Greece Work Visa & Work Permit: The Ultimate Guide for Foreigners

Greece, known for its scenic beauty, Mediterranean lifestyle, and growing economy, has become an increasingly attractive destination for international workers seeking legal employment in Europe.

With its expanding tourism, agriculture, shipping, construction, and service industries, Greece offers both skilled and unskilled foreign professionals the opportunity to build stable careers in the European Union.

This comprehensive guide explains everything about the Greek Work Visa and Work Permit, including eligibility requirements, application process, documentation, fees, job sectors, and the benefits of working legally in Greece.

Why Work in Greece

1. A Reviving and Dynamic Economy

Greece’s economy has experienced steady growth in recent years, driven by tourism, logistics, construction, agriculture, and renewable energy sources.

This revival has created an ongoing demand for foreign workers to fill both seasonal and permanent roles.

2. High Demand for Foreign Labour

Greece actively recruits international workers from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Vietnam, the Philippines, and African countries to fill shortages in the hospitality, agriculture, construction, and healthcare sectors.

3. Legal Gateway to the European Union

A Greek Work Visa provides a legal route to live and work within the EU.

It also enables short-term travel within the Schengen Zone, offering flexibility across 26 European countries.

4. Affordable Cost of Living

Compared to Western Europe, Greece offers a lower cost of living, allowing foreign workers to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while saving more.

5. Pathway to Permanent Residence

After several years of continuous employment and legal residence, foreign nationals can apply for Permanent Residence and later become eligible for Greek citizenship, thereby ensuring long-term stability within the EU.

6. Transparent Visa Process

Greece’s visa and work permit procedures are well-structured, with clear eligibility criteria and cooperation between employers, immigration departments, and embassies.

Understanding the Greek Work Permit

A Greek Work Permit is a legal document that authorises non-EU nationals to work for a specific employer in Greece.

It defines your job title, employer, and employment duration. Without it, you cannot legally work or apply for a residence visa.

Issuing Authority

Work permits are issued by the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum in coordination with the Hellenic Labour Inspectorate and local immigration offices.

Validity

Most work permits are valid for 1 year and are renewable based on your employment contract and residence permit status.

Types of Work Permits in Greece

Permit Type	Purpose	Validity	Ideal For
General Employment Permit	For standard full-time employment	1 year	Most foreign workers
Seasonal Work Permit	For temporary or agricultural work	Up to 6 months	Farm and hospitality workers
EU Blue Card	For highly qualified professionals	2–4 years	Engineers, IT experts, specialists
Intra-Company Transfer Permit	For staff transferred within multinational firms	1–3 years	Corporate professionals
Temporary Service Work Permit	For contractors or project-based work	Up to 1 year	Consultants and technicians

Greece Work Visa (Type D Long-Stay Visa)

The Type D National Visa is a long-term visa that allows non-EU nationals to live and work legally in Greece.

It is directly tied to your approved work permit.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must:

• Have a valid job offer or signed employment contract from a registered Greek employer.
• Obtain a work permit before applying for a visa.
• Hold a valid passport with at least 12 months of validity.
• Provide proof of accommodation in Greece.
• Show financial stability and health insurance coverage.
• Present a clear criminal record issued by your home country.

Visa Validity

The Type D Work Visa is valid for one year and renewable as long as employment continues.

Documents Required

From the Employer

• Completed work permit application.
• Proof of company registration (GEMI certificate).
• Signed employment contract.
• Proof of tax and social security compliance.
• Evidence of labour demand and salary details.
• Payment receipt for government fees.

From the Employee

• Valid passport (minimum 12-month validity).
• Two biometric passport-size photos.
• Approved work permit.
• Health insurance certificate.
• Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or employer housing).
• Bank statement showing sufficient funds.
• Police clearance certificate.
• Completed visa application form and fee payment receipt.

Step-by-Step Process for a Greek Work Visa

1. Receive a Job Offer
   You can find employment through a licensed Greek company willing to sponsor your work permit.
2. Employer Applies for Work Permit
   Your employer submits the required documents to the Hellenic Labour Office or Migration Directorate.
3. Work Permit Issuance
   Once approved, the employer receives a permit letter that enables you to apply for your visa.
4. Apply for Type D Work Visa
   Submit your visa application, along with the necessary documents, to the Greek Embassy or a VFS Global centre in your country.
5. Visa Approval
   Once granted, you can travel to Greece and begin working under the terms of your approved permit.
6. Apply for a Residence Permit
   Within 30 days of arrival, register your stay at the Decentralised Administration Office and apply for a Residence Card.

