Greek agriculture is experiencing a significant shortage of workers. In particular, more than 180,000 vacancies are currently open in the industry. Manufacturers are asking the authorities to simplify the requirements for hiring foreign workers. In turn, the country has already signed a bilateral agreement with Egypt to attract 5,000 workers. Taking this into account, experts believe that in the near future we can expect a simplification of migration legislation in Greece.

How does the labor shortage affect Greece's agriculture?

The lack of agricultural labor in Greece means that more and more land is left uncultivated or unharvested. This harms both the country's economy and farmers.

In particular, the National Interprofessional Organization of Table Olive Producers (DOEPEL) stated that last year 30% of the harvest remained unharvested due to a lack of labor. This led to a reduction in income in the agricultural sector of more than 27 million euros, and the country's losses from insurance premiums were estimated to exceed two million euros.

Taking into account the risks of a repeat of the situation this year, the organization's representatives suggest applying the French model, which provides for easing the criteria for hiring citizens of third countries.

To simplify the move to Greece, as well as facilitate the employment procedure, consult a migration specialist. We help to solve complex and simple issues for your comfort and safety in Greece.

How many expats are currently planning to move to Greece?

At this time, 14,000 foreigners applied for a permanent residence permit in Greece. However, the authorities expect that this number will exceed 30,000 people in the future.

How does the Greek government solve the problem of the lack of workers?

- Bilateral agreement between Greece and Egypt

To reduce the labor shortage, the Greek government has signed a bilateral agreement with Egypt, the main objective of which is to attract 5,000 Egyptian seasonal workers for the agricultural sector this summer.

The Greek Ministries of Migration and Asylum have created an electronic platform for employers to apply for employment of workers from Egypt.

- Integration of illegal migrants

Another way in which the authorities plan to reduce the labor shortage in Greece is to regulate the status of illegal migrants. This will help alleviate the shortage of workers in construction, agriculture and tourism.

However, experts believe that this is very little for the overall shortage of workers experienced by the sector. The demand for seasonal workers is much higher and reaches 80,000 people in regions such as Crete, Peloponnese and Macedonia. For example, the prefecture of Messinia alone needs about 4,800 agricultural workers for the entire growing season (nine months). Therefore, manufacturers expect more bold steps from the country's government.

For many people, life in Greece sounds like a dream, because in addition to a comfortable climate and warm sea, Greece offers expats employment prospects and a high level of wages. Read about the advantages and disadvantages of living here in this article.

Another nice bonus is that the Greek government is actively working to simplify the procedure for obtaining a residence permit, see the link for more details.

Daria Rogova, Head of Insurance at Visit World

To move, travel or work safely in a new country, you will need health insurance. You can apply for an extended policy on our website here.