Work Permit in Greece

A member of the European Union and one of the most attractive tourist destinations, Greece is developing fast as an appealing place to do business with, as well as work in. The problem of getting a work permit in Greece is an essential issue for foreign citizens willing to be employed in this country. This article will analyze the main legal and business aspects of obtaining and using a work permit in Greece.

Legal framework

Legislative framework

Employment licensing in Greece is basically provided by several pieces of legislation; among them, the most relevant are the following:

• Law No. 4251/2014 “Migration and Social Integration Code”
• Act No. 3386/2005 on the entry, stay and social integration of third-country nationals on Greek territory

These two laws establish the terms and conditions for foreign nationals willing to work in Greece:

Types of working authorisations

Depending on the nature and duration, there are several types of work permits in Greece: work permits for seasonal workers and for workers on short-term projects; work permits for permanent employment in Greek companies; authorisations for highly qualified professionals in professions requiring a high level of expertise.

It starts with the Greek employer’s invitation to work, which the foreign national has to obtain before the application for a work permit. In turn, the employer must show that there is no suitable candidate to hold this position among Greek or EU citizens.

Application

The following is the procedure for submitting an application:

1. Gathering of documents: Passport, work contract, proof of qualification, health insurance, and other needed documents.
2. Application – Filing: The application shall be filed with the local office of the Migration Department or with a Greek consular office abroad.
3. Fees: There are specific governmental fees payable whose amount varies depending on the type of permit.
4. Waiting for processing: The time required for processing the application ranges from some weeks to several months.

Obtaining and renewing authorisation

A work permit is granted upon approval, after which a certain period of time is provided for its utilization. It is renewable upon providing a valid contract and completion of all requirements.

Business aspects

Impact on business

This approach can rapidly heighten the competitiveness of Greek firms in certain sectors that need highly qualified work. Flexibility in hiring foreign workers provides speed in response to changes in the marketplace and in innovation in company operations.

Legalisation and taxation

Foreign workers have to be registered with the local authorities and obtain a tax number. In accordance with Greek Tax law they are obliged to pay taxes. The employers must formalize the employment relation properly and pay the proper taxes.

Social guarantees

Work permits give foreign workers social guarantees, such as health insurance and pension accumulation. All this, of course, creates a stable living and working environment that is so necessary for long-term business planning.

What is the Greece work visa?

Being an influential member of the European Union and a key player in the Mediterranean region, Greece opens up vistas on many fronts before foreign professionals and entrepreneurs. The question of obtaining a work visa for Greece is already an issue that gets more and more important among people who want to work or develop their business in this country. Below, we will consider several important legal and business aspects connected with the process of obtaining a work visa to Greece.

How to apply for the Greece work visa in 2024?

In 2024, Greece remains a popular destination for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs alike. Getting a work visa to Greece is subject to a number of procedures and preparatory steps. Further, below we will consider in detail the key steps and legal requirements necessary for successful receipt of a work visa to Greece in 2024.

How can I get an Greece work visa and permit?

How do I get a Greece work visa and permit? Because of its strategic position and membership in the European Union, Greece offers great opportunities for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs alike. For foreign nationals who wish to work or practice in Greece, applying for a work visa and license is an essential procedure. In this article, we look at the salient legal and business issues in the application for a work visa and license in Greece.

Legal framework

Legislative framework

The procedure of obtaining a work visa and work permit is under the following law:

• Law No. 4251/2014 “Migration and Social Integration Code”
• Act No. 3386/2005 on the entry, stay, and social integration of third-country nationals on Greek territory

They set the conditions and procedures for entry, stay, and employment in Greece.

Types of work visas and permits

Depending on the purpose and period of stay, there are various types of working visas and permits:

• Short-term work visas, Type C – for seasonal workers, short-term projects, and business trips;
• Long-term working visa, Type D – for permanent employment and entrepreneurial activity;
• Permits for highly qualified professionals – for specialists in the field of science, technology, medicine, and other high-tech fields.

