Greece unveiled the new Personal Citizen Number (PN) during a ministerial meeting in May, along with the Launch of the New National Electronic Health Record (EHFY) Platform, a major step toward modernizing the Greek state. This will allow, for the first time, Greek citizens and residents alike to use a single identification number for all interactions with the public sector. The PN will replace existing numbers, such as the Tax ID (AFM), Social Security Number (AMKA), and ID card number. It will be given to anyone who already has an AFM or AMKA, including foreign residents.
The PN is unique and permanent, staying the same for life. It has 12 characters, including three alphanumeric parts—two of which can be chosen by the user—and the person’s AFM. New citizens’ ID cards will include the PN automatically, though it is not clear if the PN will be included in new resident permits for foreigners in the country.
Now the deadline for the issuance has been extended until November 5th, which comes with the possibility and opportunity to select the first two digits of the prefix of the Tax Identification Number (AFM). This option has been extended to give citizens/residents more time to make their selection, as outlined in the current legal framework. The third digit of the Personal Number is not chosen by the individual. Instead, it is automatically generated and is always an alphabetical character. This process has been designed to simplify the system and reduce errors. By automating part of the number, consistency is maintained across all issued PNs.
So far, a total of 1,175,800 Personal Numbers have been issued. Out of these, only 85,880 have been processed through KEP and Consular Authorities. This means that just 7.5% of all PNs have been issued in person, showing that most citizens are choosing to use digital services. The preference for online platforms has been clearly demonstrated by this data.
In addition, 270,140 new Greek national identity cards have already been printed with the Personal Number included. This shows that the integration of the PN into official documents is progressing quickly. The inclusion of the PN on identity cards is now a required step in the issuance process. Again, there is no indication that the PN will be included in new residence permits issued to foreigners living in Greece.
The Personal Number is part of a major reform. It has been introduced to help identify and fix differences in citizens’ personal data across various public registries. These differences are being highlighted by the myInfo application, which is helping to improve data accuracy. So far, 355,265 discrepancies in personal data have been found. In addition, 57,919 duplicate entries have been identified. When applying for the PN, it is advisable to confirm the correct information, and the process of correcting and matching the data is currently ongoing. This effort is helping to clean up and unify public records.
Problems have also been found in municipal registry data. A total of 5,576 issues have been detected, and 2,714 of these have already been corrected. These corrections are being made to ensure that everyone’s data is accurate and up to date.
To get the PN, users will need their Greek Taxisnet login details and a registered mobile number in the National Communication Registry. This can be done through the myInfo application found at pa.gov.gr, or by visiting Citizens’ Service Centers (KEP) and Consular Authorities if you live abroad.
Need assistance with applying for the new Greek Personal Number and other social services? Visit Archodia E-Services and Consulting.
