• There are two main types of work visas that you can apply for in Greece:

  • Short-term (type C visa), used mainly for business meetings, and long-term (type D visa).
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  • Citizens of the EU/European Free Trade Association member states

    Currently, the same conditions apply to all citizens of EU/EFTA member states. EU/EFTA citizens have advantages in accessing the labor market.

    
    

    According to Greek law, citizens of the country and EU member states are the first to apply for any vacancy on the market. If none of the applicants is suitable for the employer, he can apply for a foreigner to the Ministry of Labor;

  
  

  Who is granted a shorter visa period?

  • Seasonal workers (tourism, retail) - up to 6 months

  • Fish farms - up to 11 months;

  • Members of the artistic team - up to 1 year

  • Employees legally employed by an enterprise registered in an EU Member State who are traveling to provide a specific service under a contractual obligation - up to 1 year

  • A qualified technical worker at an enterprise registered in another country under a contract for the provision of specific services - up to 6 months

  • Leaders of organized tourist groups - up to 8 months

  • Athletes, coaches and other specialized personnel for training - up to 6 months

  • Students participating in the internship program - up to 6 months.

  
  

  Based on the jobs provided for by the law on seasonal work, every employer wishing to hire personnel for dependent work, seasonal work or fishermen shall submit an application to the competent service of the Decentralized Administration at the place of residence, which shall include the number of jobs, information and citizenship of third-country nationals to be employed, specialization and period of work;

  
  

  What documents are attached to the application?

  • a valid employment contract showing that his remuneration is at least equal to the monthly salary of an unskilled worker

  • a tax return or a copy of a corporate tax return stating that the employer pays a monthly salary as specified in the employment contract;

  
  

  What is the length of stay in Greece for seasonal work?

  The procedure for entering the country by third-country nationals for seasonal work stipulates that the period of stay in the country cannot be less than two months and in general more than 6 months per year;

  
  

  What industries are covered by seasonal work?

  Seasonal work according to Article 11(3) of Law 4251 (Protection of Employees' Rights in Greece) covers only the agriculture, forestry and livestock sectors.

  
  

  What additional documents must the employer provide?

  In addition to other supporting documents to be submitted to the competent decentralized administration, the employer must, in accordance with case E of paragraph 3 of the above article, provide evidence that the employee is provided with adequate housing;

  
  

  Do seasonal workers need a residence permit?

  Seasonal workers are issued only an entry visa and do not require a residence permit;

  
  

  A citizen of a third country (not a member of the EU and EEA) in respect of whom the competent service of the Decentralized Administration has issued and submitted to the competent consular authority a decision on a work permit for seasonal work may provide one of the following documents:

  • National entry visa for seasonal work with a maximum validity and residence period of six (6) months. A third-country national may re-enter with the appropriate visa six (6) months after the expiration of the previous entry visa

  • National entry visa for seasonal work with a maximum validity of one (1) year with the right to seasonal work for a total duration of six (6) months during the validity period of the visa, which depends on the periods of work provided for in the employment contract

  • A single entry visa for short-term entry (Schengen) multiple entry with a maximum validity of six (6) months with a stay of ninety (90) days for seasonal work.

  
  

  Third-country nationals legally residing and working in Greece, as provided for in Article 21(2) of Law 4251 (Protection of Employees' Rights in Greece), have the same employment and insurance rights as Greek employees. Thus, the provisions of the labor law regarding issues such as working hours and wages apply to them, and they also enjoy the relevant benefits from the state insurance organizations in which they are insured.

• A long-term visa gives a person permission to enter and stay in Greece for more than 3 months. It also allows a person to engage in most types of paid activities. Anyone who holds a D visa must apply for a work and residence permit immediately after entering the country.

A Greek D visa is usually valid for one year, but some categories of applicants are granted a shorter visa validity period.




Citizens of EU/European Free Trade Association member states

Currently, the same conditions apply to all citizens of EU/EFTA member states. EU/EFTA citizens have advantages in accessing the labor market.