2. Preliminary activities

Receiving an invitation for work

This is a formal invitation to a job by an employer in Greece; his first step must be to confirm a vacancy through verification that no suitable candidate could be found among Greek or EU citizens.

Preparation of Documents

The documents you will prepare for application to both a work visa and work permit include:

Foreign passport with at least a 6-month validity date from your intended date of entry

Labour contract or official invitation to work

Confirmation of qualifications (diplomas, certificates)

Health insurance

Financial documents which prove that the applicant has sufficient means of support for the period of stay

Passport size photos

3. Application process

Application submission

The application for the work visa has to be filed with the Greek consular office in the country of residence. It is also possible to apply through the local office of the Department of Migration in Greece in case the applicant is already in Greece.

Payment of fees

State fees are payable against the processing of the application. The amount of these fees varies according to type and length of stay.

Application consideration

The application procedure may take several weeks or even months. Within this time, the consulate might ask for additional documentation or information.

Visa issue and admission to Greece

Upon approval of the application, an applicant is issued a work visa that can enable him/her to enter Greece. On-site, one has to be registered with local authorities and issued with a work permit.

4. Business aspects

Impact on business

Having the work visa and work permit means that Greek companies may attract foreign professionals and hence be more competitive. The impact is particularly relevant to those industries which demand very highly skilled labour and international experience.

Legalisation and taxation

Foreign employees need to be registered with the Greek tax authorities and get a tax number. On the company side, all tax obligations shall be met, which implies good tax planning and accounting.

Social guarantees

Work visa and work permit create conditions for access of foreign workers to the social guarantees, such as health insurance and pension savings. This is a way to create a stable living and working environment that favours long-term business planning.

What documents do I need for Greece work visa application?

Getting a work visa to Greece is a long process, where one needs to follow all the rules. The big part of this process is to gather and submit the documents. In this article, we will look at what documents are required for applying for a work visa to Greece and analyze some legal and business aspects of this process.

Where and when can you apply for a Greek work visa?

Obtaining a work visa in Greece is one of the most important procedures foreign professionals or entrepreneurs will have to go through once they are working or building up a business in this country. Being aware of at which and from which moment in time it is necessary to file an application for a work visa plays a major role in receiving the right authorization. We note herein that the below review contains both legal and business aspects related to the application process of a work visa in Greece.

Where to apply

Greek Consular Offices Abroad

The main application centre for a work visa is the Greek consular offices in the country of residence of the applicant. The application is sent through the Consulates and embassies, interview the visa applicant, and then issue a visa, provided that all criteria are met. For the nearest consulate, you may contact the official website of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Visa Application Centres

In some countries, Greece cooperates with visa centres which make application easier. Such visa centres provide an information support, take the documents and forward them for processing to consulates. Visa centres may also offer additional services such as translation of documents and health insurance.

Domestic authorities in Greece

Moreover, it is possible for him/her to submit his/her application for a work visa or an extension of the residence work visa at the competent local offices of the Migration Department, if he is already in Greece. This holds especially for those cases who are in Greece in possession of another type of visa category and intend to switch into a different status.

When to apply

Application deadlines

It is advised to file an application for a work visa 3 months in advance of the expected date of entry to Greece. This recommendation is explained by the fact that the whole process can take significant time, including verification of documents and interviews.

Seasonal fluctuations

Seasonal factors can impact on the processing period. Consequently, there is a possibility of longer periods during summer and holidays when applications pile up in large numbers. That is the reason why one may be advised to apply in other months of the year when the consulates are not as busy.

Visa renewal and extension

If the applicant already has a work visa, which however will soon expire, an extension should be cared for in due time. Such application for extension must be submitted at least 30 days before the end of the current visa.

Business aspects

Impact on business

On-time and correct processing of work visas is essential to companies recruiting expatriates. Inability to get visas in time will delay the projects and cause loss of precious human resources.

Human resource planning

Companies must remember that some time is consumed in visa processing and hence must plan their staffing needs well in advance. Accordingly, sufficient time should be given for preparation and submission of all documents.

Employee support

It also extends support to the foreign employees of the company in the process of application by providing counseling, collecting documents, and liaising with consular offices. In this way, the whole process of application for a visa will be easier and time-saving.

