Aliens who wish to work in Greece must have valid work and residence permits.  Approval from the Greek authorities must be obtained by the perspective employer prior to the alien's arrival in Greece for the purpose of working.  Before such an approval is granted, the Greek authorities consider the possibility of filling the position with an unemployed person from other parts of the country.  Preference is given to Greek citizens, citizens of the European Community countries, persons of Greek extraction and aliens who enjoy refugee status and reside legally in Greece.

An alien who comes to Greece for the purpose of working is obliged, upon entry, to present the documents showing that prior permission has been granted by the Greek Authorities.  The alien must report, accompanied by the employer, within one month following his/her arrival to the appropriate police authority in the area of his/her residence to submit the required document for issuance of the residence and work permits.  The work permit is issued for a specific period of time, employer, occupation and place of work.  The work permit can be renewed if the conditions of the original approval are still applicable.  The validity of the work permit can never exceed the date of expiration of the residence permit.

Any alien who offers his/her services in the form of dependent reimbursable employment, exercises a profession or is engaged in a beneficial activity without a valid work permit will be punished with imprisonment and payment of a fine.  Such punishments can also result in the deportation of the individual.
 

American Embassy
Athens, Greece
June, 1992