Greece has become an increasingly attractive destination for job seekers from abroad — especially those looking for opportunities in tourism, tech, education, and seasonal work. For EU citizens, working in Greece is relatively straightforward.
For non-EU citizens, on the other hand, the process involves more preparation, paperwork, and legal steps. This, however, should not necessarily dissuade non-EU workers from considering Greece. According to
recent data, the employment rate of non-EU nationals between 20 and 64 years old in Greece was 63.80% in December of 2024.
Moreover,
according to OECD, “in 2022, 59,000 new immigrants obtained a residence permit longer than 12 months in Greece (excluding EU citizens), 24% more than in 2021.”
This guide is specifically designed to help non-EU workers understand the differences in employment rights, navigate the bureaucratic process, and build a realistic plan for securing a job in Greece.
Whether you're a recent graduate, a remote worker exploring relocation, or someone seeking a mid-career change, you'll find practical guidance here on what it takes to legally work and live in Greece.
Why Work in Greece?
While
salaries in Greece may be lower than in other parts of Western Europe, the country offers compelling reasons to consider it for your next career move. Job seekers will find opportunities in several growth sectors, including:
Greece also has a well-established expat network, an improving startup ecosystem, and a growing number of companies offering roles that don’t require Greek fluency. Combined with relatively low living costs and access to public healthcare (once insured), these make it a competitive option for international professionals.
Working in Greece as an EU Citizen
If you’re from an EU or EEA country, you have the legal right to live and work in Greece without needing a visa or work permit.
The process is simple:
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Enter the country with your national ID or passport
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Register your presence at the local Alien’s Bureau or Police Department to get a Registration Certificate (Βεβαίωση Εγγραφής)
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Apply for an AFM (Greek tax number) and an AMKA (social insurance number)
This process is mostly administrative and can be completed shortly after arrival. EU citizens can begin working immediately and are entitled to the same labor protections as Greek citizens.
Can Non-EU Citizens Work in Greece?
In short, yes — non-EU citizens can work in Greece, but only if they follow the correct legal process. This typically means:
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Having a valid job offer from a Greek employer
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Applying for a national visa (Type D) for employment
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Receiving a residence and work permit after arriving in Greece
Greece doesn’t operate a broad "open work visa" system. Non-EU citizens cannot simply arrive in the country and look for work.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Job in Greece as a Non-EU Citizen
1. Find a job first
Before you can apply for any type of work visa, you must first secure a job offer. Most Greek employers are only allowed to hire non-EU workers for roles that cannot be filled locally. This typically includes:
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Tourism jobs during peak season
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Tech and IT roles requiring specific skills
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Multilingual customer support positions
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Agricultural work
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Private English teaching (with the right credentials)
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Jobs in Greece: Our platform is tailored for non-Greek job seekers, so it’s a great place to start (and often finish!) your search.
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LinkedIn: Job postings are often made available on LinkedIn. Just make sure to filter by location and language requirements.
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Local Greek job boards: Websites like Jobfind.gr, Kariera.gr, Skywalker.gr can be of great help in your job search.
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Facebook expat and digital nomad groups: Employers often post job openings and opportunities directly in Facebook groups.
Many roles require only English, especially in international companies or customer support centers.
However, knowledge of Greek — even basic — can make a difference in both your job search and everyday life.
2. Get a work visa
Once you have a confirmed job offer, your employer will often submit a request for your employment to the Greek authorities. If approved, you’ll be invited to apply for a national visa (Type D) at the Greek consulate or embassy in your country. This visa is issued for long-term stays and specific purposes, such as employment.
To apply for a work visa, you’ll typically need:
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A valid employment contract
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A formal invitation letter from your employer
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Proof of qualifications (degrees, licenses, etc.)
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A criminal background check from your country
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A valid passport with at least 6 months' validity
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Medical certificate showing you are fit to work
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Passport-size photos
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Visa application fee
Processing times vary by consulate and can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. Once approved, your visa allows you to enter Greece for the purpose of work, but it’s not your final residence permit.
3. Apply for a residence permit
After entering Greece with your Type D visa, the next step is to convert it into a residence and work permit. This should be done within the first 30–90 days of arrival, depending on the terms of your visa.
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Your passport and visa
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Your work contract
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A copy of your rental agreement or proof of address
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Proof of insurance (either from a Greek insurer or public healthcare fund)
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Passport photos and biometric data
You will receive a temporary residence permit receipt, which allows you to legally stay and work in Greece until your full permit is issued (which may take several months).
Register with authorities
Once you’ve submitted your residence permit application, you should also:
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Apply for an AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου) — your Greek tax number. This is essential for working, signing a rental contract, or opening a bank account.
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Get an AMKA or PAAYPA — your social security number, needed for healthcare and employment benefits.
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Optional: Open a Greek bank account (some employers require it for salary payments)
These registrations are often handled at the Tax Office (DOY) and Citizen Service Centers (KEP), depending on your location.
Work Permit Alternatives and Short-Term Options
If you’re not eligible for a traditional work visa, there are other legal avenues worth considering:
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Seasonal Work Permits: Greece issues temporary work permits for agriculture and tourism through bilateral agreements with certain countries. These are usually for up to 6–9 months.
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Digital Nomad Visa: Greece is slowly becoming a hot spot for digital nomads and remote workers. If you work remotely for a non-Greek employer, you may be eligible for Greece’s digital nomad visa, allowing you to live in the country while working online.
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Golden Visa: This is an investment visa, not a work visa. It allows residency through property investment, but it does not grant work rights by default.
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Erasmus+ or Volunteering Programs: Younger professionals can explore NGO work or internship programs through organizations like Erasmus+, often with some legal right to remain in Greece short-term.
Common Challenges for Non-EU Workers in Greece
Working in Greece as a non-EU citizen is possible, but expect some obstacles, including:
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Bureaucracy: Paperwork is often slow and heavily dependent on in-person visits. Delays are common, especially in larger cities.
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Language Barriers: Many official forms and government interactions happen in Greek. Bringing a translator (or local friend) is often essential.
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Translation and Legalization: Foreign documents must be officially translated into Greek and often require an apostille or certification.
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Quotas: There are yearly caps on the number of non-EU workers allowed in each job category. If the quota is filled, your application may not be processed.
Planning ahead and working with an employer experienced in hiring foreigners can ease the process significantly.
Tips for a Successful Job Search
If you're serious about working in Greece, here are some tips to increase your chances:
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Use a European-style CV: Highlight international experience, language skills, and certifications.
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Start early: Visa processing and job applications can take months. Begin well in advance of your intended move.
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Network: Leverage LinkedIn, expat groups, and alumni communities to find referrals or job leads.
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Tailor your search: Look for companies that already have international staff or experience with visa sponsorship.
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Learn some Greek: Although there are in-demand jobs for non-Greek speakers too, even beginner-level language skills can help you navigate daily life, form connections, and integrate more easily.
It’s Your Turn Now!
Securing a job in Greece as a non-EU citizen may sometimes look challenging — but it’s far from impossible. With realistic expectations, persistence, and the right information, you can successfully navigate the process. The key is preparation: understanding your legal options, targeting sectors open to foreign hires, and using the right resources to connect with employers.
Jobs in Greece is here to help simplify your search, whether you're just starting to explore or ready to apply.
Use our job board to discover real opportunities suited to non-Greek and non-EU candidates, and take your next career step with confidence.
Submit your CV and start looking for your ideal job today!