According to Greek law, citizens of the country and EU member states are the first to apply for any vacancy on the market. If none of the applicants is suitable for the employer, he can apply for a foreigner to the Ministry of Labor;




What are the requirements for obtaining a long-term work visa D in Greece?
You will need to collect the following documents in addition to the application for a work visa to Greece:

• Fully completed D visa application form in English or Greek

• The passport is valid for at least three months after the expiration of the visa D

• Copies of the data page and residence permit

• A recent passport-size color photo no older than six months

• Travel medical insurance valid for the period of validity of the visa D

• Certificate of medical fitness

• A copy of the applicant's criminal record;




After obtaining a D work visa, you must obtain a work permit in Greece to legally work for your chosen company. The employer must be locally licensed and registered. Work permits now include a residence permit, which means that employees only need a work permit and a long-stay visa to legally live and work in the country. Work permits usually depend on the employer, profession and place of residence and are usually valid for one year.




How does the procedure go?

Within 30 days of your arrival in Greece, you must go to your local municipal office or police station and apply for a work permit in person. The work permit required depends on the position you plan to hold, and this may also affect the validity of the permit.




What are the main stages of applying for a D work visa?

• Obtaining a tax number from the local tax office and a social security number from the Social Insurance Institute

• Filling out the residence permit form in Greek and submitting it in person or through a certified lawyer with a power of attorney

• Provide a copy of the visa, passport, passport photos, health insurance certificate

• Health certificate from a public hospital

• Proof of local address, ability to support yourself and payment of the required fee




What additional information do I need to know about obtaining a work permit?

You will need to renew your work permit at your local municipal office or prefecture at least 60 days before it expires. You will need a valid passport, photocopies of passport pages, a certified copy of the original work permit, a completed application form, and other documents depending on the type of permit.




How much does a D work visa to Greece cost for EU citizens and non-EU and EEA citizens?

The standard fee for a Greek D visa is 180 euros. However, these fees differ depending on the following visa categories:

• Ethnic Greeks living in Albania and Turkey - 20 euros

• Third-country nationals traveling on behalf of an EU/EEA-based company - 75 euros (plus an additional 150 euros, as they do not need a residence permit)

• Seasonal workers - 75 euros

• Leaders of organized tourist groups applying for a stay of up to 8 months - 75 euros

• Scholarship holders participating in specific exchange programs under bilateral agreements or co-funded programs of the European Union - 90 euros.




Citizens of other non-EU/EFTA countries

To obtain a work or long-term D visa to Greece for non-EEA employees, the employee must meet certain requirements, in particular, regarding the application documents.




What documents are required to apply?

• Your valid passport.

• Recent photos.

• Medical insurance.

• Medical certificate.

• Booking round-trip airline tickets.

• Evidence of sufficient financial resources.

• Proof of residence;

Employees applying for a D work visa must also provide other documents related to their work.




What additional documents are required to apply?

• A certified copy of a valid employment contract, notarized or approved by a public authority. The employee's salary must be (at least) equal to the national minimum wage and be equal to the national conditions of employment.

• Confirmation of employee qualifications and experience.

• Any relevant certificates, licenses, references or permissions;




How does the procedure go?
The process of applying for a Greek D/Long-stay visa for non-EEA workers consists of several procedures that need to be followed correctly in order not to risk delays or unsuccessful applications. It is important to note that the order of the steps may vary according to the rules of the country of residence.




What are the main steps in applying?

• Fill in the application form: fill in both parts of the form - the first part concerns your personal data, and the second part contains questions related to the purpose of your application.

• Schedule a visa appointment: You must make an appointment for a visa interview at your local Greek embassy or consulate, which is mandatory. The scheduling and interview process may differ depending on how they are regulated in your country of residence - you may have to do it by phone, online or, in some cases, in person.

• Complete your visa interview: You will meet with a consulate or two who will ask you questions about your trip. You will need to answer carefully.

• Provide the required documents: You have to provide the collected documents to the consulate(s) if required.

• Provide your biometric data: your fingerprints will be scanned and your face will be taken if you have not traveled to the Schengen area in the last 5 years.

• Payment of visa fee: In most cases, payment for the visa is required on the day of the interview. Payment process/requirements may vary depending on the country of residence;




How long is the period for obtaining a long-term Greek visa D?

The period for issuing a Greek D visa varies: the minimum is 6 days and the maximum is 3 months;

After obtaining a visa, employees must obtain a work permit in Greece to legally work for the company. However, an employer can apply for a work permit for its employees if the company is licensed and registered.

Starting a business in Greece for a foreigner involves several steps:

Study the market:Before starting a business in Greece, conduct thorough market research to identify potential opportunities, assess competition, and understand consumer behavior. Determine if there is a demand for your product or service and assess the feasibility of your business idea.

