Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis is set to make an announcement at the Thessaloniki International Fair regarding the elimination of property taxes in select major Greek areas.
This initiative specifically targets towns and villages with populations between 3,000 and 5,000. The intent is to bolster these communities, enhance national security, and tackle demographic issues.
Government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis noted that “no one will be excluded,” highlighting that citizens facing geographical or demographic challenges will receive extra assistance.
Broader Tax Relief Efforts
This initiative is likely part of a broader tax relief strategy, which aims to support families with children, providing aid of 10,000 euros (around $10,800-$54,000) annually.
Since 2020, properties on 26 small frontier islands with populations under 1,200 have already been completely exempt from property taxes.
Additionally, last year the government raised the discount for insured homes valued up to 500,000 euros (about $540,000) affected by natural disasters from 10% to 20%.
Areas Exempt from Tax
According to Greek law (Act 1892/1990 and its amendments), border areas include both land and island regions adjacent to national frontiers.
This includes:
- Epilus: Ioannina and Thesprotia (border with Albania)
- Western Macedonia: Kastoria, Florina, Kozani (north border)
- Central Macedonia: Kilkis, Serres (border with North Macedonia and Bulgaria)
- Eastern Macedonia & Thrace: Drama, Xanthi, Rhodope, Evros (border with Bulgaria and Turkey)
- Aegean Islands: Dodecanese, Samos, Chios, Lesbos, Lemnos, Samothraki, Castellorizo (a small island near Turkey)
In many cases, all municipalities situated within 20 km of the land border are officially recognized as frontier zones.
Current Exemptions
Moreover, relief from property taxes is available for:
- Families with more than three children.
- Individuals with severe disabilities (80% or more).
- Properties located in disaster-stricken areas.
- Historic and protected heritage buildings.
