Mihin Maahan Suomalaisen Tel eläkeläisen kannattaa muuttaa??

Greece is an attractive destination for foreign retirees, especially due to its favorable taxation, as the country has a special tax regime for pension income from abroad.
Key points (situation 2025-2026):
7% flat tax: If you transfer your tax residence to Greece, pensions paid from abroad (e.g. from an EU COUNTRY) will be taxed in Greece at only a flat rate of 7%.
15-year duration: This favorable 7% tax is valid for 15 consecutive years.
Coverage: In addition to pension income, the tax often applies to other foreign income, such as rental income or interest income.
Conditions: You must be registered as a Greek tax resident and have not been a Greek tax resident for 5 of the previous 6 years. In addition, you must move from a country with which Greece has a tax treaty.

How does taxation work in practice?
Apply for status: You must apply for "Foreign Pensioner" status from the Greek tax authorities.
Tax payment: The tax is paid once a year in a lump sum by the last business day of July of each tax year.
Non-settable: This 7% tax cannot usually be set off against taxes in other countries, but is paid to Greece.
EU taxation: An EU country generally does not tax a private sector pension if you have transferred your tax residence entirely to Greece and are covered by the 7% system there (check with your tax treaty). Public sector pensions are always paid to the paying country.

Other things to note:
Medical fee: When living in Greece, local social security contributions must be taken into account.
Period of residence: Tax residency generally requires a stay of more than 183 days in Greece per year.
Spain comparison: Unlike the previously often mentioned Portugal (which had a 10% tax), Greece's 7% currently offers a very competitive rate.

Note: Tax laws are subject to change. It is highly recommended to consult an international tax expert before moving.
Greece Flat Tax: The Ultimate Guide in 2026 - Global Citizen Solutions
23.2.2026 — 7% Greece Flat Tax for Retirees The 7% tax rate in Greece applies only to foreign pension income earned by retirees who move their tax residency to Greece. For ...

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