How long is the work visa to Greece valid for?

A work visa to Greece allows foreign professionals and entrepreneurs to work legally in the country. Knowledge of the period of validity of a visa and under what conditions it can be renewed plays a great role in career and business planning. In the article, we will review legal and business aspects related to the validity of a work visa to Greece.

Types of work visas and their duration

Of short duration the work visa

Short-term work visas will be intended for seasonal workers, participants in short-term projects, business trips. The maximum validity of this visa is 90 days within a 180-day period. This category is the one which would apply to professionals who will be working in Greece on a temporary basis.

Of long duration the work visas

Long-term work visas are intended for foreign citizens who are going to stay and work in Greece for a long period. It usually has a validity period of one to two years with the possibility of renewal. This category applies to applicants with plans for permanent employment or business activities in Greece.

Visas for highly qualified specialists

The visas for highly qualified specialists are issued for the period of one to four years, depending on the specifics of work and the level of qualification. Such visas have been created for specialists in the field of science, technology, medicine, and other high-tech industries.

The procedure for visa extension

Deadlines for the submission of the application for renewal

Applications for work visa extension should be submitted at least 30 days before the date of expiry. The application for a work visa extension should also be sent to a local office of the Department of Migration in Greece. If an application is mailed after the deadline, it may be denied, and one may be forced to leave the country.

Documents required for renewal

To extend your work visa, you will need to provide:

• Foreign passport with valid visa
• An employment contract or proof of continued employment relationship
• Proof of qualification: Where required
• Health insurance
• Financial documents proving sufficient funds for living
• Application completed for the extension of visa

Time of consideration of the application

The processing of a work visa extension application takes some weeks or even months depending on the workload of the migration authorities. This should be taken into consideration when a visa extension is planned.

Business aspects

Human resource planning

The company should pay attention to the date of visa expiry for the expatriate employee and plan human resources by considering visa renewals in order to avoid unplanned interruptions and loss of key personnel.

Staff support

The company may provide legal and administrative support to foreign employees in renewing their visas. This would also include advice on document collection, liaison with migration authorities, and the payment of fees. This can enhance employee loyalty and productivity.

Financial planning

The company should plan expenses in the renewal of a visa and other related expenses, which also include all the fees payable, medical insurance, and any other expense. Only proper financial planning will help to avoid unexpected costs and ensure business stability.

Is it possible for foreigners to work in Greece?

Being a part of the European Union, Greece opens wide perspectives both for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs. However, the question of the right of foreigners to work in this country is not so evident. In this article below, we would like to discuss legal and business aspects related to the employment opportunities for foreign nationals in Greece.

1. Legal framework

Legislative framework

Employment opportunities for foreign nationals in Greece are regulated by the following legislation:

• Law No. 4251/2014 “Migration and Social Integration Code”
• Act No. 3386/2005 about the entry, residence and social integration of third-country nationals in Greek territory

These laws include provisions which determine the conditions and terms in which foreigners are given an opportunity to work in Greece.

Work visas and permits

A work visa and a work permit are required for foreigners who want to work in Greece. Depending on the purpose and duration of stay, there are different types of visas:

• 1. Short-term work visas (type C): These include seasonal, cultural or commercial visits, and training.
• 2. Long-term work visa (type D): For those who need an employment relationship with enterprises, organizations, or other forms of employers in the country.
• 3. Visa for highly qualified specialists.

2. In what conditions?

The conditions under which employment is offered vary depending on nationality and the nature of the employment.

Therefore, the residents of the EU and EEA have a right to work in Greece without having to apply for a work visa; instead, they have to register with local authorities and obtain a tax number.

Third-country nationals

The usual residents of non-EU and EEA countries have to go through a work visa and work permit procedure. This process involves a few steps:

1. Getting a work invitation from an employer in Greece
2. Preparing and submitting the documents which will be required
3. Holding an interview at the Greek Consulate
4. Getting a visa and entering Greece

3. The procedure for obtaining a work permit

Document preparation

The following documents should be prepared for obtaining a work permit:

• Foreign passport
• Labour contract or invitation to work
• Verification of qualifications
• Health insurance
• Financial documents
• Application for a work permit

Submission of application

The application will need to be made to the Greek consular office in their country of residence, or to the local unit of the Department of Migration in Greece.

