Best Corporate & Commercial Lawyers in Santorini

1. About Corporate & Commercial Law in Santorini, Greece

Santorini operates within the Greek legal framework, so Corporate & Commercial Law here governs company formation, governance, contracting, financing, and the sale or purchase of businesses on the island. Businesses in Santorini often involve tourism, hospitality, property management, and retail, all of which require careful compliance with Greek corporate rules. Local practice emphasizes clear contracts, accurate financial reporting, and timely licensing with competent legal oversight.

Key aspects include choosing the right business structure, drafting and negotiating commercial agreements, and ensuring filings with the General Electronic Registry of Enterprises (GEMI) and the Greek tax authorities. Given the seasonal nature of Santorini's economy, contracts with suppliers, employees, and municipalities frequently hinge on precise terms and regulatory compliance. Engaging a qualified corporate and commercial lawyer helps manage risk, navigate local permits, and coordinate cross-border transactions when needed.

Because Santorini is part of Greece, national rules apply, but specific local permitting and licensing processes can affect hotel-keepers, restaurateurs, and real estate investors. A local法律 counsel familiar with Santorini’s regulatory environment can streamline registrations, lease negotiations, and compliance reviews. This guide provides practical insights and steps tailored to Santorini residents and business owners.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Starting a hotel or guesthouse on Santorini requires choosing a business form, registering with GEMI, and securing local licenses from the municipality. A lawyer helps draft articles of association, complete registrations, and align licensing with zoning and environmental requirements.
• Buying or selling a Santorini business such as a tavern, villa, or tour operator involves due diligence, asset and share transfers, and contract negotiation. An attorney coordinates title checks, permits, transfer of licenses, and post-closing adjustments.
• Negotiating commercial leases for a cliff-top restaurant or shop demands precise lease terms, renewal options, and compliance with local planning rules. A lawyer reviews rent, security deposits, and termination rights to avoid future disputes.
• Drafting supplier, distribution, and franchise agreements for local suppliers or franchised concepts requires clear terms on delivery, payment, and dispute resolution. An attorney helps tailor contracts to reflect Santorini's seasonal demand and payment cycles.
• Raising capital or restructuring a Greek company to fund growth or adapt to seasonal fluctuations involves equity issuance, shareholder agreements, and compliance with corporate governance standards. A lawyer coordinates documentation and regulatory filings.

3. Local Laws Overview

Greece relies on a combination of foundational national laws and EU directives for Corporate & Commercial matters. On Santorini, attorneys must consider both the general framework and island-specific licensing and permitting requirements. The following laws and regulations are central to most corporate activities here.

• Law 2190/1920 on Anonymous Companies and Limited Liability Companies - foundational statute governing formation, governance, and the rights and obligations of shareholders for common corporate forms in Greece. This law remains the backbone of corporate structure and corporate governance, with frequent amendments over the decades to adapt to EU standards. Effective since 1920 and continuously updated.
• Law 4172/2013, the Greek Income Tax Code (CIT) - establishes corporate taxation rules for legal entities, including calculation of taxable income and the applicable CIT rate. The rate has been maintained at around 22 percent in recent years, subject to annual updates in line with Greek tax policy. Active since 2013, with ongoing revisions.
• Directive 2013/34/EU on annual accounts and consolidated accounts - European Union framework for reporting requirements, which Greece has transposed into domestic law through subsequent regulations and implementing acts. This directive shapes how Santorini businesses prepare annual financial statements and auditing. Directive adopted in 2013; transposed into Greek law in the following years.

Recent developments relevant to Santorini include the digitalization of company registration and filings through the General Electronic Registry of Enterprises (GEMI). This shift to online processes improves efficiency for island businesses that may operate with remote suppliers or multi-location teams.

GEMI provides the General Electronic Registry for Greek enterprises, enabling online registrations, amendments, and filing of financial statements. Source: gov.gr and gemi.gov.gr.

