Working seasonally in Greece is a fantastic opportunity to experience Mediterranean life while earning money and gaining European work experience. Greece offers thousands of short-term jobs every year in agriculture, hospitality, tourism, and food processing. To work legally, non-EU citizens must apply for a Seasonal Work Permit.

This guide explains how to obtain a Greece Seasonal Work Permit, the required documents, the application process, average salaries, and workers' rights.

What Is a Greece Seasonal Work Permit?

A Seasonal Work Permit is a temporary residence and employment authorisation that allows non-EU/EEA nationals to work in Greece for up to nine months within a 12-month period. It is issued for specific jobs that occur only during certain seasons, such as harvesting or summer tourism.

Who Can Apply for a Greece Seasonal Work Permit?

1. Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals.
2. Applicants with a job offer or contract from a Greek employer.
3. Workers who meet health, accommodation, and background check requirements.
4. Candidates are willing to return home after the permit expires.

In-Demand Seasonal Jobs in Greece

• Agriculture: Fruit and vegetable harvesting, olive picking.
• Hospitality: Hotel staff, cleaners, kitchen helpers, receptionists.
• Tourism: Beach resort staff, restaurant servers, bartenders.
• Food Production: Packaging, canning, and processing plants.

Documents Required for a Greece Seasonal Work Permit

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
• Job offer or employment contract.
• Proof of accommodation in Greece.
• Medical certificate confirming fitness for work.
• Police clearance certificate from the home country.
• Health insurance covering your stay.
• Passport-sized photos and a completed visa form.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply

Step 1 – Find a Job in Greece

Secure an offer from a registered Greek employer in the agriculture, hospitality, or tourism sector.

Step 2 – Employer Applies in Greece

The employer submits your employment request to the local Decentralised Administration Office for approval.

Step 3 – Receive Job Approval Letter

Once the application is approved, you'll receive an official job invitation or work contract.

Step 4 – Apply for the Visa

Submit your documents at the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country and pay the visa fee (usually €90–€120).

Step 5 – Wait for Processing

Processing usually takes 4–8 weeks, depending on the embassy.

Step 6 – Receive the V. You'll be issued a Type D Seasonal Work Visa, which will allow you to enter and work in Greece.

Step 7 – Travel to Greece

Once in Greece, register your presence and begin your seasonal job.

Average Salaries for Seasonal Jobs in Greece

Worker Rights and Employment Rules

• Working Hours: 40 hours per week, 8 hours daily.
• Overtime: Paid according to Greek labour law.
• Accommodation: Must be provided by the employer or compensated.
• Health Insurance: Mandatory for all seasonal workers.
• Taxes: Deducted automatically from salary.
• Contract Duration: Valid only for the specified period and with the specified employer.

Benefits of Working Seasonally in Greece

1. Legal short-term work with stable income.
2. Free or low-cost housing and meals.
3. Chance to explore Greek culture and lifestyle.
4. Safe, well-regulated working environment.
5. Possibility of re-employment in future seasons.

How to Get a Greece Seasonal Work Permit – FAQ

1. What is a Greece Seasonal Work Permit?
A Greece Seasonal Work Permit enables non-EU citizens to work in seasonal sectors, such as agriculture, tourism, or hospitality, for a limited period during peak seasons.

2. Who can apply for a seasonal work permit in Greece?
Non-EU citizens with a confirmed job offer from a Greek employer in seasonal industries are eligible to apply.

3. How long is the Greek seasonal work permit valid?
It is typically valid for up to 6 or 9 months within 12 months, depending on the job type and employer.

4. Can I apply for a Greece seasonal work visa without a job offer?
No. You must have a signed job contract or an official job offer from an approved Greek employer to be eligible to apply.

5. Which sectors are open for seasonal employment?
Key sectors include agriculture, farming, hospitality, food processing, and tourism.

6. Do I need to apply from my home country?
Yes. Most applicants must apply for the visa through the Greek embassy or consulate in their country of residence.

7. What documents are required for the Greece seasonal visa?
Standard documents include your passport, job contract, medical certificate, police clearance, proof of accommodation, and visa application form.

8. Do I need health insurance?
Yes, valid travel and medical insurance is required to cover your stay in Greece.

9. Can I extend my seasonal work permit?
In most cases, it cannot be extended beyond the maximum period allowed; however, your employer may rehire you for the next season.

10. Can my family accompany me to Greece?
No. Family members are not eligible to join seasonal workers on this visa type.

11. How long does visa processing take?
The process typically takes 1 to 3 months, depending on your country and the embassy's workload.

12. Who pays for the flight to Greece?
Typically, the employee pays for the flight, but some employers may cover it partially or entirely, depending on the terms of the contract.

13. Is accommodation provided in Greece?
Yes, most seasonal employers provide free or subsidised accommodation during your employment period.

14. What is the average salary for seasonal workers in Greece?
Seasonal workers usually earn between €600 and €900 per month, depending on skills and position.

15. Do I need to know the Greek language?
Not necessarily, but basic English or Greek can be helpful, especially in tourism-related roles.

16. Can I change employers while in Greece?
No, your permit is linked to a specific employer, and changing jobs requires a new application.

17. Do I pay taxes in Greece?
Yes, all workers are subject to Greek labour laws and tax regulations, though some deductions are minimal for seasonal workers.

18. Can I apply for a residence permit later?
Seasonal workers can only stay temporarily. To obtain a long-term residence permit, you would need a different type of visa or employment offer.

19. What happens if I overstay my seasonal visa?
Overstaying is illegal and can result in fines, deportation, or future visa bans in Greece or the Schengen area.

20. How can M2S Grupe help me?
AtoZ Serwis Plus assists you with the entire process — from connecting with verified employers and collecting documents to submitting visa applications and preparing for embassy interviews.

Final Thoughts

Greece offers some of the best seasonal work opportunities in Europe with fair wages, free accommodation, and beautiful working environments. Whether you want to work on farms, in resorts, or in restaurants, a Greece Seasonal Work Permit allows you to do so legally and safely. M2S Grupe assists candidates in finding seasonal jobs, preparing applications, and securing work permits for Greece with professional support.