Application considerations

The whole application procedure may take several weeks, if not months. In this period, the consulate or migration authorities might require additional documents or information.

4. Business aspects

Impact on business

The attraction of foreign professionals can have a major positive impact on the competitiveness of Greek companies. Foreign workers bring new knowledge and experience and international contacts, which fosters innovation and business development.

Legalisation and taxation

Foreign workers must also be registered with the Greek tax and obtain a tax number. The companies are obliged to pay all their taxes and maintain records of financial activities, as provided for by law.

Social guarantees

Work visas and work permits provide foreign workers with the right to social securities such as health insurance and saving on pension. The above-mentioned social securities give a family a stable living and working environment, one that is favourable for long-term business planning.

Types of work visa in Greece

Greece is a member of the European Union and, therefore, opens many opportunities for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs. Of all the questions arising when considering employment in Greece, the choice of a proper type of work visa is one of the most important. In the article below, we look at the main types of work visa in Greece, their legal features, and business aspects related to its obtaining and use.

Greece work permit requirements

As a European Union member-state and a key business hub in the Mediterranean, Greece offers various opportunities both for foreign professionals and entrepreneurs. Obtaining a work permit is one of the most important steps toward legal employment in Greece. In this article, we look into some basic requirements for obtaining a work permit in Greece and consider some legal and business aspects of the process.

Obtaining a work permit in Greece requires the fulfillment of several legal requirements and prudent preparation of documents. Enterprises that are going to employ foreign specialists should consider all aspects of visa legislation in order to employ legally and in accordance with the law. The right issuance of a work permit means business development and its competitiveness enhancement in the international market.

Work permits in Greece

Greece is a favorite destination for foreign professionals. This can be attributed to the strategic location, stable economy, and high quality of life. In order for one to work legally in the country, there is the need to obtain the proper work permit.

Principal kinds of work permits in Greece

Working visa for short-term stay

For third country nationals who plan to work in Greece for a period of up to 90 days within a period of 180 days, there is an option to apply for a visa for short-term working. It is issued mainly for the execution of specific projects or for short-term employment contracts.

Working visa for long-term stay

To be employed in Greece for a longer period than just 90 days, a long-term work visa should be obtained – widely known as a D-visa. This is for third country nationals who want to be employed in Greece for a period of more than 90 days. This permit will be required when obtaining a work permit and residence permit.

EU Blue Card (EU Blue Card)

The EU Blue Card is intended for highly qualified professionals who plan to work in Greece. It allows to work and reside in the country and facilitates movement in other EU Member States. The Blue Card is granted for a period of up to 4 years and can be renewed.

Work permits for entrepreneurs

There is a special work permit for entrepreneurs; once you want to open an entrepreneur business or practice in your firm in Greece, you should obtain the relevant permit. On the ground of this permit, you have the right to engage in entrepreneurial activities and conduct business in Greece.

2 Requirements for issuing a work permit

Existence of a labour contract

One of the main conditions to issue a work permit is the existence of an employment contract with an employer based in Greece. The contract shall be concluded prior to the application either for a visa or a work permit with all the terms and conditions of employment, including job duties, salary and working hours.

Documents and certificates

Following is a list of some documents that will be required to apply for a work permit:

• A valid passport.
• Labor contract.
• Certificate of Health Insurance.
• Documents confirming qualifications and professional skills (diplomas, certificates, etc.).
• Certificate of financial solvency.

Labor Market Check

In some cases, it may be required to prove that the vacant position cannot be occupied by a candidate from Greece or other EU states. It is normally done by announcing the vacancy and waiting for some period of time.

3 Application procedure for a work permit

Lodging the application

The application procedure for a work permit starts by applying for a long-term visa, based on which you will be able to apply for both a work permit and a residence permit. The application shall be filed with the Greek Consulate or Visa Centre in your country of origin.

