Greece digitizes civil registry process for citizens living abroad

The Greek Ministry of Interior has introduced a new digital process to simplify the registration of civil status events—such as births, marriages, and deaths—for Greek citizens living abroad. Through a joint decision by Minister Thodoris Livanios and Deputy Minister Vasilis Spanakis, the Special Registry's digital platform will now allow for the pre-approval of required documentation.

Citizens authenticated via taxisnet or authorized lawyers using the Federation of Bar Associations of Greece electronic services can submit applications digitally. Once documents are pre-approved online, applicants can send original or certified copies via courier or present them in person at the Ministry of Interior’s Directorate of Urban and Municipal Status. Upon verification, an electronic notification is sent to the applicant to complete the final registration request.

Deputy Minister Vasilis Spanakis stated that updating the outdated 1976 civil registry law aims to digitize paper records and reduce bureaucracy. With over 8,000 such registrations occurring annually, the initiative seeks to make the Special Registry more user-friendly and modern.