Are you an expat navigating the banking system in Greece? You’re in for some great news! Significant changes have been made to banking fees, with six common charges either reduced or eliminated altogether. Whether you’re paying bills, managing transactions, or withdrawing cash, these updates make managing a Greek bank account easier—and more affordable.
However, not all fees are gone—especially when it comes to ATM withdrawals in urban areas. Keep reading to find out the details and how to make the most of your Greek bank account.
The Updated List of Reduced or Eliminated Banking Fees
These changes, initiated by government pressure and banking reforms, aim to lower financial burdens and make banking more transparent.

Breakdown of the Changes
1. Bill Payments are Now Free
Paying bills like utilities or phone services through your Greek bank account previously cost €0.60 per payment. Now, these payments are completely free—whether you make them online, through a mobile app, or at the branch.
2. Reduced Fees for Money Transfers
Sending or receiving money (up to €5,000) between different banks now costs just €0.50 per transaction, compared to the previous range of €2.50–€5.00. This is a significant reduction that benefits expats transferring funds between Greek accounts or within the EU.
3. Free Prepaid Card Top-Ups
Prepaid card users will love this: top-ups for amounts up to €100 are now free. Previously, this service incurred a charge of €1.00, which adds up quickly if you use prepaid cards regularly for online purchases or travel.
4. No ATM Withdrawal Fees in Remote Areas
Living or traveling in rural Greece? Withdrawing cash from third-party ATMs used to cost €0–€3.00, depending on the location. Now, these fees are completely abolished for remote or less accessible areas.
5. Free Balance Inquiries at Third-Party ATMs
Checking your account balance at another bank’s ATM used to cost €0.20 per inquiry, but that fee is no longer in effect. This allows you to stay updated on your finances without incurring extra charges.
6. Reduced POS Fees for Small Transactions
For small purchases at card terminals (POS systems), the discount threshold has been raised. Previously, fees were reduced for transactions below €10, but now the limit has been increased to €20, encouraging more cashless payments.
What These Changes Mean for Expats with Greek Bank Accounts
1. Cost Savings on Everyday Transactions
These fee reductions make managing your Greek bank account more affordable. From bill payments to cash withdrawals, these changes translate to significant savings—especially for expats adjusting to a new financial system.
2. Easier Access to Banking in Rural Areas
For expats living or traveling in Greece’s remote areas, the elimination of third-party ATM withdrawal fees ensures you have access to cash without extra costs.
3. Simpler and Cheaper Card Usage
The removal of prepaid card fees and the increase in the POS transaction limit mean you can use your debit, credit, or prepaid cards more freely without worrying about hidden costs.
Practical Tips for Expats Managing a Greek Bank Account
1. Automate Bill Payments
With bill payment fees abolished, consider setting up standing orders through your Greek bank account. This ensures timely payments for rent, utilities, or subscriptions—without any additional costs.
2. Use Online and Mobile Banking
Greek banks offer mobile apps and online platforms that are now more cost-effective to use. Most of these apps support English, making them perfect for expats. Use them to transfer money, load prepaid cards, or manage your account balance without visiting a branch.
3. Stick to Your Bank’s ATMs in Urban Areas
To avoid third-party ATM fees in cities, locate your bank’s nearest ATM using its mobile app or website.
4. Explore Remote ATM Options
Take full advantage of free ATM withdrawals in remote areas. If you’re traveling to rural parts of Greece, look for third-party ATMs without worrying about extra costs.
FAQs About Greek Bank Accounts and Fee Reductions
1. Do these fee reductions apply to all Greek banks?
Yes, these changes apply across all major Greek banks, including Alpha Bank, Piraeus Bank, Eurobank, and the National Bank of Greece.
2. Are ATM withdrawals free everywhere in Greece?
No. While ATM withdrawals from third-party banks in remote areas are now free, withdrawals in urban areas still incur the usual fees (typically €2.50–€3.50 per transaction).
3. How do I benefit from the reduced POS fees?
The threshold for reduced POS charges has been increased from €10 to €20, making it more affordable to use cards for small purchases.
4. Can I use any Greek bank account for free bill payments?
Yes, the elimination of bill payment fees applies universally to all Greek banks, regardless of the account type.
The recent reforms in Greek banking fees are a welcome change for expats and locals alike. While six major fees have been reduced or eliminated, it’s important to note that some charges—like urban ATM withdrawal fees—remain unchanged.
To make the most of these changes:
Plan your withdrawals in urban areas to avoid third-party ATM fees.
Automate bill payments to save time and money.
Use digital banking tools for convenience.
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