Working in Greece attracts international professionals who want to work abroad in a Mediterranean country with a lower cost of living, a relaxed lifestyle and a growing international job market. While salaries are lower than in Northern Europe, Greece offers improving employment opportunities and a high quality of life for many expats.
Greece has seen steady economic recovery in recent years, with increasing demand for international workers in tourism, customer support, IT and shared service centers. English is widely used in international workplaces, especially in major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki.
If your goal is to relocate for work and enjoy life in Southern Europe while building international experience, Greece can be an attractive and accessible option.
Working in Greece and the job market
The Greek job market has improved significantly since the financial crisis and continues to grow, particularly in sectors that serve international markets.
Most international job opportunities are concentrated in:
- Athens
- Thessaloniki
- tourist regions and islands
Hiring demand is especially high in:
- customer service and customer support
- tourism and hospitality
- sales and business development
- IT and technology
- finance and accounting
- shared service centers and BPO
Many international companies operate support hubs in Greece, hiring multilingual staff to serve European and global customers. English is often the main working language in these roles, and additional European languages are a major advantage.
Candidates with language skills, international experience and flexibility usually have the best chances of finding work quickly.
Common jobs for internationals in Greece
International candidates in Greece often find work in roles where language skills and customer communication are essential.
Some of the most common jobs include:
- customer support agents for international markets
- content moderators and trust & safety roles
- sales representatives and account managers
- tourism and hospitality staff
- software developers and IT support specialists
Many entry-level customer service jobs do not require previous experience, especially when you speak one or more major European languages. Tech and specialist roles usually require stronger experience but offer higher salaries and better long-term career prospects.
Salaries in Greece – what can you earn?
Salaries in Greece are lower than in most Western and Northern European countries, but living costs are also significantly lower.
Typical gross monthly salary ranges include:
- Customer service / support: €900–€1,300
- Sales / business development: €1,100–€1,700
- IT / software development: €1,600–€2,800+
- Tourism and hospitality: €800–€1,200
Many employers also offer benefits such as:
- performance bonuses
- meal vouchers
- transportation support
- private health insurance
- relocation packages for international hires
Lower rent and daily expenses help offset the lower salary levels compared to Northern Europe.
How hiring works for internationals in Greece
Most international hiring in Greece happens through:
- multinational companies with support hubs
- recruitment agencies focused on multilingual talent
- in-house HR teams hiring for international roles
For many roles, especially in customer support and sales, companies are open to candidates who apply from abroad and relocate after receiving a job offer.
Typical hiring steps include:
- online application and CV screening
- one or more video interviews
- language or skills tests (for some roles)
- a written job offer and employment contract
Relocation support is common for international hires and may include help with housing, registration, tax setup or initial living costs.
Taxes and working conditions in Greece
Greece has regulated working hours, paid annual leave and clear employment contracts. Working conditions vary by industry, but international companies usually follow EU labor standards.
Income taxes are progressive and depend on salary level. Social security contributions are deducted from wages and fund public healthcare and pensions.
Official tax information is provided by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE):
https://www.aade.gr
Moving to Greece for work
EU and EEA citizens can live and work in Greece without a work permit. Non-EU citizens usually need a residence and work permit depending on nationality and job offer.
Official residence and work permit information is provided by the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum:
https://migration.gov.gr
If you stay long term, you must register with local authorities and obtain a Greek tax number (AFM), which is required for employment, banking and access to public services.
General government services and registration guidance are available via the Greek government portal:
https://www.gov.gr
Housing in Greece
Housing in Greece is relatively affordable compared to most Northern European countries. Rent is highest in central Athens and popular island destinations.
Many newcomers start with short-term accommodation before securing long-term housing.
Monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment typically starts around €500–€800 in Athens and less in smaller cities. Deposits of one to two months’ rent are common.
Living and working in Greece
Greece offers a relaxed lifestyle, warm climate and strong social culture. Many expats value the slower pace of life, outdoor living and Mediterranean food.
The country has a rich cultural history, beautiful coastlines and easy access to islands and nature.
Daily life is generally affordable, especially outside major tourist areas.
Getting around Greece
Public transport in Athens includes metro, buses and trams. Other cities rely mainly on buses.
Domestic flights and ferries connect the mainland with islands and remote regions.
Many residents use scooters or cars outside major cities.
Pros and cons of working in Greece
Pros
- warm climate and Mediterranean lifestyle
- relatively low cost of living
- growing international job market
- English widely used in international roles
- strong expat communities
Cons
- lower salaries than Northern Europe
- higher youth unemployment
- slower bureaucracy
- limited career progression in some sectors
Cities and regions in Greece with international job opportunities
Many international professionals who want to work in Greece choose locations with stronger job markets, international employers and multilingual career opportunities. While Athens is the main hub, there are several other cities and regions where international jobs are available.
FAQ – jobs in Greece
Is it easy to find jobs in Greece?
It can be, especially in customer support, tourism and international companies.
Do I need to speak Greek?
Not always. English is enough for many international jobs. Greek is useful for daily life and long-term integration.
Do I need a work permit?
EU/EEA citizens do not. Non-EU citizens usually need a permit.
Is Greece expensive?
No. Living costs are relatively low compared to most of Western Europe.
Summary – is Greece right for you?
Greece is a strong choice if you want international work experience, a warm climate and a relaxed lifestyle at a lower cost of living. While salaries are lower than in Northern Europe, the quality of life and growing job market make Greece an attractive destination for working abroad.
If you want to compare destinations, you can read more about work abroad.
Ready to take the next step? Browse jobs in Greece and discover current opportunities.