Served with a payment order in Greece: opposition, suspension and first steps

Understanding the document you received

A Greek payment order concerns a claim examined on documentary evidence and can serve as an enforceable title. It is different from an extrajudicial notice or an ordinary collection letter. Receiving one calls for immediate legal assessment, even if you believe the debt has been paid or the amount is wrong.

From 1 May 2026, responsibility for issuing new payment orders has transferred to designated lawyers under the new framework. A lawyer's signature therefore does not make the order an ordinary private letter. Its date of issue, the applicable procedural regime and the contents of the title all need to be checked.

Service determines the urgent next steps

Record when, where and how the documents were delivered. Scan or photograph every page and preserve the originals. The service report should also be obtained. If an enforcement demand or another enforcement document accompanies the order, provide it at the same time rather than leaving it for a later discussion.

Opposition is subject to short deadlines. The calculation depends on service, residence or registered office, any earlier service and the applicable procedural rules. Do not wait for a complete file or an answer from the creditor before seeking advice. A possible defect in service should not be treated as a reason to take no action.

• The complete payment order
• Service report and previously served documents
• Contract, account statements and proof of payment
• Repayment arrangements, correspondence and any attachment documents

Opposition does not automatically suspend enforcement

An opposition raises specific grounds of challenge. These may involve the amount claimed, payments not credited or the documents supporting the claim. There is no universal objection that defeats every payment order: each ground must relate to the file and be raised in a procedurally admissible way.

Filing an opposition does not automatically suspend enforcement. A separate assessment is needed of an application for suspension and interim protection. If enforcement has already started, additional steps may be required. Challenging the payment order and challenging enforcement measures are not the same procedure.

When a repayment arrangement is being discussed

Negotiations may run alongside steps to protect your legal position. Keep written records and establish what any proposed agreement covers: the total amount, instalments, costs and the treatment of enforcement. A verbal assurance that the matter will be put on hold is not a reliable substitute for clear terms.

Before paying, acknowledging a debt or waiving rights, obtain advice on the terms and consequences. For a matter in Heraklion or elsewhere in Crete, make contact from the day of service and send what you already have. Early assessment helps organise the available options without predicting the outcome.