Complete Guide to Applying for a Seasonal Work Visa in Greece
Seasonal Work Permit in Greece – Complete Guide
Seasonal jobs in Greece offer a fantastic opportunity for non-EU nationals to work legally, earn a living, and experience Mediterranean life. Every year, Greece hires thousands of foreign workers in agriculture, hospitality, and tourism to meet seasonal labour demand. To work legally, foreign citizens must obtain a Seasonal Work Permit.
This guide provides comprehensive information on the application process, eligibility requirements, Salary, worker rights, and necessary documents for seasonal work in Greece.
What Is a Seasonal Work Permit in Greece?
A Seasonal Work Permit allows non-EU/EEA nationals to work in Greece for short-term seasonal employment — usually between 6 and 9 months per year. The permit is associated with a specific employer and job sector, such as agriculture, hospitality, or tourism.
Seasonal workers play a crucial role in supporting Greece’s economy during peak agricultural harvests and busy tourism seasons.
Who Can Apply for a Greece Seasonal Work Permit?
- Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.
- Candidates with a valid job offer from a Greek employer.
- Workers who meet health, background, and accommodation requirements.
- Applicants are willing to return home after the seasonal contract ends.
In-Demand Seasonal Jobs in Greece
- Agriculture and Farming – fruit/olive picking, vegetable harvesting.
- Hospitality and Tourism – hotels, beach resorts, and restaurants.
- Food Production and Packaging – canneries, meat, and seafood processing.
- Cleaning and Maintenance – Resorts, Villas, and Public Facilities.
- Support Roles – kitchen helpers, servers, gardeners, drivers.
Required Documents for Greece Seasonal Work Permit
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months remaining validity).
- Employment contract or signed job offer.
- Accommodation proof in Greece.
- Health insurance covering the stay.
- Medical certificate confirming fitness for work.
- Police clearance certificate from the home country.
- Recent biometric passport photos.
- Completed visa and work permit application form.
How to Apply for a Greece Seasonal Work Permit – Step by Step
Step 1 – Secure a Job Offer
Find a legitimate Greek employer in agriculture, tourism, or hospitality. Your employer must be licensed and registered with the Greek Labour Office.
Step 2 – Employer Submits Application in Greece
The employer applies for your seasonal employment approval at the local Decentralised Administration Office in Greece. Once approved, you receive an invitation letter or job contract.
Step 3 – Prepare Your Documents
Collect all required documents, including passport, contract, health insurance, and medical certificate.
Step 4 – Apply for a Visa at the Greek Embassy
Submit your visa application at the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country. Provide biometrics and pay the required fees.
Step 5 – Pay the Visa Fee
- Seasonal Work Visa: €90–€120 (depending on the embassy).
- Processing time: 4–8 weeks.
Step 6 – Receive Decision and Visa
Once approved, you’ll receive your Type D Visa (seasonal work).
Step 7 – Travel to Greece and Begin Work
Enter Greece legally, sign your contract, and start working with your employer.
Step 8 – Follow Employment Rules
- Work only for the employer named in your permit.
- Always carry your ID and visa card.
- Follow Greek labour laws and workplace safety rules.
Step 9 – Return After Contract Ends
You must leave Greece after your job duration. If invited again, you can reapply for a new seasonal permit.
Average Salaries for Seasonal Work in Greece
|
Job Type |
Monthly Salary (€) |
Extra Benefits |
|---|---|---|
|
Agriculture/Farming |
€700 – €900 |
Free housing, meals, transportation |
|
Hospitality (Hotels) |
€800 – €1,200 |
Meals, staff accommodation |
|
Tourism/Resort Jobs |
€900 – €1,300 |
Accommodation, bonuses, tips |
|
Food Processing |
€750 – €1,000 |
Canteen meals, shared housing |
|
Cleaning & Maintenance |
€700 – €900 |
Lodging, uniforms, transportation |
When to Apply for Greece Seasonal Jobs
|
Sector |
Peak Season |
Best Time to Apply |
|---|---|---|
|
Agriculture/Farming |
April – October |
January – March |
|
Tourism/Hospitality |
May – September |
February – April |
|
Olive Harvest |
October – December |
August – September |
Employment Rules and Worker Rights in Greece
- Working Hours: 40 hours per week (up to 8 hours/day).