Processing Time

Stage	Estimated Duration
Work Permit Approval	30–45 working days
Embassy Visa Processing	15–30 working days
Residence Card Issuance	1–3 months
Total Estimated Duration	60–120 working days

Fees and Costs

	Service Fee (€)	Paid By
Work Permit Application	150	Employer
Type D Visa	90	Employee
Embassy/VFS Fee	20	Employee
Residence Card	150	Employee

Additional costs include document translation, legalisation, and insurance fees.

Top Industries Hiring Foreign Workers in Greece

Industry	Common Roles	Average Monthly Salary (€)	Permit Type
Hospitality & Tourism	Hotel Staff, Cleaners, Chefs	900–1,400	Seasonal
Construction	Plumbers, Electricians, Painters	1,200–1,800	General
Agriculture	Farm Workers, Harvesters	800–1,200	Seasonal
Healthcare	Caregivers, Nurses	1,400–2,500	General
Shipping & Logistics	Dock Workers, Drivers	1,300–2,200	General
IT & Engineering	Software Developers, Analysts	2,000–4,000	Blue Card
Manufacturing	Technicians, Operators	1,000–1,800	Genera

Benefits of Working in Greece

• Legal employment under EU law.
• Access to healthcare, social security, and insurance.
• Opportunity for family reunification.
• Safe and transparent working environment.
• Gateway to Permanent Residence and Citizenship.
• Affordable lifestyle with good savings potential.
• Freedom to travel across Schengen countries.
• Balanced work-life culture and scenic living environment.

Official Government Resources

• Ministry of Migration and Asylum: https://migration.gov.gr
• Ministry of Foreign Affairs: https://www.mfa.gr
• Labour Inspectorate: https://www.sepenet.gr
• Work in Greece Portal: https://workinhellas.gov.gr

Greece Immigration & Work Permit Services | Moving2Europe.eu

Greece is becoming a leading destination for international workers thanks to its growing tourism industry, expanding construction sector, improved labour policies and high demand for seasonal and skilled professionals. However, Greece’s immigration procedures—work permits, employer sponsorship, seasonal quotas, consular requirements and document verification—can be complicated without proper expertise.

Moving2Europe.eu provides structured, compliant, and end-to-end immigration support for foreign workers, families, and employers seeking legal employment in the Greek labour market.

Complete Greece Work Permit & Residence Solutions

We assist with all major Greek immigration categories, including:

• Greece Seasonal Work Permit (Agriculture, Tourism, Hospitality)
• Type D National Visa for Employment
• Long-Term Residence Permit for Work
• Skilled Worker Permits
• EU Blue Card Greece
• Short-term & project-based work visas
• Self-employment, business & investor residence options
• Student, trainee & internship visas

We support both individuals and companies hiring international workers.

Greece Immigration Services for Individuals

1. Work Permit & Residence Application Assistance

We help with:

• Seasonal Work Permit applications
• Employment-based Type D Visa
• Long-term residence permits for employment
• EU Blue Card for specialised professions
• Permit renewals and long-stay pathways

2. Documentation & Embassy/VFS Preparation

Our services include:

• Document checklist tailored to your profile
• Compliance review of all paperwork
• Legalisation, apostille & certified translations
• Visa file preparation
• Embassy/VFS appointment scheduling
• Interview guidance where required

3. Arrival & Compliance Procedures in Greece

We support you with:

• Entry and border procedures
• Police/municipality registration
• Biometrics and residence permit issuance
• Work authorisation and compliance steps
• Insurance and tax number setup (AMKA/AFM)

Greece Family & Dependent Visa Services

We assist families relocating to Greece with:

• Spouse and dependent child visas
• Family reunification applications
• Long-stay residence rights for dependents
• Guidance on schooling and settlement

Your family’s transition to Greece is handled with care and compliance.

Greece Immigration Solutions for Employers & Recruiters

Greece relies heavily on foreign workers in multiple key sectors, such as:

• Tourism, hotels & restaurants
• Agriculture & seasonal farming
• Construction & skilled trades
• Logistics, warehousing & transportation
• Healthcare & support services
• Manufacturing & food processing
• Seafront hospitality & island tourism roles

We assist employers with:

• Proper sponsorship and documentation
• Seasonal permit quota management
• Full preparation of employee work permit files
• Residence permit coordination
• Large-scale foreign workforce mobility programs
• HR and legal coordination throughout the process

We ensure foreign employees receive valid Greek permits promptly and legally.

