing to have more details and information on specific points may find the following addresses useful:

Hellenic Organisations
Hellenic Tourism Organisation (EOT - London)
4 Conduit Street, London W1R ODJ
Tel: +020 7734 5997

Embassy of the Hellenic Republic
1A Holland Park, London W11 3TP
Tel: +020 7221 6467

National Tourism Organisation (EOT – Athens)
4 Amerikis Street, Athens 10564
Tel: 21033 10565

Removal Companies
Orphee Beinoglou
Syngrou & Evripidou 2A, Kallithea, Athens 176 74
Tel: 21094 31955, 21094 21962

Baxevanides
44 Syngrou Avenue, Athens 11742
Tel: 21092 32146, 21092 39483
Fax: 21092 14513

Penfriends
American College of Athens
Gravias Street, Aghia Paraskevi, Athens 15300

Athens College
Psychiko, Athens 15400

Teachers’ Certificates
General Education Directorate
Ministry of Education
15 Mitropoleos Street, Athens 10557
Tel: 210323 0461, 210323 0861

Athens Youth Hostels
YMCA (XAN)
Acadimias & Omirou Streets, Athens
Tel: 21036 26970

YWCA (XEN)
11 Amerikis Street, Athens 10672
Tel: 21036 24291

PANGRATION
75 Damareos Street, Pangrati, Athens 11633
Tel: 21075 19530
Fax: 21075 10616

ATHENS INTERNATIONAL
16 Victor Hugo Street, Athens 10438
Tel: 21052 34170
Fax: 21052 34015

Details of official youth hostels throughout Greece can be obtained from the Hellenic Youth Hostel Organisation (Tel: 210 7519530 & Fax: 210 7510616)

English Newspapers
Athens News
3 Christou Lada Street, Athens 10237
Tel: 21033 33555
Fax: 21032 31384

The Herald Tribune (Kathimerini)
Eth.Makariou & Dim. Falireos 2, Neo Faliro 18547
Tel: 21048 08000
Fax: 21048 08255

British Banks
ANZ Grindlays Bank Ltd
7 Merlin Street, Athens 10671
Tel: 21036 24601

HSBC
109-111 Messogion Avenue, Athens 11526
Tel: 21069 60000

Royal Bank of Scotland
61 Akti Miaouli Street, Piraeus 18536
Tel: 21045 96500

BRITISH CONSULATES IN GREECE
British Consulate
2 Alexandras Avenue & 1 Menekrates Street, Corfu 49100
Tel: 2661-030055, 023457
Fax: 2661-037995

Honorary British Consulate
Pavlou Mela 3, Rhodes 85100
Tel: 2241-027247
Fax: 2241-022615

British Consulate
Papa-Alexandrou 16, Heraklion, Crete 71202
Tel: 281-0224012
Fax: 281-0243935

Honorary British Consulate
8th Floor, Venizelou 8, Eleftheria Square
P O Box 10332, Thessaloniki 54110
Tel: 231-0278006
Fax: 231-0283868

Honorary British Vice Consulate
Annetas Laoumtzi 8, Kos 85300
Tel: 2242-021549
Tel: 2242-026203
Fax: 2242-025948

Honorary British Vice Consulate
Akti Petrou Ralli 8, Ermoupolis, Syros 84100
Tel: 2281-082232, 088922
Fax: 2281-083293

Honorary British Vice Consulate
Votsi 2, Patras 26221
Tel: 261-0277329
Fax: 261-0225334

Honorary British Vice Consulate
5 Foskolos Street, Zakynthos 29100
Tel: 2695-022906, 048030, 045386
Fax: 2695-023769



DO’s AND DON’Ts IN GREECE

  1. BRING SUFFICIENT FUNDS with you for your stay and your return. Bank transfers take time especially to the Greek islands. If you miss your return charter flight you may need to buy another ticket ‘or pay a surcharge’.
  2. HOLIDAY INSURANCE – DO bring medical form E111 available from your local Post Office.
  3. HIRING A VEHICLE, BOAT OR MOPED? - Do check beforehand: is it roadworthy or seaworthy? Is there proper insurance cover? Do wear a helmet when on a moped and drive carefully – an accident can ruin your holiday.
  4. SEXUAL ASSUALTS - Women should not walk home alone at night, nor should they accept lifts from strangers or casual acquaintances.
  5. PERSONAL SECURITY - Do take care when visiting well-known historical sites – they are favoured haunts of bag-snatchers and muggers.
  6. DON’T GET INVOLVED WITH DRUGS - Penalties are severe – sentences range from 10 years to LIFE imprisonment for trafficking. Prescriptive drugs for personal use may not be permitted or may require an import permit.
  7. GREECE HAS UNEMPLOYMENT - Do not expect to find work easily. A good knowledge of Greek is essential for most jobs. Fruit picking opportunities are limited.
  8. DO RESPECT CUSTOMS REGULATIONS - Contraband is a serious offence and carries heavy prison sentences. Vehicles, boats and aircraft must be taken out of Greece by you within specified time limits.
  9. DO RESPECT THE GREEK LAWS - Drunken and violent tourists resisting arrest have been given heavy prison sentences. The British Consulates cannot obtain your release.
  10. TOO MUCH SUN – especially if mixed with alcohol – can result in dehydration and lead to serious health problems. DO take care.

IN CONCLUSION PLEASE REMEMBER THAT…

  1. Tourists are STRONGLY advised to take out medical insurance to cover their stay in Greece before leaving Britain. However, many policies include clauses which exempt responsibility in the case of injury or death caused by moped accidents.
  2. IT IS AN OFFENCE to pick up, or to attempt to carry away any item, no matter how small or apparently worthless, which could be described as an antiquity. It is also an offence to dive for, or to photograph antiquities in Greek territorial waters.
  3. A law introduced in August 1987 provides very SEVERE SENTENCES FOR DRUG OFFENCES. For example, possession of even a small quantity of narcotics is punishable by a prison sentence of up to 15 years and a very high fine. Other offences carry prison sentences of up to 20 years as well as very high fines. Anyone convicted of causing the use of narcotic substances by individuals below the age of 18 years may be imprisoned for life and face an extremely high fine. Under this law over 100 substances are classified as narcotics. The possession, trafficking or use of the following non prescriptive drugs is prohibited: Hashish, Marijuana, Heroin, various Hallucinogens such as: LSD, STF, Mescaline and except by permission of the Greek authorities the following prescriptive drugs: Cocaine, Codeine, Opium, Morphine, Demerol, Methadone, all synthetic narcotics, opium derivatives, amphetamines. Persons visiting Greece in possession of these prescriptive drugs should contact the nearest Greek Consulate before they travel.
  4. NUDISM is not an offence in itself, but British visitors have been prosecuted by private persons laying a charge with the police under the law dealing with offences against public morals/decency. The courts do not accept ignorance of the law as an excuse.
Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of these notes but:
  1. this leaflet is only a guide
  2. it is not exhaustive
  3. many situations will require professional legal advice
  4. the Embassy cannot give legal advice but can provide a list of English speaking lawyers.
The Embassy cannot be held responsible for any errors or wrong information.

British Embassy Athens
1 Ploutarchou Street, 10675 Athens
Consular Section
Telephone (0030) 210 7272600
Facsimile (0030) 210 7272720 		 
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