Greece’s Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR) is set to expand its “Digital Client Registry” to the social events sector following the Easter holidays, targeting tax evasion in weddings, baptisms, and private parties.
For the first time, tax authorities will have a centralized, real-time overview of event volumes, guest counts, and services provided. This move aims to curb long-standing patterns of systemic tax evasion in a sector historically known for high rates of non-compliance.
The new regulations apply to both event venues (such as reception halls, estates, and multipurpose spaces) and catering companies. The goal is to ensure that entire event seasons no longer fly under the radar of tax auditors.
Under the new framework:
- Pre-Registration: Businesses must record client details on the digital platform both before and after an event.
- Real-Time Sync: Data is automatically transmitted to the IAPR and cross-referenced in real-time with digital invoices on the myDATA platform.
- Strict Enforcement: If an audit discovers an active event that has not been registered, the business will face immediate administrative sanctions and potentially a comprehensive tax audit.
The “Auto-Service” model
This expansion follows the successful rollout of the Digital Client Registry in July for sectors such as auto repair shops, car washes, parking facilities, and car rental agencies. In those industries, businesses are required to log every vehicle entering their premises via smartphone or tablet, completing the entry with an invoice upon delivery.
By collecting this data, the IAPR can monitor business activity in real-time and identify discrepancies between declared transactions and actual traffic.
The system is designed for efficiency, moving away from the need for physical on-site inspections:
Automated Audits: If the number of registered events does not match the invoices issued on myDATA, the business is automatically flagged for investigation.
Penalties: Similar to the auto sector—where failing to log a vehicle results in a €100 fine per entry—the events sector will face stiff penalties for late or missing registrations.
Related: One-Third of Greek Tourism Businesses Found Guilty of Tax Evasion