Executive Mobility Services for Greece

For executives and senior professionals, we offer:

• Priority case strategy
• Confidential and secure processing
• Tailored mobility planning
• Accelerated document preparation
• Close coordination with HR/legal departments

Digital Greece Immigration Tracking System

Our technology-driven platform provides:

• 24/7 real-time case status
• Secure digital document uploads
• Step-by-step milestone updates
• Renewal alerts and compliance notifications
• Legal and immigration updates

Ideal for both individuals and HR teams managing multiple workers.

Why Choose Moving2Europe.eu for Greece Immigration?

• Strong expertise in Greek work permits & immigration law
• Accurate and compliant preparation of all files
• Dedicated case managers for every client
• Support for individuals, families and employers
• Clear communication throughout the entire process
• Global immigration network covering 170+ countries
• In-depth understanding of Greek & EU regulations
• Technology-supported, transparent case management

We make the Greek immigration process smooth, predictable and fully compliant.

Start Your Greece Work Permit Process Today

Whether you’re applying for seasonal work, skilled employment, relocating your family or hiring international staff, Moving2Europe.eu ensures a professional, reliable and legally secure Greece immigration experience from start to finish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the main types of Greek work permits?

Greece offers the Seasonal Work Permit, Type D National Visa for Employment, Long-Term Residence Permit, EU Blue Card, and Intra-Company Transfer Permit. Each category depends on job type and contract length.

2. What is the Greece Type D Work Visa?

A long-stay national visa that allows non-EU workers to enter Greece for employment and apply for a residence/work permit upon arrival.

3. What documents are required for a Greek work permit?

You need a passport, a job contract, employer approval, a police clearance, a medical certificate, accommodation proof, and passport photos. Some documents require Greek translation.

4. How long does the Greek work permit process take?

Processing generally takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the embassy and Greek labour authorities.

5. Do I need a job offer to get a work visa for Greece?

Yes, a valid job offer or seasonal employment contract is required for most Greek work permits.

6. What is the Greece Seasonal Work Permit?

A permit for agricultural and tourism jobs, allowing work for up to 6–9 months. It is one of the most common permits for non-EU workers.

7. Can I apply for a Greek work permit from abroad?

Yes, you apply through the Greek Embassy or VFS in your home country once your employer receives approval in Greece.

8. Can Greek employers sponsor foreign workers?

Yes, employers may sponsor workers when labour shortages exist. They must follow salary standards and labour regulations.

9. What is the minimum salary requirement in Greece?

Salaries must meet Greece’s legal minimum wage or sector-specific agreements. Seasonal jobs follow fixed wage regulations.

Do students work in Greece?

Yes, students can work part-time with approval, depending on their residence permit conditions.

11. What are the shortage occupations in Greece?

Agriculture, hospitality, tourism, construction, caregiving, fishing, and food processing roles have consistent worker shortages.

12. Can I bring my family to Greece while working?

Yes, family reunification is available for long-term residence permit holders, not for seasonal workers.

13. Do dependents have the right to work in Greece?

Dependents may work after receiving their own work authorisation or residence permit that includes work rights.

14. What is the Greek EU Blue Card?

A permit for highly skilled workers with high qualifications and a high salary. It offers a more extended stay and access to EU mobility benefits.

15. Can I change employers after receiving a Greek work permit?

Yes, but you must apply for a new authorisation. You cannot begin working for a new employer without approval.

16. Do I need Greek language skills to work in Greece?

Not always. Seasonal and hospitality sectors accept English, while professional and service roles may require basic Greek.

17. Is health insurance mandatory in Greece?

Yes, health insurance is required before obtaining a residence permit. Employers may provide coverage for specific roles.

18. What is the Greece Seasonal Visa for agriculture?

A visa that allows foreign workers to work in farming, harvesting, and rural activities for up to 6 months.

19. Can seasonal workers apply for long-term permits?

No, seasonal visas do not lead to permanent residence. A full-time job contract is required for long-term residency.

20. How do I register my address in Greece?

You must register with the local municipality and present your rental agreement or employer-provided housing documents.

21. Can I apply for permanent residence in Greece?

Yes, after legally living in Greece for five years and fulfilling income and integration requirements.