Processing and examination

Your case will be considered for a few weeks or months, depending on the complexity and completeness of the documents submitted. It is important to realise that timescales can very often be longer at certain periods, which may occur at particular times of the year when there is greater demand for work visas.

Getting permission

Once your application is approved, you will have a work permit issued in addition to a residence permit that will allow you to stay and work legally in Greece within the period of time stated in the permit.

4 Características y consejos

Recourse to professionals

Obtaining a work permit might be complex and require much attention to detail. Legal and migration advice may facilitate the process substantially and avoid mistakes.

Compliance with requirements

It is very important to follow all requirements and deadlines of the submission of documents strictly. The refusal of the permit might be the result of incorrectly filled-in forms or missing documents.

Relevance of information

Legislation and procedures on issuing work permits are also subject to change. Given this fact, one should occasionally verify the existing requirements and recent developments in Greek migration policy.

Obtaining a work permit in Greece requires certain steps and requirements, which regard the type of permit, based on the objectives, gathering necessary documentation, and observing established procedures. Professional help and attention to detail will contribute to successful receipt of permission to begin your career in Greece.

Do I need a visa to work in Greece?

For a foreigner, the dimension of working in Greece is quite alluring, considering the excellent lifestyle and strategic location in Southern Europe. However, it is good to understand beforehand if a visa is required to work in Greece and what is needed to be legally employed.

Working in Greece requires the right visa if you are not a citizen of either the EU or EFTA. Proper understanding of requirements and preparation of necessary documents will help you to successfully complete the work visa obtaining process and start your career in Greece. Following all the procedures and consulting with professionals will allow you to effectively deal with all the issues related to legal employment in this beautiful country.

Types of Greece work permits

Greece, due to its strategic location in Southern Europe, high quality of life, and attractive business environment, is a popular destination for foreign workers. In order to be able to work legally in the country, the proper work permit should be obtained.

Working visa for short-term stay

Schengen visa (Short-stay visa)

The Schengen Short Term Working Visa may be issued to third country nationals who would like to work in Greece for up to 90 days within a period of 180 days. This type of visa is applicable in cases of temporary missions or participation in conferences, exhibitions, or short-term projects.

Essential characteristics:

• Validity: up to 90 days within a period of 180 days.
• Purposes of use: short business missions, participation in business events.
• Documents required: invitation from a Greek employer, proof of purpose of travel, medical insurance, financial documents.

Long-term working visa

Category D visa (Long-stay visa)

Category D long-term work visa will be required for working in Greece for a period of over 90 days. This is intended for foreigners who have received a labour offer from an employer and have the need to spend extended time in the country.

Key characteristics:

• Term of validity: depends on the term of the labour contract, but not more than 1 year with the possibility of prolongation.
• Purposes of use: long-term employment in Greece.
• Required documents: employment contract, proof of financial solvency, health insurance, proof of housing.

EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card targets highly qualified employees who want to be employed in Greece. It has many privileges, such as the possibility of working in other EU countries, an easy procedure for a residence permit, etc.

Main characteristics:

• Validity: up to 4 years – renewable.
• Purpose: work for highly qualified professions.
• Documents required: a copy of the employment contract with a Greek employer; your diplomas and qualification certificates; health insurance; proof of financial solvency.

Work permit for entrepreneurs

Work permits for entrepreneurs

Foreigners who want to start a new business on the territory of Greece or take an already operating company under control are eligible for a work permit for entrepreneurs. The work permit for entrepreneurs will give the right to perform entrepreneurial activity and manage a company in Greece.

Key characteristics:

• Duration: determined by the duration of the business project or entrepreneurial activity.
• Purposes of use: business management, starting a new business.
• Required documents: business plan, proof of financial solvency, company registration documents, health insurance.

Work permit for seasonal workers

Seasonal work permit

A seasonal work permit is issued to those working within the frameworks of seasonal industries; for example, agriculture or tourism, for a restricted period, in order to provide insurance for the seasonal needs of the labour market.

