In short
- You have the same labour rights as Greek workers: minimum wage, hours, leave.
- To work legally: AFM, PAAYPA or AMKA, and AMA.
- Always ask for a copy of your contract or recruitment statement.
When can you work?
- Asylum seekers: with a valid card, after a waiting period set by law. Before June 2026: 60 days after full registration (the EU Pact rules set a maximum of 6 months). Self-employment is not allowed. No separate work permit is needed.
- Refugees and subsidiary protection: with a valid residence permit, like Greek nationals, including self-employment.
- Young people: from 15 with the consent of parents or guardian; not allowed under 15 (except supervised artistic work).
Your rights at work
- Minimum wage since 1 April 2026: €920 gross per month full time (€41.09 a day for manual workers). The amount usually changes every spring.
- 40 hours a week (5 days). Overtime is paid extra; night, Sunday and holiday work is paid more.
- Paid leave, and insurance (sickness, maternity, work accident, unemployment, pension) when you are declared.
- Undeclared work or abuse: complain to the Labour Inspectorate (SEPE).
Finding a job or training
Register with DYPA
The public employment service: job offers, unemployment card (valid 3 months, renewable), CV, training programmes. Register online with card/permit, PAAYPA or AMKA, and AFM.
Get support
CV and job support: SolidarityNow (Athens Solidarity Centre), Generation 2.0 RED, Caritas Hellas, and HELIOS+ for protected people.
Get your diplomas recognised
DOATAP for university degrees, EOPPEP for vocational qualifications.
- DYPA — unemployment register dypa.gov.gr
- Labour Inspectorate (SEPE) — contact hli.gov.gr
- SolidarityNow — Athens Solidarity Centre solidaritynow.org
