Work Authorization for U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders in Greece

1. What different types of work authorization are available for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders in Greece?



U.S. citizens and Green Card holders in Greece are eligible to apply for the European Economic Area (EEA) Work Permit. This is a permit that allows non-EU citizens to work in Greece under the same terms and conditions as EU citizens. Additionally, U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can also obtain a residence permit if they are able to demonstrate sufficient financial means. This permit allows them to live and work in Greece for extended periods of time but does not provide any special work authorization rights.

2. What are the eligibility requirements for obtaining a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

In order to obtain a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:

– Tener al menos 18 años de edad
– Have a valid passport or travel document
– Demonstrate proof of financial ability to support themselves while in Greece
– Provide evidence of a valid job offer in Greece
– Possess necessary qualifications for the job
– Pass a medical examination
– Provide police clearance from the U.S.
– Submit an application to the Greek Embassy or Consulate in the U.S., along with supporting documents.

3. Is a valid passport required for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Greece?

Yes, a valid passport is required for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Greece.

4. Is a criminal background check necessary to obtain a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

No, a criminal background check is not necessary to obtain a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens or Green Card holders. However, potential employers may require a criminal background check as part of the hiring process.

5. What is the application process for obtaining a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

To obtain a work visa in Greece, U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must first obtain a work permit from the Greek Ministry of Labor. This process can be initiated by the employer in Greece, who must provide the necessary documentation to the Labor Ministry on behalf of the candidate. This includes a copy of the candidate’s passport, a copy of the job contract, an affidavit from the employer listing the terms of work, and proof of health insurance coverage. Once the application is approved, a visa application can be submitted to the Greek Embassy or Consulate in the candidate’s home country. The visa application should include documents such as a valid passport, two passport-sized photos, an application form, proof of payment of relevant fees, evidence of health insurance coverage, and proof of professional qualifications. Upon approval, an authorization letter will be issued allowing the successful applicant to travel to Greece.

6. How long does it take to obtain a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

For U.S. citizens and Green Card holders, the processing time to obtain a work visa for Greece typically takes between two and six weeks from the date of application submission.

7. Is there a limit on the number of years that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can remain on a work visa in Greece?

Yes, there is a limit on the number of years that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can remain on a work visa in Greece. The maximum period for a work visa is five years, after which the visa must be renewed.

8. Can U.S. citizens and Green Card holders renew their work visas in Greece?

No, U.S. citizens and Green Card holders are not eligible to renew work visas in Greece. Instead, they must apply for a new visa each time they wish to enter the country for work purposes.

9. Are there any restrictions on the types of jobs that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can hold while on a work visa in Greece?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of jobs that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can hold while on a work visa in Greece. U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must obtain a work permit from the Greek Ministry of Labor before they can begin any paid employment in Greece. To obtain a work permit, they must have a job offer from an employer in Greece, and the job must be related to their qualifications and experience. Work permits for certain professions, such as doctors and lawyers, may require additional qualifications or certifications. Additionally, the employer must be able to demonstrate that they are unable to find a suitable Greek worker to fill the position.

10. Are there any fees associated with applying for a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

Yes, there are fees associated with applying for a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders. Applicants must pay the visa fee and the residence permit fee, which vary depending on the type of visa and permit. Additionally, there may be other fees associated with the application process.

11. Is there an age limit for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders applying for a work visa in Greece?

Yes. Applicants must be 18 years of age or older.

12. Are there any limitations on the number of hours U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can work while on a work visa in Greece?

Yes, there are limitations on the number of hours that U.S. citizens and Green Card holders can work while on a work visa in Greece. In accordance with Greek labor law, the normal working hours are 40 per week, from Monday to Friday, 8 hours a day. Overtime is allowed up to a maximum of 48 hours a week and must be compensated with either time off or pay.

13. Is there a minimum salary requirement for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Greece?

No, there is no minimum salary requirement for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders to obtain a work visa in Greece. However, individuals must meet certain requirements in order to qualify for a work visa, including having an employer sponsor and providing evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay. Additionally, the individual must have the relevant qualifications in order to be considered for a specific job position.

14. What documentation must be provided to apply for a work visa in Greece for U.S. citizens and Green Card holders?

US citizens and Green Card holders applying for a work visa in Greece must provide the following documents:
– Un pasaporte válido
– Un formulario de solicitud completo
– An up-to-date CV
– Proof of valid health insurance
– A letter from the employer detailing the job offer and employment contract
– Evidence of sufficient financial resources to cover the period of stay in Greece
– Proof of qualifications or professional experience relevant to the job offer
– Two recent passport photographs
– A letter from the employer confirming the duration of the contract and the salary offered

15. Does the employer need to register with the local government when hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Greece?

Yes, employers in Greece are required by law to register with the local government when hiring U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa.

16. How long does it take for an employer to receive approval to hire U.S. citizens and Green Card holders on a work visa in Greece?

The processing time for obtaining a work visa in Greece can vary depending on individual circumstances. Generally, the process can take anywhere from three to six months.

17 How long is a work visa valid for U.S citizen and Green Card holders in Greece?

Generally, U.S. citizens or Green Card holders may stay in Greece for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they have a valid passport. If a stay of longer than 90 days is desired, an appropriate work visa must be obtained from the Greek consulate in the U.S. prior to traveling to Greece. Once obtained, work visas are valid for up to one year and may be renewed annually if the same position is maintained.

18 Is labor registration required for US Citizens or Green Card Holders working on a Work Visa in Greece?

No, labor registration is not required for US Citizens or Green Card Holders working on a Work Visa in Greece.

19 Does the employee have to be physically present in Greece when applying for a Work Visa as US Citizen or Green Card Holder?

No, the employee does not have to be physically present in Greece when applying for a Work Visa as US Citizen or Green Card Holder. However, if the applicant is not physically present in Greece, they must submit their application via post or courier service to the appropriate Consular Office.

20 Are there any restrictions on the types of businesses that US Citizens or Green Card Holders can open while working on a Work Visa in Greece?

Yes, there are restrictions on the types of businesses that US Citizens or Green Card Holders can open while working on a Work Visa in Greece. The Greek government requires that any business must be approved by the Greek Ministry of Economy and Development as well as the local government. Additionally, certain sectors of the economy such as banking, insurance, and professional services may require additional licensing. Finally, foreign nationals may not own more than 49% of any business.