Greece Seasonal Hospitality Work: Migration Guide

The Seasonal Work Visa (UT-1) Framework

Seasonal employment in Greece for non-EU nationals is primarily governed by the Seasonal Work Visa (UT-1). This visa allows for a maximum stay of nine months within any twelve-month period. It is specifically designed for sectors requiring short-term labor peaks, such as tourism and hospitality during the summer season.

• Validity: Up to 9 months per year.
• Sector Specifics: Limited to hospitality, food and beverage, and agriculture.
• Renewal: Requires the worker to leave Greece and re-apply from their home country for the next season.

The Employer Invitation (Metaklisi)

The recruitment process is employer-led through a procedure known as Metaklisi. Before a worker can apply for a visa, the Greek employer must obtain official approval from the decentralized administration of their specific region.

• Quota System: The Greek government sets biennial ceilings on the number of seasonal workers permitted by region and specialty.
• Labor Market Test: The employer must prove that the vacancy cannot be filled by a Greek or EU citizen.
• Security Deposit: Employers often must provide a guarantee or proof of funds to cover the cost of the worker's potential repatriation.

Worker Rights and Compensation Standards

Workers under seasonal contracts are protected by Greek Labor Law and national collective bargaining agreements. It is essential to ensure that the written contract aligns with these legal minimums to avoid exploitation.

• Minimum Wage: As of 2024, the statutory minimum wage is approximately €830 per month, though hospitality roles often pay more based on seniority and specialty.
• Working Hours: Standard hours are 40 per week. Overtime must be compensated according to legal multipliers.
• Social Security (EFKA): Employers are legally required to register workers for social security, which provides access to the Greek public healthcare system.
• Accommodation: For seasonal hospitality workers, employers are often required by contract to provide adequate housing or a housing allowance.

Note: It is illegal for employers to withhold a worker's passport or charge recruitment fees. All administrative fees for the Metaklisi application should be covered by the employer.

The Application Process

Once an employer has secured approval for a specific worker, the following steps must be taken to finalize the migration status:

1. Consular Interview

The worker must visit the Greek Embassy or Consulate in their home country with the approved Metaklisi document and a valid passport to undergo an interview and provide biometric data.

2. Entry and AMKA Issuance

Upon arrival in Greece, the worker must finalize their registration. This includes obtaining an AFM (Tax Identification Number) and an AMKA (Social Security Number), which are necessary for legal payroll processing.

3. Residence Permit (Digital)

Under recent updates, many seasonal workers receive a visa that acts as a residence permit for the duration of the contract, but it is vital to check if a separate application for a biometric residence card is required upon entry.

Compliance and Common Pitfalls

Maintaining legal status is the responsibility of both the worker and the employer. Deviating from the terms of the visa can lead to deportation and future entry bans into the Schengen Area.

• Job Changes: A seasonal visa is usually tied to a specific employer. Switching employers mid-season requires a new administrative process and is often restricted.
• Overstaying: Remaining in Greece after the 9-month limit or the contract end date results in illegal status.
• Contract Clarity: Ensure the contract specifies whether meals and transport are included, as island living costs can be high.