Greece Work Visa Process 2026: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Foreign Workers

Working in Greece in 2026 is a good opportunity for non-EU citizens who want legal employment in Europe. Greece offers different types of work visas for foreign workers, but the process is employer-based. This means you must first get a job offer from a Greek employer before applying for a visa.
The Greece Work Visa is a long-stay national (Type D) visa. It allows you to enter Greece for work and later apply for a residence permit. If you follow the correct steps and submit complete documents, your chances of approval are high.
| Point | Details |
| Visa Type | National Long-Stay (Type D) |
| Who Can Apply | Non-EU / Non-EEA citizens |
| Job Requirement | Mandatory job offer |
| System | Employer-driven |
| Initial Validity | Based on job contract |
| Residence Permit | Required after arrival |
| Work Limitation | Employer-specific |
| Renewal | Possible with active job |
Greece Work Visa Eligibility Criteria 2026
To apply for a Greece work visa in 2026, applicants must meet all eligibility conditions. Even one missing requirement can lead to rejection.
You must fulfill the following conditions:
- You must be a non-EU or non-EEA citizen
- You must have a valid job offer from a registered Greek employer
- Your employer must get approval from Greek labor authorities
- You must have relevant education or work experience
- You must have a clean criminal record
- Your passport must be valid for the required period
- You must be medically fit
- You must show genuine intent to work only for the approved employer
Greek authorities carefully check both the employer and the applicant, so accuracy is very important.

Types of Greece Work Visas in 2026
Greece issues different work visas depending on the type of job and duration. However, the application steps are almost the same.
Main types of Greece work visas include:
- Dependent Employment Visa
For long-term jobs with Greek companies - Seasonal Work Visa
For agriculture, tourism, and hospitality jobs - Highly Skilled Work Visa
For doctors, engineers, IT experts, and managers - Special Category Permit
For company transfers and sector-based agreements
Each visa allows legal employment but only for the employer mentioned in the contract.
Step-by-Step Greece Work Visa Application Process
The Greece work visa process has clear steps that must be followed in order.
Complete application process explained below:
- Step 1: Employer Approval in Greece
The Greek employer applies to labor authorities for permission to hire a foreign worker. - Step 2: Job Contract Issuance
After approval, the employer issues a signed job contract with salary and job details. - Step 3: Document Preparation
The applicant prepares all required documents. Missing documents are a common reason for refusal. - Step 4: Embassy Appointment
Book an appointment at the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country. - Step 5: Visa Submission
Submit documents, biometrics, and visa fee at the embassy. - Step 6: Application Review
Authorities verify employer details, job authenticity, and applicant background. - Step 7: Visa Decision
If approved, the visa is stamped in your passport. - Step 8: Travel to Greece
Enter Greece within visa validity and join your employer.
Official visa information is available on the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website:
π https://www.mfa.gr/en/visas.html
Required Documents for Greece Work Visa 2026
Correct documentation is the most important part of the application.
You need the following documents:
- Valid passport
- National visa application form
- Recent passport-size photographs
- Approved employment contract
- Employer authorization letter
- Educational or professional certificates
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical fitness certificate
- Proof of accommodation
- Travel insurance for entry
All documents must be translated into Greek or English and properly attested if required.
What to Do After Arriving in Greece
After entering Greece on a work visa, you must complete legal formalities to stay and work.
Mandatory steps after arrival include:
- Apply for a residence permit
- Register with Greek social security
- Obtain a Greek tax number
- Register your residential address
- Follow Greek labor and tax laws
Failure to complete these steps can result in fines or cancellation of your permit.
Conclusion
The Greece Work Visa Process 2026 provides a legal and structured way for non-EU citizens to work in Greece. The process starts with employer approval, followed by embassy application and residence permit after arrival. With correct documents, genuine job offers, and timely application, foreign workers can successfully build a career in Greece. Careful preparation and honesty are the keys to approval.
FAQs
1. Can I apply for a Greece work visa without a job offer?
No, a confirmed job offer and employer approval are mandatory.
2. How long does Greece work visa processing take?
Usually between 1 to 3 months, depending on the case and embassy workload.
3. Can I change my employer in Greece?
Yes, but you must get fresh approval from Greek authorities before changing jobs.
4. Does a Greece work visa lead to permanent residence?
Yes, after several years of legal stay and continuous employment, you may qualify.
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