For EU law context, see the European Union’s official directive page on 2013/34/EU and its Greek transposition.

Directive 2013/34/EU establishes uniform reporting requirements for annual accounts and consolidated accounts across the EU. Source: eur-lex.europa.eu.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the first step to form a company in Santorini?

Begin with a defined business activity and select a corporate form (eg, limited liability company or anonymous company). Then prepare the foundational documents and register with GEMI, obtaining a Greek tax number and opening a local bank account.

How do I register a company in Santorini online?

Use GEMI’s online portal to create the company record, upload the Articles of Association, and submit required documents. After review, you receive a registration number and can file annual accounts electronically.

Do I need a local lawyer for corporate deals in Santorini?

While not legally mandatory, a local corporate lawyer improves accuracy in contracts, licensing, and filings. A dedicated attorney helps avoid delays and ensures compliance with Greek and EU rules.

How much does forming a Greek LLC typically cost?

Costs vary with complexity and services, but expect standby fees for registration, notary, and legal work around €1,000 to €4,000. Additional ongoing costs include annual accounting and tax filings.

How long does it take to register a company in Greece?

Online registrations can take as little as 1-2 weeks if documents are complete. More complex structures or due diligence may extend this to 3-6 weeks.

Do I need to use a Greek accountant to file annual accounts?

Yes. Greek annual accounts must be prepared in accordance with Greek accounting standards and filed with GEMI; a licensed accountant or auditor is typically required.

What is the difference between an anonymous company and a limited liability company?

Anonymous companies issue shares and have more formal governance; limited liability companies offer simpler governance and liability limited to contributed capital. Both types are common in Greece, with different capital and disclosure requirements.

Can non-residents own or manage a Greek company?

Non-residents can own shares in Greek companies, but hiring decisions and work permits may require Greek permits. A local lawyer can navigate residency and employment considerations.

What taxes affect a Santorini business?

Corporate income tax, value added tax, and local municipal taxes apply. Taxes are paid to the Greek tax authorities, with periodic filings and clearances required by law.

Do I need to file annual financial statements in Greece?

Yes. All Greek companies must prepare and file annual financial statements with GEMI, accompanied by auditor reports if applicable. This ensures regulatory compliance and transparency for investors.

What should I consider when negotiating a commercial lease in Santorini?

Important points include rent review terms, duration, renewal options, maintenance responsibilities, and termination provisions. Ensure the lease aligns with zoning rules and licensing requirements for your activity.

Is there a difference between Greek and EU regulatory requirements for my business?

EU directives set broad standards for accounting and reporting, which Greece implements through domestic law. Your contracts and filings should reflect both Greek specifics and EU obligations where applicable.

5. Additional Resources

• gov.gr - Official Greek government portal for legislation, regulations, and practical guidance on business registrations, licensing, and corporate compliance. https://www.gov.gr
• General Electronic Registry of Enterprises (GEMI) - Online system for registering, modifying, and filing corporate records in Greece. https://www.gemi.gov.gr
• EUR-Lex - Access to European Union law, including Directive 2013/34/EU on annual accounts and consolidated accounts. https://eur-lex.europa.eu

6. Next Steps

1. Clarify your business goals and select the optimal corporate form for Santorini based on liability, capital, and tax considerations.
2. Gather key documents early, including identification, proof of address, and draft Articles of Association or Partnership Agreement.
3. Research local corporate lawyers with experience in Santorini’s tourism and real estate sectors, and request client references.
4. Request initial consultations to discuss scope, fees, and timeline; confirm whether you prefer in-person meetings or remote advice.
5. Obtain a written engagement letter outlining services, fees, deliverables, and a dispute-resolution plan.
6. Provide all required documents promptly to avoid delays; establish a clear communication channel for ongoing filings and amendments.
7. Review the engagement, sign the agreement, and begin the process with GEMI and the Greek tax authorities, with regular progress updates.