Business Plan:Develop a comprehensive business plan that outlines your goals, target market, marketing strategies, financial projections, and operational details. A well-structured business plan will be important when seeking funding or support from investors.

Juridical structure: Decide on the legal form of your business. In Greece, the common options are sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability company (LLC) or joint stock company (JSC). Each structure has its own requirements and implications in terms of liability, taxation and administrative obligations.

Choose a business name:Choose a unique and memorable name for your business. Make sure that the chosen name is not used by another company in Greece. Contact the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) to confirm the availability of the name.

Register your business:Register your business with the Greek authorities. The process involves submitting the required documentation to GEMI, including the articles of association, identity documents, and proof of address;

Tax obligations:Familiarize yourself with the Greek tax system and understand your tax obligations as a business owner. Obtain a tax identification number (TIN) and the necessary VAT (value added tax) numbers. Consult an accountant to ensure compliance with tax laws.

Obtain permits and licenses:Depending on the nature of your business, you may need to obtain certain permits or licenses. These requirements depend on the industry and region in which you plan to operate. Contact the relevant local authorities or consult a lawyer to determine which permits are necessary for your business.

Open a bank account:Open a bank account in Greece to conduct financial transactions. Choose a reputable bank that offers appropriate banking services for businesses and provides assistance in English if needed.

Seek funding or grants:Explore the funding opportunities available in Greece, including government grants, venture capital, or loans from financial institutions. Explore the eligibility criteria and application process for different funding options.

Network and establish partnerships: Attend business events, join industry associations, and network with local entrepreneurs to build connections and establish partnerships. Collaborating with local businesses will help you navigate the Greek market more effectively.

Marketing and Promotion:Develop a marketing strategy to raise awareness of your business. Utilize digital marketing channels, establish an online presence, and utilize social media platforms to reach your target audience;

Useful resources 

If you are a foreigner looking to start a business in Greece, there are several useful portals and resources that can provide valuable information and assistance:

Invest in Greece (www.investingreece.gov.gr): The official website of Enterprise Greece, the government agency responsible for attracting investment to Greece. The site provides information on investment opportunities, business sectors, legal framework and incentives available to foreign entrepreneurs.

General Commercial Registry (GEMI) (www.businessportal.gr): GEMI is responsible for business registration in Greece. Their website offers access to online services for business registration, searching for company information and submitting the necessary documentation.

Ministry of Development and Investment of Greece (www.mindigital.gr): The website of the Ministry of Development and Investment provides information on various aspects of business development, investment and entrepreneurship in Greece. It contains detailed information on business support programs, financing opportunities and economic policy.

Enterprise Europe Network (een.ec.europa.eu): Enterprise Europe Network helps European companies find international partners, access financing and navigate EU regulations. Its Greek branch can provide assistance to foreign entrepreneurs wishing to start a business in Greece.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Hellenic Republic (www.mfa.gr): The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website offers valuable information on visas, residence permits and legal requirements for foreigners living and doing business in Greece.

Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry (www.acci.gr): The Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry provides support and resources for businesses operating in the Athens region. They offer information on business regulations, networking opportunities and business development services.

Hellenic National Tourism Organization (www.visitgreece.gr):If you are planning to start a business in the tourism sector, the website of the Hellenic National Tourism Organization provides information on the tourism industry, regulations and investment opportunities. It also offers information on tourism statistics and market trends.

To open and operate a business in Greece as a foreigner, you usually need a business visa or a residence permit to carry out business activities:

Types of visas:

a. Schengen visa: If you are planning to visit Greece for a short stay, up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you can apply for a Schengen visa. This visa allows you to explore business opportunities, attend meetings, conferences or trade fairs. However, it does not allow you to establish a business or work in Greece for an extended period of time.

b. Residence permit for business activities: If you intend to start and operate a business in Greece, you need to apply for a residence permit for business activities. This permit allows you to live and work in Greece as a self-employed entrepreneur.

Requirements for a temporary residence permit for entrepreneurial activity:

a. Business plan: Prepare a detailed business plan that outlines your proposed business activities, investment plans, job creation potential, and financial viability.

b. Sufficient funds: Demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to support yourself and your entrepreneurial activity in Greece. This may include personal savings, investment capital, or access to financing.

c. Relevant qualifications or experience: Provide evidence of your qualifications, skills or experience in business or entrepreneurship.

d. Health insurance: Obtain valid health insurance that covers your health care needs during your stay in Greece.

e. No criminal record: Provide a certificate of no criminal record from your country of residence or any other country where you have lived for a long period of time.

f. Other documentation: You may need to provide additional documents such as a valid passport, proof of residence in Greece and any other documents that may be requested by the Greek authorities.

