How to obtain a work visa for Greece: documents and application process

Introduction

Greece, renowned for its stunning coastline, rich history, comfortable seaside properties, and unique culture, attracts tourists from all corners of the world. Each year, the country welcomes over a million visitors from Europe, America, and Russia. There is a particular demand for specialists willing to work in the tourism sector, both on a temporary and permanent basis. The main requirement for legal employment in Greece is the presence ofwork visaandwork permits.

Types of visas

There are various categories of visas used for work in Greece, which depend on the duration of the intended employment and the terms of the contract with the prospective employer. In general, two main types of permits can be distinguished:

• National visa type D
• Work visaa valid for one year, with the possibility of further application for a resident visa after entering the country.

If the work is planned on a seasonal basis, it is sufficient to obtain a type D visa. When it comes to long-term employment that exceeds one year, a work visa is required, which also involves applying for a residence permit.

Obtaining a work visa

To obtain a work visa for Greece, it is necessary to confirm the right to receive it by means ofwork permitsSuch a permit is issued by the Ministry of Labor of Greece to the future employer. The employer is required to submit an application for the permit, outlining their intentions to provide work to a foreign candidate. This application must be accompanied by documents confirming the absence of suitable candidates for the vacancy both in Greece and in other European Union countries.

As soon as the Ministry of Labor gives a positive response, the consent of the local police will be required.

Labor contract

After obtaining permission, the employer is obliged to provide the future employee withemployment contractThis contract should detail the terms of cooperation. It must be accompanied by an invitation from the employer on the official letterhead of the organization.

Necessary documents

Here is a list of the necessary documents for obtaining a work visa:

• International passportThe validity period should be at least 18 months from the date the visa is issued.
• It is important for the passport to have at least two blank pages for visa stamps and other necessary stamps.
• Active employment contractalso included in this list.

Reasons for refusal

It should be noted that the process of obtaining a work visa can sometimes be complicated by refusals. The reasons for refusal may include:

• Errors in the documents.
• Insufficient evidence of financial stability.
• The lack of necessary conditions for the employment of foreign workers.

Illegal employment without the appropriate visa will lead to serious consequences, including fines and a ban on entering the country.

Conclusion

Greece offers not only breathtaking landscapes and historical monuments but also real opportunities for work and living in a country with a high standard of living and developed infrastructure. Understanding all the details of the necessary paperwork and complying with local laws will help avoid difficulties and successfully implement your employment plans in this magnificent corner of the planet.

The importance of a contract

In the document regulating employment, it is essential to clearly specify all aspects related to working conditions, such as deadlines, salary amounts, and payment schedules. This contract is developed, signed, and sent by the employer.

Designing an invitation

The invitation must be printed on the official company letterhead. It will also be necessary to make copies of all pages of the Russian citizen's passport.

Filling out a visa application form

The applicant is required to fill out a visa application form for Greece, which must include consent for the processing of personal data. The form should be completed in English, using legible printed letters, and a personal signature is mandatory.

Requirements for photographs

In addition, it is necessary to prepare photographs in accordance with the established requirements:

• For the visa, two color photos measuring 3.5×4.5 cm will be required.
• Where the face should occupy at least 70% of the total image area.
• These photos must meet the Schengen visa standards.

Medical insurance

In addition, the presence of is required.health insurancethe coverage amount that must exceed30 thousand eurosand operate in the territory of Europe and Schengen countries throughout the entire duration of the trip.

Documents for submission

It is essential to provide a rental agreement for housing in Greece, as well as a certificate of no criminal record. The applicant must also pay the consular and visa fees, providing the corresponding receipts for these expenses. Additionally, a medical certificate confirming the absence of serious illnesses must be included.

Financial guarantees

Various documents can be provided to confirm financial stability:

• Bank statement,
• Information about the credit card,
• Letter from the sponsor.

Legalization of documents

All certificates and documents issued in Russia must undergo legalization with an apostille and must be translated into Greek.

Additional requirements of the consulate

The consulate has the authority to request additional documents if the information provided is insufficient to satisfy the visa application.

Renting accommodation in Greece

Renting property in Greece attracts clients with its wide selection of various listings: currently, there are 502 advertisements, indicating a variety of options available. Among them, you can find a modern complex consisting of three exceptional houses, each with its own pool, located in picturesque Epidaurus in the Peloponnese. This plot of land covers an area of 2000 square meters, and the rental price reaches an impressive 3200 euros per week.

You can also find a traditional premium villa on the market, located just a few steps from the beach on the beautiful island of Corfu. This unique property spans 400 square meters and includes 7 bedrooms; the rental price for this villa is 23,500 euros per week.

Unique real estate offers

Particular attention should be given to the three-level villa located just 100 meters from the equipped beach in Porto Heli, on the Peloponnese. The total area of this property is 340 square meters, and the plot itself covers 4000 square meters. The rental price for this property is 6000 euros per week.

Another extraordinary three-story villa in Porto Heli features its own beach and tennis court. The area of this villa is similar to the previous one: 4000 square meters of land and 240 square meters of total building area, but it has 8 bedrooms. The rental price will be 12,000 euros per week.

