Intrastat in Greece: What you need to know

Intrastat is a system for reporting trade statistics within the European Union. Its main purpose is to collect data on the movement of goods between EU member states. The obligation to submit Intrastat declarations applies to companies that exceed specific transaction thresholds, both for imports and exports of goods. In Greece, this system is supervised by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT).

Main institutions responsible for Intrastat

In Greece, all matters related to the Intrastat system are handled by the Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT). Entrepreneurs must submit their declarations to this authority and direct any questions related to the reporting process there. The contact details of the authority are as follows:

Hellenic Statistical Authority (ELSTAT)
Address: Piraeus 46 & Eponiton, GR‐185 10 Piraeus, Greece
Phone: +30 213 135 2000
Website: ELSTAT

Intrastat declaration thresholds in Greece

The obligation to submit Intrastat declarations arises when a business exceeds certain transaction value thresholds in the trade of goods with other EU countries. In Greece, these thresholds are as follows:

• For exports (dispatches): EUR 90,000
• For imports (arrivals): EUR 150,000

If a business exceeds these values in the current or previous year, they are required to submit Intrastat declarations starting from the month in which the threshold was reached. It is important to note that if, in the following year, the value of dispatches or arrivals does not exceed the thresholds, the business is exempt from submitting declarations for the next year.

Declaration deadlines

Intrastat declarations in Greece must be submitted monthly, with the final deadline being the 26th day of the month following the reporting period. If this day falls on a weekend or public holiday, the deadline is extended to the next business day. Therefore, it is important for businesses to closely follow the calendar and meet deadlines to avoid potential penalties.

Declaration submission process

Intrastat declarations in Greece are submitted electronically via the ELSTAT website. This requires registration and login to a dedicated platform. The process aims to make it easier for businesses to submit data and minimize the risk of errors in manual document submissions. The system is intuitive, but if businesses encounter problems, they can contact ELSTAT for technical support.

Corrective declarations

If an error is found in a submitted Intrastat declaration, the business is required to submit a corrective declaration. This correction should include the updated data and be submitted on the same platform as standard declarations. It is important that all errors are corrected promptly, as statistical data must accurately reflect actual goods movements. For errors related to previous years, corrections can be submitted in paper form or via email.

Zero declarations

If a business has not conducted any intra-EU transactions in a given month, there is no obligation to submit a “zero declaration.” This applies when there have been no dispatches or arrivals of goods during the reporting period. This is a significant simplification, allowing businesses to avoid unnecessary bureaucracy when no trade events occur.

Credit notes and corrections without goods return

In the case of issuing a credit note, for example, due to a discount, there is no need to submit a separate Intrastat declaration. Such transactions do not need to be directly reported, as there is no physical movement of goods. However, in practice, Greek authorities sometimes require the submission of corrective declarations to account for changes in the transaction value.

Penalties for late declaration submission

In Greece, penalties are imposed for late submission of Intrastat declarations or failure to submit them. The administrative fine is EUR 102.40 for each such case. Therefore, it is crucial to regularly submit declarations to avoid unnecessary costs associated with delays or oversights.

VAT rate in Greece

The standard VAT rate in Greece is 24%, making it one of the highest in Europe, after Hungary (27%), Finland (25.5%), Croatia, and Denmark (25%). Despite this high rate, Greece also applies two reduced VAT rates on selected goods and services. The 13% rate covers basic foodstuffs, non-alcoholic beverages, some agricultural and pharmaceutical products, as well as catering and restaurant services. The 6% rate applies to medicines, books, newspapers, theater tickets, and the supply of electricity, gas, and district heating. Additionally, international transport is subject to a 0% VAT rate, benefiting the transport industry.

Summary

The Intrastat system in Greece is an important tool for monitoring the movement of goods between EU countries. Businesses engaged in intra-EU trade and exceeding certain thresholds must remember the obligation to regularly submit declarations. The threshold values and deadlines are clearly defined, and the electronic submission of declarations makes the process relatively simple. However, it is crucial for businesses to meet deadlines and submit declarations in accordance with the regulations to avoid penalties.