- Overtime: Paid as per Greek labour law.
- Holidays: 14+ national public holidays.
- Accommodation: Employers must provide safe housing or allowance.
- Health Insurance: Mandatory for all workers.
- Taxation: Employers deduct salary income tax from direct salaries.
- Workplace Safety: Employers must follow official health and safety standards.
Benefits of Working Seasonally in Greece
- Competitive pay with free housing and meals.
- Legal employment through a registered employer.
- Opportunity to gain EU work experience.
- Safe, scenic, and culturally rich environment.
- Potential for future seasonal re-employment.
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FAQs – Greece Seasonal Work Permit
1. Who can apply for a Greece Seasonal Work Permit?
Any non-EU citizen with a valid job offer from a Greek employer in a seasonal sector such as agriculture, tourism, or hospitality can apply.
2. What is the validity of the Greek seasonal work permit?
The permit is usually valid for up to 9 months within 12 months.
3. What sectors are considered seasonal in Greece?
Seasonal sectors include farming, fruit picking, hotels, restaurants, catering, and tourism services.
4. Do I need a job offer before applying for the permit?
Yes. You must have a signed employment contract from an approved Greek employer.
5. What type of visa is issued for seasonal work in Greece?
You will receive a Type D National Visa (Seasonal Employment Visa).
6. Can I apply for this visa from inside Greece?
No. You must apply from your home country or the country in which you are currently residing legally.
7. How long does the visa process take?
The processing time typically ranges from 30 to 60 days, depending on the workload.
8. Can the seasonal work permit be extended?
Yes, it can be renewed for another season if your employer offers a new job contract.
9. Is accommodation provided by the employer?
Yes. Most employers provide free accommodation and food for seasonal workers.
10. What is the minimum Salary for seasonal workers?
Seasonal workers typically earn between €700 and €1,200 per month, depending on experience and job role.
11. Do I need health insurance to work in Greece?
Yes. Health insurance is mandatory for all foreign seasonal workers.
12. Can I bring my family on a seasonal visa?
No. Family reunification is not allowed under the seasonal work visa category.
13. What documents are required for the visa application?
You need your passport, job offer, work permit, police clearance, medical certificate, photographs, and insurance proof.
14. Do you know if a visa interview is required at the Greek Embassy
Yes. Applicants must attend a brief interview, during which fundamental questions about the job and the employer will be asked.
15. What kind of questions are asked in the Greek visa interview?
Expect questions like:
-
What job will you do in Greece?
-
Who is your employer?
-
Have you worked abroad before?
-
Why do you want to work in Greece?
16. Can I change my employer after entering Greece?
No. Your work permit is linked to a specific employer and cannot be transferred.
17. Can I stay in Greece after my permit expires?
No. You must return to your home country upon completion of the contract period.
18. Can I reapply for the same job next year?
Yes. Many workers are re-invited by the same employer each season.
19. Is the Greek language required for seasonal jobs?
Not always, but basic English or Greek helps in daily communication.
20. Which nationalities can apply for Greece seasonal jobs?
Citizens of India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and select African countries are eligible to apply.
21. Where can I submit my Greece work visa application?
You can apply through the Greek Embassy or VFS Global in your country with all the required documents.
Final Thoughts
Working seasonally in Greece offers an exciting mix of earnings, experience, and cultural exposure. The process is simple — find a legitimate employer, prepare your documents, and apply through the Greek embassy. With fair wages, free accommodation, and robust worker rights, Greece is one of the top European destinations for seasonal employment.
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