Additional rental options

• In Epidaurus, a three-level villa with a stunning sea view is also available. It has an area of 240 square meters and includes 5 bedrooms, with a rental price of 4500 euros per week.
• On Corfu, a magnificent villa catches the eye, located just 80 meters from the water, with a total area of 260 square meters and a plot of 500 square meters. Renting this property will cost 18,200 euros per week.
• Don't forget about the stunning villa in traditional Greek style, located in picturesque Sithonia in the Macedonian and Thracian region. This villa spans 450 square meters and offers 9 bedrooms, with a rental price of up to 7500 euros per week.
• There is also a three-level villa in Anavyssos, just two hundred meters from the sandy beach. It has an area of 180 square meters on a plot of 1000 square meters.

Obtaining a work visa for Greece

Now let's move on to the question of obtaining a work visa for Greece.

Submission of biometric data

The submission of biometric data for a Schengen visa takes place at the same institution where the application is submitted. After this procedure, you need to wait for a response from the consulate. Usually, the response to a visa request based on an invitation takes between four to ten days, but during periods of high demand, this timeframe can extend to a whole month.

During this time, the consulate staff may contact the applicant to clarify various details. To track the status of your application, you should visit the visa center's website and enter the necessary information provided during the document submission.

Obtaining a visa

When the visa is ready, the applicant will have the option to pick up their documents in person or use courier services. In situations where the employment contract has a long duration, employees need to apply for a residence permit (RP) after arriving in Greece.

One of the key points for successfully obtaining a work visa is the need to complete the validity of the previous visa if it belonged to a different category.

Visa application

The process of obtaining a work visa is only possible in the territory of the state where the applicant is registered for permanent residence. If it is necessary to extend the employment contract or residence permit, the applicant must be in Greece. The employer is required to provide documentation confirming the extension of the contract, and these papers must be submitted to the consulate. In this case, there is no need to leave the country.

The cost of obtaining a visa.

As for the cost of obtaining a visa, the consular fee for a long-term national visa in 2023 is180 eurosthat at the current exchange rate is approximately18,000 rublesAdditionally, it is necessary to take into account the expenses for the visa center services, which amount to3,450 rublesIndividuals with disabilities of the first and second groups are exempt from paying the service fee.

State duty

The state fee for obtaining a residence permit in Greece for a period of one year is150 euroswhat corresponds15,000 rubles.

Reasons for visa denial

Refusals to issue work visas can occur for a variety of reasons. Most often, this is related to:

• Incorrectly filling out the documents;
• Providing false information;
• A fake invitation from the Greek side;
• Insufficient financial resources for the stay.

Additional reasons for refusal

Violations of the rules for staying in the Schengen area, lack of medical insurance, debts or conflicts with representatives of Schengen Agreement countries, as well as marks of a visit to Northern Cyprus, can also be grounds for visa denial.

Appeal and resubmission

In case of rejection, the applicant has the opportunity to file an appeal against the decision made. If errors are found in the documents, resubmission of the application is allowed, provided that the fees and charges are paid.

Responsibility for illegal labor activities

Moreover, illegal employment can lead to fines of up to1,200 eurosand also to imprisonment for a term of up to18 months.

Compliance with labor migration regulations and legal residence in the country is an important task for every foreign worker seeking to legalize their stay and employment. This not only ensures safety and stability in a new country but also helps avoid troubles with local authorities.

Conclusion

In concluding this article, I want to emphasize that the process of obtaining a work visa for Greece requires a serious approach and attention to detail. Greece not only attracts tourists with its beauty but also offers foreign citizens opportunities for employment in an appealing and dynamic environment, especially in the tourism sector. Each year, the number of people wanting to work in this country is increasing, and to say that this phenomenon is temporary would be a mistake.

Referring to the described types of visas, documents, and the procedures for their processing, it becomes clear that it is important to prepare thoroughly and gather all the necessary paperwork. It should be remembered that legal employment not only brings financial stability but also increases the level of trust from employers and the government system. This creates a foundation for further improvement in the quality of life and integration into Greek society.

Unique work experience in Greece

In particular, working in Greece offers a unique experience — the opportunity to immerse oneself in a rich culture, interact with citizens of another country, and understand their way of life. Anyone considering employment abroad should weigh all the pros and cons, but it seems to me that the advantages of this experience clearly outweigh the potential downsides.

Cost and reasons for refusals

It is also important to consider the cost of obtaining a visa and possible reasons for refusals, in order to avoid unpleasant situations in advance and maximize your chances of success. Proper preparation and adherence to all necessary procedures will allow you to join the lucky ones who have been able to realize their dreams of living and working in Greece without unnecessary difficulties.

Recommendations for successful employment

• Thorough preparation:Make sure your application package is complete.
• Maximizing chances:Keep track of all stages of document submission.
• Studying culture:Diving into the Greek way of life will enrich your experience.

Therefore, if you are considering the possibility of employment in this country, don't put it off — start the process. Greece is waiting for you with its pristine beaches, warm sea, and rich cultural heritage. Wishing you success in your endeavors!