1,254 Jobs in Greece

Greek employment runs on IKA contributions, thirteen-month pay cycles, and the Lyceum diploma that most employers require.

Questions

• Who can work in Greece?

  EU/EEA nationals can work freely upon registration with local authorities. Non-EU citizens need a residence permit issued by immigration authorities and an employer-sponsored work visa, which the employer typically initiates. The Lyceum diploma or recognized equivalent qualification is standard for most positions.

• What employment contract types exist in Greece?

  Indefinite-term contracts form the standard for permanent positions, with fixed-term contracts used for temporary or project-based work up to three years. Part-time contracts specify reduced weekly hours. All contracts must state the position, salary, working hours, and term clearly.

• What are standard working hours in Greece?

  Full-time employment is set at forty hours per week, typically Monday to Friday. Employers and employees can negotiate different schedules, but forty hours remains the legal baseline for calculating overtime and benefits.

• How does overtime work in Greece?

  Hours beyond forty weekly constitute overtime and require additional compensation, typically a percentage increase on the hourly rate. Collective agreements or employment contracts specify the exact premium. Excessive overtime is subject to limits under labor law.

• What do employers require from applicants?

  Employers request the Lyceum diploma (or equivalent), proof of Greek tax registration (AFM number), and a valid ID document. References from previous employers and professional certifications relevant to the role strengthen applications. Non-EU citizens must present visa documentation.

• What is the IKA and why does it matter?

  The IKA is Greece's social insurance fund, and contributions are deducted from every employee payslip by law. These contributions fund pensions, healthcare, and unemployment benefits. Both employer and employee contribute, and the amount varies by income level and employment category.

• When and how is pay distributed?

  Salaries are paid monthly, typically between the twentieth and twenty-fifth of each month. The thirteenth month (Christmas bonus) is distributed separately, usually in November or December, and equals one month's salary. Payslips show gross salary, IKA deductions, and net amount.

• How much annual leave do employees receive?

  Employees receive a minimum of twenty working days of paid annual leave yearly. Additional leave may apply based on collective agreements, sector, or tenure. Leave dates are typically arranged between employer and employee in advance.

• Are there periods when many businesses close?

  August sees widespread closures as many Greek businesses shut for summer; some reopen mid-month while others remain closed until September. Easter and Christmas periods also bring reduced operations in many sectors. Employees' leave entitlements cover these periods.

• What qualifications do most employers require?

  The Lyceum diploma (secondary school completion certificate) is the baseline qualification most employers expect. Sector-specific positions require additional certifications, professional licenses, or university degrees. Language skills, particularly English, strengthen candidacy in many roles.