Greece Seeks 300,000+ Foreign Workers: In-Demand Jobs & Visa Options Explained

Greece is grappling with a critical labour shortage, with an urgent need for over 300,000 foreign workers to sustain its growing economy. This demand spans a range of industries, from tourism to IT, highlighting the country’s reliance on both skilled and unskilled labour to fill key job roles.

Jobs in Demand in Greece

The tourism and IT sectors are at the forefront of Greece’s labour shortage, but the demand spans a wide range of industries. These roles are crucial to addressing the country’s economic needs, particularly in sectors driving both seasonal and year-round growth.

1. Hospitality: From world-class chefs to dedicated housekeeping staff, Greece’s thriving tourism industry offers numerous opportunities.

2. Construction: Skilled tradespeople, such as electricians, plumbers, and construction workers, are in high demand to support infrastructure development.

3. Manufacturing: Industrial workers, including machine operators, welders, and production line personnel, are essential to Greece’s manufacturing sector.

4. IT: Software engineers, cybersecurity experts, and IT support specialists are sought-after to drive digital innovation.

Simplified Immigration Policies for Workers

To attract foreign workers, Greece has streamlined its immigration policies, making it easier for international professionals to contribute to the local economy:

Updated EU Blue Card Rules

Greece has recently revised its EU Blue Card policies to attract highly skilled professionals:

• Short-stay visa holders and those entering under a visa-free regime are now eligible to apply.
• Pre-screening requirements have been made optional, though applicants are encouraged to complete them to avoid delays or rejections.

Processing Time

Despite these updates, the immigration process for foreign workers still takes 6 to 9 months, posing challenges for businesses, particularly those seeking seasonal labour.

Also Read: Greece Tightens Golden Visa Rules: Higher Investment, Stricter Eligibility

Countries Showing Interest in Greek Opportunities

Workers from countries like India, Egypt, Bangladesh, Moldova, Georgia, and Vietnam have shown keen interest in employment opportunities in Greece. According to the CEO of WorkInGreece, over 2,000 Greek businesses are actively seeking to hire foreign talent through their platform.

Visa Options for Working in Greece

If you’re planning to work in Greece, understanding your visa options is crucial. Below are the primary visas available for foreign workers, their features, and key requirements:

1. EU Blue Card

The EU Blue Card is designed for highly skilled professionals with qualifications in demand, such as IT or engineering.

• Eligibility: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent, job offer in Greece, and salary meeting the national threshold.
• Features:
  • Open to short-stay visa holders and visa-free entrants.
  • Optional pre-screening process to simplify applications.
• Requirements: Proof of education, employment contract, and salary details.

2. National Visa (D Visa)

The National Visa is ideal for skilled and unskilled workers seeking long-term employment in Greece.

• Eligibility: Employment offers in Greece for positions like chefs, electricians, or plumbers.
• Features:
  • Valid for up to one year with potential extensions.
  • Provides a pathway to apply for a residence permit.
• Requirements: Valid passport, employment contract, and proof of accommodation in Greece.

3. Seasonal Work Visa

The Seasonal Work Visa caters to individuals seeking temporary jobs in agriculture, tourism, or hospitality.

• Eligibility: Job offer for seasonal roles, such as dishwashing, farming, or guiding tourists.
• Features:
  • Valid for up to six months.
  • Suitable for employers needing immediate manpower.
• Requirements: Proof of job offer, return ticket, and sufficient funds for your stay.

These visa options are tailored to different employment needs, offering opportunities for workers across sectors. Prepare early and ensure you meet the specific requirements for a smooth application process.

Also Read: Greece Visa Trends: Discover Countries with Most Approval and Rejection Rates

Conclusion

With a simplified immigration framework and a broad range of job opportunities, Greece is positioning itself as a hub for foreign workers. However, delays in processing times remain a significant hurdle. For those considering Greece, understanding visa options and preparing early can help them navigate these challenges effectively.