Greece, a member of the European Union, has specific regulations regarding work permits and visas for foreign nationals seeking employment within its borders. Understanding these regulations is crucial for both employers looking to hire international talent and foreign workers planning to pursue career opportunities in Greece. Navigating the Greek immigration system can be complex, involving various visa categories, application procedures, and compliance requirements.
The Greek government aims to balance attracting skilled foreign workers with protecting its domestic labor market. As such, the process for obtaining a work permit and visa can be lengthy and require meticulous attention to detail. Employers often play a crucial role in sponsoring foreign workers, ensuring they meet all necessary legal obligations. Staying informed about the latest updates in immigration law is essential for maintaining compliance and facilitating a smooth transition for foreign employees.
Common Visa Types for Foreign Workers
Several types of visas are available for foreign workers seeking employment in Greece, depending on their qualifications, the nature of their work, and the duration of their stay.
- Type D National Visa (Long-Stay Visa): This is the most common type of visa for employment purposes. It allows foreign nationals to reside and work in Greece for longer than 90 days.
- Intra-Company Transfer Visa: Designed for employees of multinational companies who are being transferred to a Greek branch or subsidiary.
- EU Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals with a university degree or equivalent qualification who have a job offer with a salary exceeding a certain threshold.
- Seasonal Work Visa: For individuals employed in seasonal industries such as tourism or agriculture.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Duration | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type D National Visa | Long-term employment | > 90 days | Job offer, proof of qualifications, clean criminal record, health insurance |
| Intra-Company Transfer Visa | Transfer within a multinational company | Up to 3 years | Employment with the company for a minimum period, managerial or specialized skills |
| EU Blue Card | Highly qualified professionals | 1-2 years (renewable) | University degree, minimum salary threshold, job offer |
| Seasonal Work Visa | Employment in seasonal industries (tourism, agriculture) | Up to 9 months | Job offer from a seasonal employer, proof of accommodation |
Work Permit Application Requirements and Procedures
The process for obtaining a work permit in Greece typically involves several steps, including employer sponsorship, document submission, and government review.
- Job Offer: The process usually starts with a Greek employer offering a job to a foreign national.
- Employer Sponsorship: The employer must demonstrate that there are no qualified Greek or EU citizens available to fill the position. They must apply for permission from the Greek authorities to hire a foreign worker.
- Document Submission: Once employer sponsorship is approved, the foreign worker must gather and submit all required documents.
- Visa Application: The applicant needs to apply for the appropriate visa at the Greek embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
- Work Permit Issuance: Upon approval of the visa application and arrival in Greece, the foreign worker can obtain the work permit from the relevant authorities.
Required Documents:
- Valid passport
- Job offer letter
- Proof of qualifications (degrees, certifications)
- Criminal record certificate
- Health insurance
- Photos
- Application forms
- Employer sponsorship documents
Processing Times and Fees:
The processing time for a work permit can vary, but it generally takes several months. The fees associated with the application process also vary depending on the type of visa and the specific circumstances of the applicant.
| Step | Estimated Time | Fees (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Employer Sponsorship | 2-4 months | 150-300 |
| Visa Application | 1-2 months | 75-150 |
| Work Permit Issuance | 1-2 months | 100-200 |
| Total (Approximate) | 4-8 months | 325-650 |
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Foreign workers who have legally resided and worked in Greece for a continuous period may be eligible to apply for permanent residency. The specific requirements for permanent residency may include:
- Continuous legal residence in Greece for a minimum number of years (typically 5 years)
- Sufficient knowledge of the Greek language and culture
- Financial stability
- Clean criminal record
- Integration into Greek society
Dependent Visa Options
Family members of foreign workers holding a valid Greek visa or residence permit may be eligible to apply for a dependent visa. Eligible family members typically include spouses and dependent children. The requirements for a dependent visa usually include:
- Proof of relationship to the primary visa holder (marriage certificate, birth certificate)
- Proof of financial support from the primary visa holder
- Health insurance
Visa Compliance Obligations for Employers and Employees
Both employers and employees have obligations to ensure compliance with Greek immigration laws.
Employer Obligations:
- Ensure foreign workers have the necessary work permits and visas.
- Comply with labor laws and regulations.
- Report any changes in employment status to the authorities.
- Maintain accurate records of foreign employees.
Employee Obligations:
- Comply with the terms and conditions of their visa and work permit.
- Notify the authorities of any changes in address or employment status.
- Adhere to Greek laws and regulations.
- Renew their visa and work permit before they expire.
Failure to comply with Greek immigration laws can result in penalties, including fines, deportation, and legal action.
