Here’s an explanation of the Greek “Προσωπικός Αριθμός” (Pro̱sopikós Arithmós), formatted in HTML:
The term “Προσωπικός Αριθμός” (Pro̱sopikós Arithmós) in Greek translates to “Personal Number.” However, it’s important to understand that there isn’t a single, universal “Personal Number” used for all purposes in Greece in the same way a Social Security Number (SSN) is used in the United States. Instead, several different identification numbers serve various functions.
To clarify, when discussing “Προσωπικός Αριθμός,” it’s vital to understand the context. Often, people are actually referring to one of the following:
- Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου (ΑΦΜ) / Arithmós Forologikoú Mitróou (AFM): This is the Greek Tax Identification Number (TIN). It’s a nine-digit number issued by the tax authorities (Ανεξάρτητη Αρχή Δημοσίων Εσόδων – Independent Authority for Public Revenue, AADE). The AFM is crucial for all financial transactions, including employment, banking, property ownership, and paying taxes. Almost all Greek residents and anyone conducting business in Greece will possess an AFM. It’s often the closest equivalent to what someone might intuitively think of as a personal identification number.
- Αριθμός Δελτίου Ταυτότητας / Arithmós Deltíou Taftótitas: This is the number on your Greek National Identity Card (Δελτίο Ταυτότητας). This number is printed on the identity card and is used for identification purposes, such as opening bank accounts or voting. While commonly used as a form of identification, it’s not technically a “personal number” in the same way as the AFM because its use isn’t as universally required for bureaucratic and financial processes.
- Αριθμός Μητρώου Κοινωνικής Ασφάλισης (ΑΜΚΑ) / Arithmós Mitróou Koinonikís Asfálisis (AMKA): This is the Social Security Number. It’s used for accessing public healthcare services, social security benefits, and employment-related matters. The AMKA is essential for anyone working or residing in Greece and requiring access to the national health system or social security programs.
Therefore, when someone asks for your “Προσωπικός Αριθμός,” you must clarify which number they are referring to. Assuming it’s the AFM when they actually need your AMKA can cause delays and misunderstandings. It’s best to ask explicitly, “Which number are you referring to? My AFM (Tax Number), my Identity Card number, or my AMKA (Social Security Number)?”
In summary, while “Προσωπικός Αριθμός” literally means “Personal Number,” it’s a general term. In practice, it refers to one of several specific identification numbers depending on the context of the request. The AFM, Identity Card Number, and AMKA are the most commonly used and understood identifiers.