How can a skilled worker move to Greece for a job?

For most skilled workers, the move starts with a Greek job offer. If you are highly qualified — with a degree or equivalent experience — and the role pays at or above the Blue Card threshold (a multiple of the average Greek salary) on a contract of at least six months, the EU Blue Card is usually the best route. It carries enhanced rights and a faster path to EU long-term residence, and processing is generally 90 days, dropping to 30 days where your employer is a recognised employer.

If your role does not meet the Blue Card criteria, the standard employed-worker permit (dependent work) applies. The catch is the admission-quota system: your position must appear in the current national admission decision, which Greece sets periodically for specific specialties, so the availability of a slot can affect your timing. A separate seasonal scheme covers agriculture and tourism.

If you are being transferred within a multinational group rather than hired directly, the ICT permit is the right route instead. Salary thresholds, quotas and fees are reviewed periodically, so confirm current figures on the official portals before applying. ACME can help you and your employer choose between the Blue Card, the employed-worker permit and the ICT route.