Greece Job Offer (Work Visa)

What is the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa)?

The Greece Job Offer (Work Visa), formally known as a National (Type D) Visa for Employment, is a crucial pathway for non-European Union (EU) and non-European Economic Area (EEA) citizens seeking employment in Greece. This visa is specifically designed for individuals who have secured a job offer from a Greek employer, enabling them to legally reside and work in the country. It acts as the initial entry permit, after which applicants must secure a residence permit upon arrival in Greece to ensure long-term legal employment.

Purpose of the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa)

The primary purpose of the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa) is to facilitate the legal entry and employment of skilled third-country nationals into the Greek labor market. It addresses the needs of Greek businesses by allowing them to hire international talent when local or EU/EEA candidates are not available, thereby contributing to the country’s economic development. This visa category underpins Greece’s efforts to manage and streamline legal migration for work purposes.

Eligibility Criteria for the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa)

To be eligible for the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa), applicants must meet several key requirements. These criteria ensure that only qualified individuals with genuine employment prospects are granted entry.

1. Secured Job Offer:

   The most fundamental requirement is a valid employment contract from a Greek employer. This contract must specify the job role, salary (meeting at least the Greek minimum wage), and duration of employment.

2. Employer-Initiated Work Permit:

   Before you can apply for the visa, your prospective Greek employer must obtain a work permit approval for you from the relevant Decentralized Administration Office in Greece. This often involves the employer proving that no EU/EEA candidate was available for the position (labor market test).

3. Qualifications and Experience:

   You must possess the necessary qualifications, degrees, or professional certifications relevant to the job offer. For regulated professions (e.g., healthcare, engineering), professional recognition from Greek authorities may be required.

4. Financial Means:

   You need to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to support yourself during your stay, especially until your first salary. This can be shown through bank statements, payslips, or a letter from your employer.

5. Passport Validity:

   Your passport must be valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your intended stay.

6. Health Insurance:

   Proof of comprehensive health insurance covering medical expenses and emergencies in Greece is mandatory.

7. Clean Criminal Record:

   A criminal background check (police clearance certificate) from your home country is required. This document often needs to be apostilled or attested by relevant authorities.

8. Medical Certificate:

   A medical fitness certificate may be required to confirm you do not have infectious diseases.

9. Accommodation:

   Proof of accommodation in Greece, such as a rental agreement or a letter from your employer confirming accommodation, is necessary.

Application Process for the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa)

The application process for the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa) involves several stages, primarily initiated by the employer in Greece and then followed by the applicant in their home country.

• Step 1. Secure a Job Offer in Greece

  The first and most critical step is to find a Greek employer willing to hire you and sponsor your work permit.

• Step 2. Employer Applies for Work Permit

  Your Greek employer applies for the work permit on your behalf with the competent Greek authorities (Decentralized Administration Office). This step must be completed and approved before you apply for the visa.

• Step 3. Apply for the Greece Work Visa (Type D)

  Once the work permit is approved, you must apply for a national (Type D) work visa at the Greek embassy or consulate in your country of residence.

  Documents Submission:

  Submit all required documents, including your valid passport, the work permit approval from Greece, your employment contract, proof of financial means, health insurance, criminal record check, and any other specific documents requested by the consulate. All documents not in Greek or English must be accompanied by certified translations.

  1. Application Form:

     Complete the visa application form accurately, either online or manually, depending on the consulate’s process.

  2. Fees Payment:

     Pay the non-refundable visa application fee.

  3. Biometrics and Interview:

     You will typically be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo) and may attend an interview at the consulate.

• Step 4. Await Visa Processing

  After submission, the consulate will process your application. Processing times can vary but generally range from 15 to 30 days, though delays can occur.

• Step 5. Receive Visa Decision

  If approved, your National (Type D) Visa for Employment will be affixed to your passport.

• Step 6. Apply for Residence Permit Upon Arrival in Greece

  Upon entering Greece with your Type D visa, you must apply for a residence permit for employment within 30 days of arrival at the local Decentralized Administration or Ministry of Migration and Asylum. This permit allows you to legally live and work long-term in Greece. You will need a Greek Tax Number (AFM) and Social Security Number (AMKA) for this step.

Benefits of the Greece Job Offer (Work Visa)

Obtaining a Greece Job Offer (Work Visa) offers numerous advantages for non-EU/EEA nationals:

• Legal Employment: It provides the legal right to work for a specific employer in Greece, ensuring compliance with Greek labor laws.
• Pathway to Residency: The Type D visa and subsequent residence permit allow for long-term stay in Greece, which can lead to permanent residency after five years of continuous legal residence.
• Schengen Area Access: While not a Schengen visa directly, holding a national Type D visa and a Greek residence permit allows for visa-free travel within the Schengen Area for short stays.
• Access to Public Services: Residents with valid permits gain access to Greece’s public healthcare system (EFKA) and other public services.
• Family Reunification: Eligible visa holders can apply for family reunification, allowing close family members to join them in Greece.
• Quality of Life: Greece offers a high quality of life with its rich history, culture, Mediterranean climate, and relatively lower cost of living compared to many other European countries.

Updates and Considerations for 2025

As of 2025, Greece continues to refine its immigration policies. While significant changes primarily impact investment-based visas (like the Golden Visa), general work visa applicants should be aware of:

• Increased Documentation Scrutiny: Authorities are enhancing verification processes. Expect requests for comprehensive and up-to-date financial documents, including tax records, to demonstrate financial stability.
• Focus on High-Skilled Migration: Greece, aligned with broader EU trends, encourages high-skilled migration. This may lead to smoother processing for professions in demand (e.g., technology, healthcare).
• Online Application Systems: Efforts are being made to streamline processes through online portals for residence permit applications, potentially reducing administrative burdens. Foreign workers can apply online for the issuance of their first residence permit at portal.immigration.gov.gr.
• Timely Renewals: It is crucial to initiate the residence permit renewal process at least 60 days before its expiration to maintain legal status.

Tips for a Successful Application

• Secure a Solid Job Offer: Ensure your job offer is legitimate and that your employer is committed to completing their part of the work permit application process.
• Gather Documents Early: Start collecting all required documents well in advance. Pay attention to validity periods, apostille/attestation requirements, and certified translations.
• Be Meticulous with Forms: Fill out all application forms accurately and completely. Incomplete applications are a common cause of delays or rejections.
• Understand Employer Obligations: Be aware that your employer has specific obligations, including registering you with social security authorities and ensuring your contract complies with Greek labor laws.
• Seek Professional Advice: Given the complexities of immigration law, consider consulting with an immigration lawyer or a licensed consultant to navigate the process accurately.

Final Thoughts

The Greece Job Offer (Work Visa) offers a promising avenue for non-EU/EEA individuals to build a career and life in Greece. While the process requires careful attention to detail and coordination with your prospective employer, adhering to the outlined steps and being prepared for documentation requirements will significantly enhance your chances of a successful application. Staying informed about any evolving regulations is also key to a smooth immigration journey.

Related Visas

• Greece EU Blue Card: For highly-skilled non-EU professionals with higher salary thresholds and specific qualification requirements.
• Greece Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers employed by companies outside Greece.
• Greece Seasonal Work Visa: For short-term employment in specific sectors like agriculture or tourism.
• Greece Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Visa: For skilled employees moving between branches of multinational companies.