Dreaming of a job under the Mediterranean sun? Greece is actively hiring skilled foreign workers in 2026, but you need the right visa first. The Greece National (Type D) Work Visa is your legal gateway to employment in sectors like tourism, healthcare, and agriculture. This guide breaks down the employer-driven process, required documents, and key steps to secure your visa and residence permit successfully.
The process is strict but straightforward if you follow the rules. It all starts with a genuine job offer from a Greek employer who has obtained government approval to hire you.
Who is Eligible for a Greece Work Visa?
You must meet these basic criteria to apply:
- You are a non-EU/EEA citizen (e.g., from Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, etc.).
- You have a valid job offer from a company registered in Greece.
- Your employer has obtained approval from Greek labour authorities.
- You possess the required qualifications and experience for the job.
- You have a clean criminal record.
- You are medically fit for work.
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What are the Main Types of Greece Work Visa?
Greece offers different permits based on your employment contract.
| Visa Type | Purpose | Typical Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Dependent Employment Visa | Long-term contract jobs | 1-2 years (renewable) |
| Seasonal Work Visa | Agriculture & Tourism (temporary) | Up to 9 months |
| Highly Skilled Visa | For specialists, managers, IT professionals | 2 years (renewable) |
Official Source for Application: All visa applications are submitted through the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs portal: https://www.mfa.gr/visas
Step-by-Step Application Process for Greece Work Visa
Follow this official sequence carefully. Skipping a step will result in rejection.
- Secure a Job & Employer Approval: Your Greek employer must get a work permit for you from the Greek Manpower Employment Organization (OAED). This is the most critical step.
- Sign Employment Contract: Sign a formal contract detailing your salary, role, and duration.
- Gather Documents: Collect all required personal and professional documents (see list below).
- Book Embassy Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country.
- Submit Visa Application: Attend the appointment, submit documents, give biometrics, and pay the fee (approx. €180).
- Wait for Decision: Processing takes 1 to 3 months.
- Travel to Greece: Enter Greece within the visa’s validity period.
- Apply for Residence Permit: Within 30 days of arrival, you must apply for your residence permit at the local Decentralized Administration Office.
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List of Required Documents
Prepare these documents in order. All non-Greek documents need an apostille stamp and official translation.
- Valid Passport (with 2 blank pages, valid 3+ months beyond visa).
- National Visa Application Form, fully completed and signed.
- Passport-sized Photos (recent, white background).
- OAED Approval Document from your employer.
- Employment Contract signed by you and your employer.
- Educational Certificates & CV proving your qualifications.
- Clean Criminal Record Certificate from your home country.
- Medical Certificate confirming you are in good health.
- Proof of Accommodation in Greece (rental agreement or employer letter).
- Travel Health Insurance for the initial entry period.
What to Do After You Arrive in Greece?
Your visa is only for entry. To stay and work legally, you must:
- Apply for your Residence Permit (AFM) immediately.
- Get a Greek Tax Number (AFM).
- Register with the Social Security Institute (IKA).
- Do not start work until you have received your residence permit card.
Common Reasons for Visa Rejection
Avoid these mistakes to ensure your application succeeds:
- Missing Employer Approval: Applying without the OAED work permit.
- Incomplete Documents: Submitting untranslated or un-apostilled papers.
- Fake Job Offer: Using a fraudulent or unregistered company’s contract.
- Criminal Record: Any history of serious crime.
- Financial Insufficiency: Inability to prove you can support yourself initially.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I apply for a Greece work visa without a job offer?
No. A verified job offer and employer sponsorship are absolute mandatory requirements. You cannot apply independently.
Q2: Can I bring my family with me on a work visa?
Yes. Once you obtain your residence permit, you can apply for family reunification for your spouse and minor children, provided you meet income and housing requirements.
Q3: Is knowing Greek mandatory for the work visa?
For most jobs, basic English is sufficient. However, for customer-facing roles in tourism or healthcare, Greek language skills are often required and will be stipulated in the job contract.
Q4: Can I change jobs after getting the visa?
Yes, but the process is strict. You must apply for a new work permit with the new employer and get your residence permit amended before changing jobs. You cannot simply switch employers.
Q5: Does this visa lead to permanent residency?
Yes. After five years of continuous legal residence in Greece, you can apply for Long-Term EU Resident Status, which is a form of permanent residency.
Conclusion
Securing a Greece work visa in 2026 is a clear, multi-step process that hinges on a legitimate job offer. Start by finding an approved employer in high-demand sectors, ensure they complete the OAED work permit, and then meticulously prepare your translated and attested documents. Patience and attention to detail are key. With the right preparation, you can soon be building your career in one of Europe’s most beautiful countries. Begin your job search on official Greek employment portals today.
This article is for informational purposes only. SmartFixers.pk is not an official government website and is not affiliated with any government department. Readers are advised to verify all information from official government sources before taking any action.
Our editorial team publishes original and informational content for educational purposes only.
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