Key features:

• Duration: up to 6 months per year.
• Purposes of use: seasonal work in agriculture, tourism, and other seasonal industries.
• Required documents: labour contract, documents confirming the seasonal nature of work, medical insurance.

General conditions for a work permit

Existence of a labour contract

All work permit types require the existence of a valid employment contract with an employer having its headquarters or a branch in Greece, providing all employment terms and conditions of the employee, such as working hours and salary, and including a description of his duties.

Documents and certificates

Depending on the type of permit, these may include:

• valid passport
• Visa Application Form
• Labour contract
• Health Insurance Certificate.
• Documents that prove financial solvency.
• Other supporting documents: Requirements vary depending on the type of license.

Application process

Application for a work permit is done by lodging your documents at the Greek Consulate or Visa Application Centre in your country. Note that the procedural times are longer depending on the type of authorisation and on the complexity of your case.

Within this context, Greek labor legislation provides for various types of work permits that correspond to different needs and purposes for foreign workers—from short-term visas to highly-skilled EU Blue Cards. Each type has its own peculiarities and requirements. Only correct understanding and following all requirements will lead you successfully through the permit process and onward to your career in Greece. Professional counseling and thorough attention to the preparation of documents will be able to significantly ease this process.

EU blue card in Greece

The EU Blue Card is the tool for attracting highly qualified workers from outside the EU. It gives the opportunity to work and reside in any EU country, hence in Greece as well, with several exclusive advantages for highly qualified professionals.

The EU Blue Card opens new opportunities for highly qualified professionals to work and live both in Greece and beyond. Meeting the requirements and completing the formalities in the right manner will enable you to successfully finalize the Blue Card process and fully exploit its benefits. For any questions or help that you might need at each stage of the authorisation process, do not hesitate to contact our professional consultants.

Applying for a Greece work visa

Applying for a work visa in Greece: A complete guide

Greece can be a very appealing destination for foreign professionals, with its beautiful landscapes, high quality of life and developed economy. To be legally employed in the country, one needs to apply for a work visa. In this article, we will be discussing how to apply for a work visa for Greece, key requirements, steps, and some useful tips.

Obtaining a work visa is believed to be the most significant step for legal employment and residence in Greece. Carefully prepared documents, compliance with all requirements, correct fulfillment of all formalities will help you successfully complete the visa process and start working in Greece. Consult professional counsellors when necessary to make the process easier and avoid possible complications.

What documents are required for work permit in Greece?

Obtaining a work permit in Greece is the first step for foreigners who want to be employed in one of the most beautiful and dynamic European countries. Under Greek law, there are various formal requirements that need to be considered along with specific documents which must be submitted for acquiring a work permit.

Basic documents

Passport

The valid passport is the main document of support for the application for a work permit. Passport shall be valid at least for 6 months from the date of the application process. The passport should have sufficient free pages for visas and stamps.

Work Permit Application Form Completed

The said questionnaire, duly fulfilled, needs to be directly submitted to the Greek migration authorities. These questionnaires include personal information, work details, employer information, and other important data.

Labour contract

A document required to accompany a job offer: Company Name – should be mentioned; Position – designation must be there; Working Conditions – must be defined; and the salary level, with a minimum requirement for qualification purposes.

Documents confirming qualification

Copies of diplomas and certificates as well as other documents proving your qualifications and experience. These documents need to be translated into Greek and notarised if required.

Certificate of no criminal record

A document confirming that you have no criminal record. A certificate from the country of citizenship or country of residence at the time of application is usually required.

Medical insurance

Health insurance, valid in Greece and covering all necessary medical services for the period of your stay in the country.

Proof of financial solvency

Bank statements or income certificates proving your financial solvency. These are documents that prove you can support yourself in Greece until you start receiving your salary.

Photos

Photographs – in a format that meets the requirements of the visa application centre or consulate. Usually, a number of colour photographs that meet the standards are to be submitted.

Additional documents, depending on the type of authorization

Long-term work visa (D-type visa)

Extra document for long-term work visas might include:

• A copy of a document confirming your professional experience or relevant qualifications.
• The confirmation that the labour activity cannot be performed by an EU citizen.

