Greeks who have been living abroad for at least two years can now bring their household belongings and personal vehicle ...

Greeks who have been living abroad for at least two years can now bring their household belongings and personal vehicle back to Greece without paying import duties, VAT, or registration fees, under a formal circular issued by Greece's Independent Authority for Public Revenue, known as AADE. The exemption covers furniture, electrical appliances, personal items, household equipment, and privately owned passenger vehicles that were already in use at the person's previous residence. For the vehicle specifically, the returnee must have been using it for at least six months before relocating, though they don't need to have been the original owner. To qualify, a person must prove they lived continuously outside Greece for a minimum of 24 months before moving back, and must demonstrate genuine intent to establish permanent residence in Greece. Each adult family member who meets these conditions can apply for the exemption independently, meaning a couple returning together could each claim it separately. The process requires a relocation certificate issued in the applicant's name. Tax authorities will look at a wide range of evidence to confirm the person genuinely lived abroad, including employment history, where their children attended school, banking relationships, insurance ties, and property holdings in the other country. One group the circular specifically addresses is digital nomads. AADE clarified that simply having a remote work arrangement with a foreign employer is not enough on its own. The full picture of personal and professional ties to the other country will be assessed. Not every vehicle qualifies. Older, heavily polluting cars classified under Euro 0, Euro 1, Euro 2, and Euro 3 emission standards are excluded from the exemption. #GreekDiaspora #ReturnToGreece #Greece