22. Does Greece hire non-EU workers?

Yes, especially in agriculture, tourism, hospitality, and fishing industries due to labour shortages.

23. What are the most in-demand jobs in Greece?

Farm workers, hotel staff, cleaners, fishermen, cooks, construction helpers, caregivers, and seasonal tourism jobs.

24. Is it challenging to find a job in Greece?

No, seasonal and hospitality roles hire regularly. Skilled roles depend on employer demand and the recognition of qualifications.

25. How long can I stay with a Greek Type D visa?

Usually 90–180 days, depending on the purpose. During this period, you complete the residence permit process in Greece.

26. Can I renew my Greek work permit?

Yes, long-term permits can be renewed if your employment continues. Seasonal licenses must be renewed each year if re-invited.

27. What is a Greek Residence Permit Card?

A biometric card showing your right to live and work in Greece. It must be renewed before expiration.

28. Do I need biometrics for the Greece visa?

Yes, biometrics are required at the embassy and again during the residence permit appointment.

29. Can you submit part of the application?

Yes, Greek employers submit employment approval documents through the Greek Ministry of Labour before you apply for your visa.

30. Is Greece part of the Schengen Area?

Yes, Greece is a Schengen member, allowing free movement within the Schengen zone for residence permit holders.

31. Can I travel through Europe with a Greek residence permit?

Yes, you can travel visa-free within Schengen countries for up to 90 days in any 180 days.

32. What happens if my Greek work permit is refused?

You can appeal or apply for the corrected documents. Most refusals result from incomplete or incorrect paperwork.

33. Does Greece hire drivers and logistics workers?

Yes, companies in logistics and tourism sometimes hire foreign drivers if they meet license conversion requirements.

34. Is Greece a good option for skilled migration?

Yes, Greece’s growing tourism, construction, and service sectors offer stable opportunities for qualified workers.

35. Do my documents need a Greek translation?

Yes, many documents require certified Greek translations. Some may need an apostille or legalisation.

36. Can unskilled workers find jobs in Greece?

Yes, many roles in agriculture, tourism, cleaning, packaging, and fishing are available for unskilled workers.

37. What is the Greece work permit processing time?

On average, 4–8 weeks, depending on employer documents and embassy workload.

38. Are healthcare workers needed in Greece?

Yes, caregivers, nurses, and medical assistants are in demand, but some roles require diploma recognition.

39. Do employers provide accommodation in Greece?

Many seasonal employers offer free or subsidised housing. Long-term employers may assist with accommodation arrangements.

40. What is the labour market test in Greece?

Some roles require proving that no local worker is available. Seasonal jobs often bypass this requirement.

41. Can I work while my permit is processing?

No, you must wait for your Type D visa and residence permit before starting work.

42. Is there an age limit for Greek work permits?

There is no strict age limit, but you must meet job and health requirements specified by employers.

43. Can I convert a tourist visa into a work visa in Greece?

No, Greece does not allow conversion. You must apply from your home country with employer sponsorship.

44. Does Greece offer unskilled job opportunities?

Yes, particularly in agriculture, hotel housekeeping, fishing, cleaning, and seasonal tourism sectors.

45. Are biometrics required again after arrival?

Yes, biometrics are taken during your residence permit appointment at the Greek immigration office.

46. Does Greece have a digital nomad visa?

Yes, Greece offers a Digital Nomad Visa for remote workers employed by companies outside Greece.

47. What are the highest-paying sectors in Greece?

IT, engineering, shipping, healthcare, hospitality management, and finance often provide higher salaries.

48. Does Moving2Europe.eu help with Greece visa processing?

Yes, we assist with job matching, employer sponsorship, documentation, embassy applications, and the steps for obtaining a residence permit.

49. Can working in Greece lead to permanent residence?

Yes, long-term workers may apply for permanent residence after five years of legal stay.

50. How can I start my Greece work visa application?

Submit your CV to Moving2Europe.eu, choose your preferred job sector, and we handle employer coordination and visa processing.

Professional Assistance with M2S Group Sp. z o.o.

M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Provides expert assistance for obtaining Greek Work Visas, Work Permits, and Residence Cards.

Our professional team helps with verified job offers, document preparation, and embassy coordination — ensuring your process is legal, transparent, and stress-free.

To start your career in Greece with trusted guidance, contact M2S Group Sp. z o.o. Today, take a confident step toward your future in European employment.