Short-term work visas (C-type visa)

It is possible that short-term visas may require:

• A supporting document which proves the short-term nature of the work – for example, a fixed-term contract or invitation from the employer.

Application process

Preparation and verification of documents

Before submitting the application, make sure of the completeness and translation into Greek of all of the documents. Have certification of all the required documents and that they are ready for submission.

Submission of documents

The applicant submits the documents presented to the Greek Consulate in his country or a visa application centre. The application in certain cases can also be submitted to the migration authorities in Greece.

Payment of visa fee

A visa application fee will be charged at the time of application. The amount is to be determined by the visa type and duration of stay.

Awaiting a decision

After the document submission, wait for the decision of the migration authorities. The processing time may depend on the case’s complexity and consulate workload.

Useful tips

Timely execution

Have your documents ready beforehand, and apply early to avoid delays, especially if your case is urgent.

Professional Assistance

If you cannot trust the correctness of the preparation, consult professional immigration consultants who will help in correctly preparing the documents and going through the process without glitches.

Latest Information

Immigration laws are subject to change; therefore, it will be of essence to check the requirements and procedures in recent time through their official websites, or consulate and visa application centre.

Obtaining a work permit in Greece is complicated and requires great preparation with regard to adherence to all the formalities. The key to a successful work permit application is the preparation of a full set of documents according to the requirements of the migration authorities. If you have any questions or difficulties, contact professionals and follow all requirements for successful obtention of a work permit and legal employment in Greece.

Work Visa Processing Time in Greece

Greece is a country from the European Union that has opened wide its doors to many foreign professionals wanting to work within its borders. Getting a visa to work may be a bit difficult and time-consuming. The following is the main process for obtaining a work visa.

The Main Steps of Work Visa Process

Document Preparation

First, before applying for a work visa in Greece, one needs to prepare all the documents, which may include an application form, preparation of the employment contract, proof of qualifications and health insurance. This is the stage where you need to ensure that all documents have met the consulate requirements and are translated into Greek.

Application submission

Documents are submitted to the Greek Consulate in your country or to a visa application centre. Once an application is submitted, the processing of the application starts and this includes the verification of all the documents submitted.

Awaiting a decision

After the application for a work visa in Greece follows the wait for the decision of the migration authorities. The processing time is at the discretion of several factors such as the complexity of the case, completeness, and workload of the consulate.

Average processing time of a work visa in Greece

Type D visa (long-term visa)

Obtaining a D-type long-term work visa normally takes 1 to 3 months. Because, in order to obtain the long-term visa, there should be carried out more profound document check and additional procedure for the work permit.

Type C visa (short-term visa)

In general, short-term C visas take less time to be processed, about 2-4 weeks. This is because short-term visas require less verification and documentation as compared to long-term visas.

3 Factors determining actual time of processing

Completeness and correctness of documents

One of the leading factors that contribute to the processing time of a visa includes completeness and correctness of the submitted documents. Incorrect or incomplete documents may lead to delays, requests for additional information, or even visa refusal.

Consulate congestion

Processing time can also be a function of the prevailing workload in the consulate or visa application centre. The waiting time increases during periods of high demand in the tourist season.

Verification of qualification and employment contract

Qualification and verification of the employment contract do take time. In such instances where additional verification or consultation with the employer is required, it may increase the overall time it takes to process this document.

The complexity of your case

If your application needs further examination or verification (for example, because of the peculiarities of your profession or your work contract), this could be a factor that will make you wait longer.

How to speed up the visa application process

Thorough preparation of documents

Make sure that all the documents you provide are fully in line with the requirements of the consulate. Meaning – correctly filled-in application forms, translation of the documents and their authorisation.

Professional help

You can also hire immigration counselors or attorneys who can help you prepare all the documents correctly and speed up the process.

Apply early

Early application of your visa will help in case there is an issue with the processing. It is very vital especially when you have some certain time limit to start working in Greece.

Periodical checking of status

Remember your application status and, where necessary, call the consulate or visa application centre.