The application process:

a. Apply: Apply for a business visa or residence permit for entrepreneurial activities at the Greek embassy or consulate in your country of residence. Submit the required documents together with the completed application form.

b. Review of the application: The Greek authorities will review your application, business plan and supporting documents. If necessary, they may request additional information or schedule an interview.

c. Decision and issuance of the visa: Once your application is approved, you will be issued a business visa or a residence permit for entrepreneurial activities, depending on the length and nature of your stay in Greece.

Obligations upon arrival:

a. Register your business: Upon arrival in Greece, you will need to register your business with the Greek authorities, such as the General Commercial Registry (GEMI) or the tax authorities.

b. Residence permit renewal: If you have a residence permit for business purposes, you need to renew it periodically to ensure its validity.

The Greek labor law regulates the relationship between employers and employees, creating a legal framework to ensure fair treatment, protect employees' rights and promote safe and healthy working conditions. The labor law system in Greece is based primarily on legislation, collective bargaining agreements and EU directives:

Employment contracts:Employment contracts in Greece can be either fixed-term or indefinite. Indefinite contracts are the norm, and they provide greater job security and various fringe benefits for employees. Such contracts must be in writing and contain important information such as job responsibilities, working hours, salary and termination conditions.

Working hours: The standard working week in Greece is 40 hours, with a maximum of 8 hours per day. Overtime is allowed, but is subject to special rules, such as a limit on the number of hours per week and a minimum rest period between shifts. Employees are entitled to additional compensation or time off for overtime work.

Minimum wage: In 2024, the minimum wage in Greece is 830.00 euros.

Employee benefits: Greek labor law provides for certain employee benefits, including social security, health insurance and pension contributions. Employers are responsible for deducting these contributions from employees' salaries and transferring them to the relevant authorities. The government also provides additional benefits such as maternity leave, parental leave and protection against unfair dismissal.

Health and safety: Greek labor law pays considerable attention to health and safety in the workplace. Employers are obliged to provide a safe working environment, conduct risk assessments and take measures to prevent accidents and occupational diseases. Employees have the right to refuse to work if they believe that it poses a serious and imminent danger to their health and safety.

End of employment: The termination of employment in Greece can occur in a variety of ways, including resignation, mutual agreement or dismissal. Dismissal must be justified and follow certain legal procedures to ensure fairness and protect employees from arbitrary dismissal. In the event of wrongful dismissal, employees have the right to seek remedies, including reinstatement and compensation.

If you are a foreigner looking for a job in Greece, here are some tips to help you navigate the labor market and increase your chances of success:

Language skills: Greek is the official language of Greece, so a basic understanding of the language will greatly increase your chances of employment. While there are some job opportunities for English speakers, especially in tourism and international companies, knowing Greek will give you a competitive edge. Consider taking a language course or using language learning resources to improve your knowledge.

Study the labor market:Before you start your job search, conduct thorough research on the current labor market in Greece. Identify industries that are thriving as well as sectors that are in demand for foreign experience or specific skill sets;

Networking:Networking is vital in Greece as personal connections often play a significant role in the labor market. Attend professional events, industry conferences and networking meetings to meet potential employers, industry professionals and other job seekers. Use online platforms such as LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field of interest.

Professional qualifications:Assess whether your professional qualifications are recognized in Greece. Depending on your profession, you may need to confirm your qualifications with competent Greek authorities or professional organizations;

Online job search platforms:Use online job search platforms and websites that specialize in the Greek labor market. Popular job portals in Greece include Kariera.gr, Ergodotisi.com, and Jobs365.gr. Check these platforms regularly for job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Many companies also post job openings on their websites, so consider visiting the career pages directly with the companies.

Cultural adaptation:Familiarize yourself with Greek work culture and customs. Greeks often prefer personal relationships, so establishing contact and showing a genuine interest in the local culture can make a positive impression on potential employers;

Work permits and legal requirements:Make sure you have the necessary work permits and legal documents to work in Greece. Depending on your nationality and length of stay, you may need to obtain a work visa or residence permit;

Professional resume and cover letter:Tailor your resume and cover letter to the Greek labor market. Emphasize your skills, experience and qualifications. Be sure to emphasize any previous work experience in Greece or other Mediterranean countries.