Working in Greece

If you are moving to Greece without a job in hand may, you struggle to find employment in the country. Although Greece’s unemployment rate is steadily declining, it remains significantly higher than that of other European countries such as Italy and Spain.

Non-EU expats will find it even more difficult to secure a job. Owing to the extra costs and paperwork involved with hiring non-EU citizens, most companies tend to hire employees from within the European Union. To overcome this, networking is key.

Job market in Greece

Greece’s most prominent industries are traditionally within the service sector, which employs most people and greatly contributes to the country’s GDP. Industries such as food and tobacco processing, textiles, and chemicals also significantly contribute to the Greek economy.

Greece’s tourism industry is thriving, with millions of tourists a year flocking to visit the marble statues and monuments of Ancient Greece and holiday islands such as Santorini and Mykonos. That said, jobs in the tourism industry are often seasonal, which can leave expats without an income in the quiet season.

Many expats teach English in Greece. This requires a bachelor’s degree and may require a TEFL qualification. Working as a private tutor is an option but doesn’t guarantee a regular income. The IT, healthcare, and finance sectors also present a fair few opportunities if you’re looking to work in Greece.

Finding a job in Greece

Most expats arrive in Greece with a job in hand, typically through an intra-company transfer. If you are moving to Greece without a job offer, you should get in touch with local businesses and recruiting agencies.

Online job portals and classified sections of local newspapers are a good way to scope out the job market but are typically not the best route for securing work. Greeks prefer to do business with people they know, so networking is key to finding a job in Greece.

Recruitment agencies are also useful for finding a job in Greece. These professionals can connect you with opportunities in your specific sector.

Non-EU citizens will need both a visa and work permit for Greece. Employers must first prove that no Greek or EU citizen was available to do the job, which may make the process more challenging.

Visas for Greece

Useful links

• Jobs in Greece
• Adecco Greece
• Grab Jobs

Work culture in Greece

Expats may find Greek work culture markedly different from their own. Work culture in Greece is traditional and hierarchical, emphasising relationships, networking, and first impressions. Successful expat workers present themselves professionally while exhibiting patience, friendliness, and directness.

Greeks are known for a more lax approach to finer rules, with meeting agendas and end times typically seen as suggestions as animated deliberations go back and forth. While respect for the hierarchy is paramount, Greeks respect colleagues who passionately advocate for their business choices.

Business Culture in Greece