Customs Procedures

Understanding How Your Shipment Enters Greece

Moving your household to Greece involves more than transportation—it requires navigating customs procedures that determine how your belongings are cleared, taxed, and delivered.

These procedures can seem complex, but when handled properly, they allow many clients to import their personal belongings with significant tax advantages or even full exemption.

At Hermes International Movers, we guide our clients through this process from start to finish, ensuring that everything is prepared correctly before the shipment arrives.

The Certificate of Repatriation (Μετοικεσία)

For individuals relocating permanently to Greece, the most important concept to understand is the Certificate of Repatriation, also known as a Household Effects Certificate.

This certificate is issued by the Greek Consulate and confirms that you are transferring your primary residence to Greece. When approved, it allows you to import your personal belongings—and in many cases even a vehicle—with reduced or fully waived duties and taxes.

Who Qualifies

To qualify for this exemption, you generally must:

• Have lived outside Greece (or the EU) for at least two consecutive years
• Demonstrate that your primary residence was abroad for the majority of that time
• Be relocating to Greece on a permanent basis

“Residence” is defined as living in a location for at least 185 days per year, with personal and professional ties to that location.

This is a critical distinction—simply traveling or studying abroad may not qualify.

What You Can Import Duty-Free

If you qualify and receive the certificate, you may be able to import:

• Household goods (furniture, clothing, personal items)
• Electrical appliances (typically one of each type, with reasonable exceptions)
• Personal-use items such as computers, bicycles, and household equipment
• One vehicle (subject to conditions)

These items must be:

• For personal use only
• Not intended for resale or commercial activity
• Owned and used prior to relocation (typically at least 6 months)

Important Restrictions

Even with a certificate, certain limitations apply:

• Items cannot be sold, transferred, or rented for at least 12 months after import
• Goods must be imported within 12 months of relocation
• Vehicles must meet specific regulatory requirements
• Quantities must reflect personal use—not commercial intent

Failure to meet these conditions can result in taxes, penalties, or delays.

Required Documentation

To apply for a Certificate of Repatriation, you will need to demonstrate that you have been living abroad and are now returning permanently.

Common required documents include:

• Tax returns or income documentation (typically last 2 years)
• Lease agreements, property ownership, or proof of residence abroad
• Employment verification or business activity
• Utility bills showing ongoing residence
• Passports for all family members relocating
• Inventory list of goods being shipped

If importing a vehicle:

• Registration, insurance, and proof of ownership/use will also be required

These documents are used to establish your residency history and eligibility.

Additional Customs Requirements

Beyond the certificate, standard customs procedures still apply.

Your shipment will require:

• Bill of Lading (transport document)
• Packing list and detailed inventory
• Passport and proof of identity
• Proof of residence in Greece
• Signed declaration that goods are for personal use

Incomplete or inconsistent documentation is one of the most common causes of delays.

When Duties and Taxes Apply

If you do not qualify for a Certificate of Repatriation, your shipment will be subject to standard import rules.

This may include:

• Customs duties (typically based on item category)
• VAT (currently around 24% in Greece)
• Additional taxes for certain goods

Duties are calculated based on the declared value of your shipment, including transportation costs.

Timing and Presence Requirements

Proper timing is critical in the customs process.

• The certificate is valid for 12 months from issuance
• Shipments must be cleared within that timeframe
• The owner (or a listed family member) is often required to be present during customs clearance

Planning ahead ensures that your shipment aligns with these requirements and avoids unnecessary complications.

Why This Process Requires Experience

Greek customs procedures are detailed, documentation-heavy, and strictly enforced.

Common issues include:

• Incorrect or incomplete paperwork
• Misunderstanding eligibility requirements
• Improper classification of goods
• Timing mismatches between shipment and documentation

These issues can lead to delays, additional costs, or even denial of exemptions.

How Hermes Helps

At Hermes International Movers, we assist clients throughout this process by:

• Reviewing eligibility for repatriation benefits
• Guiding document preparation before shipment
• Coordinating with consulates and customs agents
• Ensuring shipments are properly declared and documented
• Managing the clearance process in Greece

Our goal is to ensure that everything is prepared correctly before your shipment arrives—because that is where most problems are either avoided or created.

Plan Ahead — It Makes All the Difference

Customs is not something that can be handled at the last minute.

We strongly recommend:

• Starting the process early
• Confirming eligibility before shipping
• Preparing documentation in advance
• Coordinating timing with your move

A properly planned shipment moves smoothly. An unprepared one can become complicated very quickly.

A Process That Can Work in Your Favor

When handled correctly, Greek customs procedures are not an obstacle—they are an opportunity.

With the right preparation, many clients are able to bring their belongings into Greece efficiently and with significant cost savings.

Our role is to ensure you are positioned to take full advantage of that.