Useful tips

Prepare all necessary documents well in advance

Keep all documents, which have to be sent with your application, ready and properly filled out. In this way, the submission and verification phase will not be delayed.

Stay in contact with your employer

Your Greek employer is highly relevant to your application procedure. Keep regular contact with him/her to get recent information and confirmation of your employment contract.

Additional checks might be required

Sometimes, the consulate requires further documentation or additional information. Being prepared for this may make all the difference in order not to delay the process.

Obtaining a work visa in Greece can be quite an urgent and sensitive process; a number of steps have to be well considered and taken accordingly. The normal time of processing varies according to the category of visa; though dependent on factors such as completeness of the file, workload at the consulate, and the complexity of the case, one has to be properly aware of how to get advance preparation, proper paperwork, and professional help in the best possible way.

Greece work visa requirements

Greece is an appealing country for foreigners who want to work and live in Europe. At the same time, to be able to legally work in Greece, a corresponding work visa needs to be obtained.

Obtaining a work visa in Greece requires serious preparation and follow-through on all the formalities. A full package of documents, plus the application form, correctly executed, is the guarantee of a successful receipt of a visa. Following all recommendations and requirements will help to speed up the process and employ you successfully in Greece.

How can Regulated United Europe assist in getting a work permit in Greece?

Regulated United Europe is a law firm that specialises in legal assistance for foreign citizens in labour migration and business matters in Europe. One of the main activities of our company is assisting clients in obtaining a work permit in Greece.

Drawing up the necessary documents

Obtaining a work permit in Greece requires serious preparation and a lot of documents. We offer a full scope of services for preparation of all the necessary paperwork, including but not limited to the following:

Advisory on requirements

We will be happy to provide detailed information on what documents you need to submit for a work permit and assist you in collecting and organizing them in a way that meets all the Greek migration authorities’ requirements.

Preparation of documents

Our specialists will help in the preparation of all the required documents such as the employment contract, proof of qualification, health insurance, police certificate of good conduct, and all other documents that will be needed for your application.

Verification and submission of documents

We will verify all the prepared documents for completeness and sufficiency. We then forward your application to the consulate or the centre for visa applications with the view of ensuring timely processing.

Recruitment agency search

If you don’t have a job offer yet in Greece, we can help you to find a serious recruitment agency that offers you an appropriate vacancy. Our company will provide:

Agency Search and Selection

We will help you to find an experienced recruitment agency specializing in the hiring of foreign nationals in Greece. We will send you a short list of recommended agencies and will support you in selecting the right partner.

Drawing up and sending CVs

Our experts will help you to create a professional resume and cover letter that satisfy the requirements of the Greek labour market. We will also send your resume to your potential employers in Greece. This will enhance your chances of getting offered a job.

Proper preparation: Key to success

Note that some of the grounds for refusal may come because of insufficient training and due to an offer of employment not being available. Therefore:

Full package of documents

We will provide you with a full package of documents needed for obtaining a work permit to avoid rejections based on incomplete or incorrectly prepared documentation.

Availability of an employer

An official job offer from the employer in Greece is necessary to grant a work permit; we can assist you with finding an employer and organizing all steps required for employment.

Timely Execution

Submission of documents and a job offer in due time is very crucial for success with regard to obtaining a work permit. We work upon completion at all stages with the highest priority of being prompt and efficient.

Why choose us?

Professionalism and experience

Our company has many years of experience in labour migration and business services in Europe. We know all the nuances of the work permit process and can offer the most effective solutions for our clients.

A personalized approach

We provide an individual approach for every customer and have the solution that will meet exactly your needs and conditions.

Full support

We follow through with you, from preparing the papers right up to obtaining the work permit and employment in Greece; we do our best to make the process as easy and comfortable for you as possible.

Obtaining a work permit in Greece can be quite a long and complicated procedure. In any case, Regulated United Europe can help you and make everything much easier. The company is ready to offer a full range of services for preparation of documents, searching for an employer, and support at all stages of obtaining a work permit. We guarantee professional support and an individual approach to each client so you will be able to successfully start your career in Greece.