Best New Business Formation Lawyers in Mykonos

About New Business Formation Law in Mykonos, Greece

Mykonos follows Greece's national framework for forming and operating businesses, with local approvals for tourism related activities. This means you must align your venture with corporate law, tax registration and, if applicable, tourism licensing. The island's prominence as a tourist destination increases the importance of compliance with local licensing and safety rules.

Common corporate structures in Greece include Sole Proprietorships, Limited Liability Companies (EPE and IKE forms), and Anonymous Companies (AE). A new venture typically registers with the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) and with the tax authority. If you operate a tourist accommodation or hospitality business, additional licensing and safety standards apply from relevant Greek authorities.

The process has become more digital through gov.gr, which supports business registration, licensing requests, and document submissions. The government’s One Stop Shop aims to streamline procedures for small and medium enterprises. See official guidance on digital licensing and start-up steps at the links below.

Source: gov.gr provides information about digital licensing and the One Stop Shop for starting a business in Greece. gov.gr

Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Opening a tourist accommodation on Mykonos such as a villa, boutique hotel, or apartment complex requires a tourism license and compliance with fire safety and urban planning rules. A lawyer helps structure ownership, coordinate with licensing authorities, and prepare the required registrations.
• Launching a restaurant or bar involves health, safety, liquor licensing, and local zoning approvals. An attorney can manage lease agreements, construct documentation for licensing applications, and navigate inspections.
• Establishing a Greek company for island operations may require choosing between corporate forms and drafting shareholder or operating agreements. A lawyer can prepare the articles of association and ensure capital and governance rules comply with Greek law.
• Hiring local staff involves Greek labor and social security requirements. A legal counsel can help with employment contracts, registrations, and compliance with local wage and work-time rules.
• Brand protection and intellectual property such as registering a trademark for your hotel, restaurant, or resort brand. An attorney can guide the application process and respond to office actions.
• Cross-border or investment ventures on Mykonos require clear ownership, tax planning, and contract drafting. A lawyer can draft joint venture agreements and coordinate with tax and regulatory authorities.

Local Laws Overview

Law 2190/1920 - commonly cited as the main framework for Societes Anonymes (SAs) and other corporate forms in Greece. It governs formation, share capital, governance, and minority protections for companies. This statute remains a foundational reference for corporate setups on Mykonos and across Greece, albeit with numerous amendments over the years.

Law 4072/2012 - introduced modernization of corporate law and the drafting of new forms such as the IKE (private company with limited liability) and streamlined procedures for small businesses. It remains influential for choosing business form and reducing upfront capital requirements in many cases. Expect updates and amendments as part of ongoing regulatory reforms.

Law 4442/2016 - focused on regulatory reforms for licensing and public administration, including steps toward digital licensing and the One Stop Shop for business formation. It supports faster start-up processes and online submissions for certain registrations and permits.

Recent changes emphasize digital services and faster licensing available via gov.gr, which is particularly important for tourism and hospitality ventures on Mykonos. Always verify current provisions, as amendments frequently adjust capital requirements, formation steps, and licensing timelines.

For licensing reforms and digital start-up procedures, see Mindev and gov.gr guidance on modernizing business formation. mindev.gov.gr gov.gr

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Define your business form and prepare a name check. Then gather required identification, address proofs, and initial capital documents, and consult a local attorney to align with Greek corporate law.

How long does company registration typically take in Greece?

Registration can take several weeks, depending on the complexity and license requirements. A lawyer can help parallelize steps such as drafting documents, obtaining licenses, and completing tax registrations.

Do I need a local attorney to start a business in Mykonos?

While not mandatory, a local attorney with experience in Greek corporate and tourism licensing reduces delays. They can coordinate with municipal authorities and licensing bodies more efficiently.

How much does it cost to start a small business in Mykonos?

Costs vary by form and sector but typically include notary and registration fees, legal fees, and initial capital requirements. A lawyer can provide a detailed, itemized estimate for your case.

Do I need a Greek tax number before registration?

Yes, tax registration is usually required early in the process. A lawyer can coordinate with the tax authority to ensure you obtain a tax identification number promptly.

What is the difference between AE and IKE in Greece?

AE is a public limited company, while IKE is a private company with limited liability. IKE generally requires less capital and offers more flexible governance for smaller ventures.

How long does it take to obtain a tourism license for accommodation?

Timing varies by municipality and license type, but licensing can take several weeks to a few months. A lawyer helps prepare the required safety, zoning, and occupancy documents to avoid delays.

Can a non EU citizen start a business in Mykonos?

Yes, non EU citizens can establish businesses, but there may be additional immigration and work authorization considerations. A lawyer can guide you on compliant structures and permits.

What is the process to trademark a brand in Greece?

File a Greek trademark application, respond to office actions, and monitor for conflicts with existing marks. A lawyer can coordinate with the competent IP office and handle oppositions.

What are ongoing compliance requirements for a Mykonos business?

Ongoing requirements include annual general meetings (for certain forms), tax filings, and periodic licensing renewals. Your attorney can create a calendar to keep you compliant.

Do I need to publish a notice in a newspaper when forming a company?

Publication requirements vary by corporate form and sector. A local attorney can confirm whether a public notice is required for your specific entity.

How do I hire staff and register employees in Mykonos?

Hire in line with Greek labor laws, draft compliant employment contracts, and proceed with social security registrations. A lawyer helps ensure contractual compliance and correct documentation.

Additional Resources

• Mindev.gov.gr - Ministry of Development and Investment information on business formation, licensing, and investment rules. mindev.gov.gr
• Gov.gr - Central portal for government services related to starting and operating a business, including digital licensing and One Stop Shop procedures. gov.gr

Next Steps

1. Clarify your business idea and choose the most suitable legal form for Mykonos operations.
2. Check name availability and prepare foundational documents (ownership, capital structure, governance).
3. Engage a Mykonos-based lawyer with experience in corporate law and tourism licensing to audit the plan.
4. Compile all required documents and schedule an initial consultation as soon as possible.
5. File the registration with GEMI and obtain tax, licensing, and safety approvals as required.
6. Establish employment and social security arrangements if you plan to hire staff on the island.
7. Implement an ongoing compliance calendar with annual filings and license renewals, reviewed by your attorney at least quarterly.