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Location Advice: Greece

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Greece is a country in southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. It consists of a mainland and thousands of islands in the Aegean and Ionian Seas. Greece is famous for its ancient ruins, stunning beaches, and warm Mediterranean climate. The country is a member of the European Union and the Schengen Zone. Greece shares land borders with Albania to the northwest, North Macedonia and Bulgaria to the north, and Turkey to the northeast.

Greece at a Glance

Capital City: Athens

Population: Around 10 million

Currency: Euro €

Time Zone: EET/EEST

Climate

Greece has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Coastal areas experience pleasant sea breezes, while northern regions can be cooler in winter.

Religion

The official religion of Greece is Eastern Orthodox Christianity. However, Greece is a multicultural country, and various other religions are practiced.

Language

Greek is the official language of Greece with 99% of the population speaking.
Other languages spoken in Greece include English, German, French, Italian, Macedonian, Albanian and Turkish.

Government

Greece is a parliamentary republic. The President is the Head of State, while the Prime Minister is the Head of Government. The Hellenic Parliament is responsible for legislative matters.

Tax Rules

  • Up to €10,000: 9%
  • €10,001 to €20,000: 22%
  • €20,001 to €30,000: 28%
  • €30,001 to €40,000: 36%
  • Over €40,000: 44%

Tax rates can vary based on residency status and other factors. For more information.

Working Hours/Days

A typical workweek is 40 hours, with standard hours from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM or 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday. Some industries operate with flexible schedules or shifts.

Public Holidays

  • New Year’s Day – Jan 1

  • Epiphany – Jan 6

  • Clean Monday – 6th Monday before Palm Sunday

  • Greek Independence Day – Mar 25

  • Orthodox Good Friday - Varies

  • Orthodox Easter Monday - Varies

  • Labour Day – May 1

  • Pentecost Monday - Varies

  • Assumption Day – Aug 15

  • National Anniversary Day – 28 Oct

  • Christmas Day – 25 Day

  • Boxing Day – 26 Dec

Statutory Benefits

  • Social Security Coverage
  • Public Healthcare System (EOPYY)
  • Paid Annual Leave
  • Maternity and Paternity Leave
  • Unemployment Benefits
  • Pension Contributions

More information.

Pension Policy

The Greek pension system consists of three pillars: the public social security pension, occupational pensions, and private pension schemes. Employees contribute to social security, with contributions shared between the employer and employee.

Further details.

Visa Requirements

Visa requirements for Greece depend on your nationality and purpose of stay. EU/EEA citizens don’t need a visa, while travelers from many countries can visit visa-free for up to 90 days. For longer stays or work purposes, a visa may be required.

Visit the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs for details.

Landmarks

Greece is home to numerous historical landmarks, including the Acropolis, Meteora, Santorini, Delphi, and Mycenae. These sites offer a glimpse into the country’s ancient civilization and architectural brilliance.

Museums and Galleries

Greece has a wealth of museums and galleries, such as the National Archaeological Museum, Acropolis Museum, and Benaki Museum, which showcase the nation's cultural and historical heritage.

Theatre and Arts

Greek theatre dates back to ancient times, and today, visitors can still enjoy performances at historic venues like the Epidaurus Theatre. Modern productions and artistic events are also held in Athens and Thessaloniki.

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Greece boasts stunning natural landscapes, from Mount Olympus to Samaria Gorge and Vikos Gorge. Visitors can hike, swim, and explore breathtaking scenery throughout the country.

Shopping and Markets

Athens' Ermou Street, Monastiraki Flea Market, and Plaka offer a mix of traditional and modern shopping experiences, with everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion.

Seasonal Activities

Greece is famous for its seasonal events, including the Athens Epidaurus Festival, Thessaloniki International Film Festival, Greek Carnival (Apokries), and traditional Christmas markets.

Historical Viewings

Greece has a vast number of historical sites to visit, including Ancient Olympia, Knossos Palace, and Byzantine Monasteries, each offering unique insights into the country’s rich history.

Getting Around

Greece has an extensive transport system including buses, metro systems (Athens, Thessaloniki), ferries to islands, and trains for intercity travel. There are many destinations accessible by ferry or flight, such as Crete, Rhodes, Corfu, and Mykonos. Greece also connects to European destinations via train and flight.

Accommodation

Housing costs vary widely between Athens, Thessaloniki, and the islands. Rental prices are generally lower than in Western Europe.

Schooling

Greece has public and private schools, with international schools available in major cities. Higher education is free for Greek and EU citizens at public universities.
Greece Is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe; National and Kapodistrian University of Athens as well as a top-ranked institution for economics, business and management studies with Athens University of Economics and Business.

Car and Fuel Costs

The Fuel costs in the UK can fluctuate week to week however, we can draw an average.
Diesel: 1.70 Euro per litre
Gasoline: 1.85 Euro per litre

Healthcare

Greece provides universal healthcare through the National Health System (ESY). Residents also have access to private healthcare facilities.

Entertainment

Average cost of a Pint of Beer in Greece - €4-€6
Average cost of a Pint of Coke in Greece - €2-€3
Average cost of a 3-course Meal in Greece - Around €30-€50 excluding drinks

If you are looking to relocate to Greece, please speak to one of our recruitment experts as they can have an in-depth conversation with you regarding relocation and can assist you the best way they can.

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