Work in Greece Without Greek - Globaloptimizer.com

Living In Greece As An Expat

Greece’s admission to the EU in 1981 signaled the start of a more expat-friendly environment for foreign nationals. Prior to this, Greece was a developing country where expats frequently had to wait more than two years for a phone line, and cars were rarely seen on the road.

However, membership in the EU significantly improved living standards and made life easier, even if this may have come at the expense of Greece’s previously untouched nature.

Greece still needs to become more popular among expats than some European neighbors. This is mostly due to the fact that there are fewer international companies here. Before moving to Greece, you should be aware that opportunities for advancement are less plentiful than in other European countries.

However, the country does welcome foreign workers, and because Greece heavily promotes tourism, there are typically opportunities in this industry, such as becoming a tour guide, opening a business, or managing hotels. Those considering relocating to this beautiful country should secure a job first, as unemployment is fairly high (9.5 percent). The destination guide can provide a list of useful resources to assist you with this process throughout.

Cost Of Living In Greece

Greece is a member of the European Union and uses the Euro as its currency. Although the cost of living in Greece is generally 30% lower than in many other European countries, the average local salary in Greece is also lower. However, social security rates in Greece are lower than in the average EU country, so expats earning a local salary will be able to live comfortably.

Food is extremely cheap in Greece, particularly on Rhodes, where there are no import duties, making it a better place to live than many other European countries. The cost of living in Greece is expected to fall even further in the coming months as a result of deflation caused by the economic crisis.

Our international relocation guides include detailed living costs for various lifestyles and living options in various popular expatriate destinations. Because expats in Greece write our guides, you can be confident that the information is accurate, up-to-date, and trustworthy.

Living In Greece: Language

99% of Greeks are fluent in the language. English and French are the most commonly spoken languages.

Climate In Greece

Greece’s climate is Mediterranean, with hot, dry days and cool, mild winters. There could be snowfall in some parts of Greece during the winter months, but mostly in the mountainous regions of the mainland.

Career And Job Opportunities For Expats In Greece

If you do not speak Modern Greek, it may be not easy to find work in Greece. Many English-speaking multinational corporations may also consider hiring non-Greek expats.

Working In Greece

EU residents can live and work in Greece for three months before applying for a residency permit. This procedure is simple and entails registering with the local police. Non-EU nationals must follow a more formal immigration procedure, which includes obtaining a work permit, represented by a visa. One can be obtained from the nearest Greek Consulate Office.

Because Greece has a higher unemployment rate than the rest of the EU and fewer multinational corporations, finding work may take time. The ability to communicate in Greek is frequently required. You may have the best of both worlds if you are hired by a foreign company or you work remotely while living in Greece.

On the other hand, businesses may implement general work schedules to shorten the workweek. Paid leave for permanent employees begins at 20 days per year.

Jobs For US Citizens

There are still some job opportunities in Greece for people who need to speak the language. There are also many industries, with English teaching and tourism having the most vacancies. You can work at an embassy or as an American company’s overseas representative in Greece.

Is Remote Work Possible?

Con: It Can Be Challenging To Find A Job

Foreigners with a job may have a challenging time finding work in Greece. Even though it is decreasing, Greece’s unemployment rate remains quite high. Companies typically prefer to hire EU citizens over expats outside the EU due to the lengthy procedures involved. While knowing Greek can assist expats in finding work, it does not guarantee employment.

The Most Important Things Every Expat Should Know Before Moving To Greece

Greece is notorious for having one of the worst healthcare systems in Europe, and expatriates have no access to healthcare. As a result, if you intend to live in Greece, you must have private healthcare insurance before moving there.
Every region in Greece has its own building regulations, so what works for one expat may not work for another.
Before relocating to Greece, you should know that payments are almost entirely made in cash, in Euros. Hotels usually accept credit cards, but most other local establishments, including tavernas, cafes, taxis, kiosks, street vendors, and other types of shops, only accept cash.
Because most of Greece’s sewerage systems need to be developed, you should not flush toilet paper down the toilet. It should be placed in a different bin.
In Greek culture, Tuesday the 13th is unlucky, not Friday the 13th.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Greece A Good Place To Live For Americans?

Greece is frequently relatively safe, with little serious crime. Although Athens is frequently more expensive than the rest of the country, it has one of the lowest living costs in the European Union.

Where Do American Expats Live In Greece?

Creta’s multinational community has grown steadily over the last 30 years. There is a much stronger sense of community and support from fellow expats here than on the mainland. As a result, Crete is, without a doubt, one of the best places in Greece for expats to live.

How Much Money Do I Need To Live Comfortably In Greece?

In general, a €2,000 monthly budget, which includes average monthly expenses and rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Athens’ city center, will allow you to live comfortably.