Greece has finally unveiled the long waited innovative "e-Charter Permission" system, revolutionizing the landscape for luxury non Greek flag yachts to operate in Greek waters. This marks a significant departure from previous regulations where foreign-flagged yachts necessitated a Greek business branch to qualify for a charter license. The freshly introduced e-Charter permit now empowers EU and non-EU-flagged yachts, to embark on charters in Greece, bookending within the country's borders, for a maximum of 21 days annually.
Eligibility for the E-Charter Permit necessitates the yacht's commercial registration on a foreign flag, a length surpassing 35 meters, and a hull primarily composed of plastic, steel, or aluminium. Approval hinges on meeting specific criteria, including a signed charter agreement, payment of the Special Charter Fee, possession of a safety certificate, and adherence to VAT regulations.
It's crucial to acknowledge that private use of these yachts in Greek waters is sanctioned under the E-Charter Permit, subject to specific conditions. However, duty-free fuel is excluded for private use.
Commercial yachts chartering in Greece where the charter has started and ended outside of Greece may do so without applying for an E-Charter Permit subject to paying a Special Charter Fee for the days spent in Greek waters.
Yachts below 35m or yachts which do not want to be limited by the number of days would still need to be operated under the old system by setting up a Greek Branch and applying for a Charter Licence.
For more information, please contact: j.xanthopoulos@rosemont-yacht.com
03/2024