Medicare

During their studies, University of Crete students (undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral) are entitled to full medical and pharmaceutical care in a public hospital in Heraklion and/or Rethymnon and Health Centres of the prefectures if they are not insured otherwise. 

Τhis is not referred to as incoming Erasmus+ students.

To  access medical and pharmaceutical care, AMKA is required.

 

Procedure and Required Documents for Foreign Students to Obtain a Tax Identification Number (AFM) and subsequently an AMKA

OBTAINING AN AFM (Tax Identification Number)

To obtain an AFM, you will need the following documents:

  1. A photocopy of a valid passport or other travel document recognized by the Greek state.
  2. A valid residence permit or entry visa, as well as the page with the entry stamp or other official proof of legal residence in the country according to current legislation.
  3. If you are a minor of foreign nationality, an officially translated birth certificate.
  4. Officially translated marriage certificate or civil partnership agreement, if applicable.
  5. Rental agreement if you are staying in rented accommodation, or proof of residence in a student dormitory, or a declaration from the person hosting you.

Steps to Obtain AFM and “Kleidarithmos” (Access Codes):

  1. Apply through the myAADE digital portal, under the section: “AFM Number & Access Codes (Acting on my behalf)”, without filling in residence permit details or tax representative information.
  2. After applying, you will receive an application number. Keep this number safe — you’ll need it to schedule an online appointment with an AADE officer to receive your AFM and access codes.
  3. Once the AADE officer verifies your application details and passport, your AFM and Kleidarithmos will be issued. These details (AFM number, login credentials, and access code) will be sent to your email address in an encrypted file as stated in your application.

This file will include your AFM number, username, a temporary password (which you must change for security reasons when activating your account), and the Kleidarithmos code necessary to complete activation.

 

OBTAINING AN AMKA (Social Security Number)

This number (AMKA) is unique, grants access to public healthcare services, and is necessary for employment. To obtain an AMKA, you will need:

  1. A copy of a valid passport
  2. Proof of AFM issuance
  3. Rental agreement, proof of student dormitory residence, or declaration from your host
  4. Recent certificate of student status
  5. Residence permits for studies with permission to work part-time (for students from non-EU countries)
  6. Copy of your work contract (if employed)
  7. Translated birth or family status certificate in Greek (certified translation), including names written in Latin characters
  8. Registration certificate of an EU citizen issued by the Police (for students from the European Union)

The Unified Social Security Fund (EFKA) is also the competent authority for AMKA issuance. Therefore, the students should contact the local EFKA office near ​​their residence.