Frequently Asked Questions
These answers are general information. Every insurance history is different: for your own case, send us a request and we will reply.
When can I retire in Greece?
The general rule today is retirement at 67 with at least 15 years of insurance, or at 62 with 40 years of insurance.
There are many exceptions and transitional rules (e.g. arduous and unhealthy occupations, mothers of minors, disability, rights established before 2013). The exact date can only be found by checking your own insurance history.
How many insurance stamps (days) do I need for a pension?
As a rule you need at least 4,500 days of insurance (15 years) to be entitled to a pension. A full pension, or retiring before 67, requires more.
Time in other funds (IKA, OAEE, OGA, public sector), insurance abroad and, under conditions, notional (purchased) years all count.
How is my pension amount calculated?
The main pension consists of the national pension and the contributory pension, which depends on your earnings and years of insurance. The supplementary pension and the lump sum are calculated separately.
Based on your stamps and earnings, we give you an estimate of the amount before you apply.
How long does e-EFKA take to issue a pension?
It varies with each case and the authority's workload: from a few months to considerably longer when there are several insurance funds or missing documents.
A complete, correct application from the start reduces delays a lot. We follow your file and keep you informed at every step.
Which documents do I need for a pension application?
Usually your ID, AMKA (social security number), AFM (tax number), bank IBAN and, depending on the case, certificates of previous employment, military service, civil records or medical reports.
After reviewing your file we give you an exact list for your case.
What is an insurance stamp count and why do I need one?
It is a check of your whole insurance history across all funds. It often finds missing stamps, employer errors or time that was never transferred.
Correcting them before you apply can bring your retirement forward or increase your pension.
Can I buy notional (fictitious) insurance years?
Yes, under conditions you can have time recognised (usually by paying for it), such as military service, raising children, studies or parental leave.
It is not always worth it: we calculate the cost and the benefit so you can decide.
I live abroad. Can you help me with my Greek pension?
Yes. You log in to the client portal with your mobile from any country (EU, USA, Canada, Australia), send us your documents securely and we talk in an online meeting.
Insurance periods in EU countries and in countries with a bilateral agreement with Greece (e.g. USA, Canada, Australia) may be taken into account.
Do I need to visit your office?
Not necessarily. Everything can be done online: requests and documents through the client portal, messages, and a video call when needed.
If you prefer, you can visit our offices in Missolonghi and Alimos.
Are the documents I send you safe?
Yes. Documents are stored encrypted and can only be accessed by you and our authorised staff. You log in with a one-time code sent to your mobile, and our e-mails never contain your documents.
How much do your services cost?
The first consultation is free. After reviewing your case we tell you the cost of the service you need in advance and in writing, with no hidden charges.