When planning to hire a new employee in Greece or relocating a current team member to the country, it’s essential to navigate Greece’s immigration and work permit requirements carefully. Understanding the various types of work visas and permits is crucial to ensure compliance with local laws, which can be complex and challenging for companies.
Importance of Immigration Compliance in Greece
For employers hiring remote workers in Greece, understanding visa requirements is key to avoiding financial penalties, legal issues, or reputational damage due to non-compliance. While Greece offers attractive options like the digital nomad visa, the government has become more stringent, especially with short-term residency. To avoid complications with authorities, it’s advisable to seek professional legal advice and ensure all employees have the necessary documentation to work legally in Greece.
Working with a reliable Employer of Record (EOR) can simplify the process, helping companies manage regulatory compliance and the intricacies of international hiring.
Work Authorization Checks in Greece
Permanent residence in Greece offers significant benefits, including the ability to live and work in the country for an extended period. Greek citizens automatically receive this status, while non-EU citizens must reside in Greece continuously for at least five years to qualify. This residency status allows access to employment without further requirements and can be renewed through a straightforward re-application process.
Nationals from EU or EEA countries can legally work in Greece without needing visas or permits. In contrast, foreign workers from other regions must comply with Greek visa and work permit regulations, which often require sponsorship by a locally incorporated entity.
Do Non-Citizens Need a Work Visa or Work Permit in Greece?
Non-EU and non-EEA nationals, or those without permanent residence in Greece, require a work visa to work legally. Greece offers two primary types of work visas: the short-stay “C” visa and the long-stay “D” visa. The “C” visa allows up to 90 days in the Schengen area within a 180-day period, suitable for short-term stays. For long-term employment, the “D” visa is required, permitting entry into Greece and allowing for the application of a residence permit.
Schengen Visa and Its Application in Greece
The Schengen Visa serves as a travel authorization within the EU’s 26 member states, functioning as a Type C short-stay visa in Greece. It permits holders to stay for up to 90 days within 180 days. To work legally in Greece, individuals must have a valid residence permit and an employment contract with a registered employer. Employers must ensure compliance with Greek and EU immigration laws, which involve obtaining necessary documents like travel documentation, health certificates, and proof of legal residency.
The EU Blue Card for Highly Skilled Professionals
The EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly skilled professionals from outside the EU, allowing them to live and work in any of the 26 member states. In Greece, the EU Blue Card serves as a valid work permit, enabling holders to work without needing additional visas or permits.
Eligibility Requirements for a Greek Work Visa
Obtaining a Greek work visa for non-EU and non-EEA workers involves specific steps, starting with an application form. Applicants must schedule an appointment at a local Greek embassy or consulate, present necessary documents, undergo biometric screening if required, and pay applicable fees. The process can take from six days to three months, depending on the applicant’s origin. After obtaining the visa, the employee must apply for a residence permit through Greece’s Decentralized Administration.
Long-Stay Visa Types in Greece
The Greek D visa, typically valid for one year, is necessary for long-term employment. After obtaining the visa, individuals must apply for a residence permit within Greece before the visa expires. The permit’s validity is two years, extendable for an additional three years upon timely application.
Securing a Work Visa for Greece: Steps and Requirements
To secure a Greek work visa, applicants need to prepare essential documents, including a completed D visa form, a valid passport, recent photographs, travel medical insurance, a certificate of good health, and a clean criminal record. Employers sponsoring an employee must ensure compliance with all visa and residence permit requirements, including obtaining the employee’s Tax Identification Number (AFM) and social security number (AMKA) before applying.
Digital Nomad Visa Requirements in Greece
Digital nomads must follow standard work permit procedures for non-EU and non-EEA workers in Greece. The application process begins with an appointment at a Greek consulate or embassy, submission of required documents, and payment of fees. The type of residence permit needed depends on the length and purpose of the stay, with options for long-term residency available.
By following these guidelines, companies can successfully hire and relocate employees to Greece while ensuring full compliance with local immigration laws.