How does EU Blue Card (Highly Skilled Employment) work in Greece, and who qualifies?

The EU Blue Card (Highly Skilled Employment) is Greece's route for highly qualified non-EU professionals. To qualify you need an employment contract of at least six months, a gross annual salary at or above the Blue Card threshold (a multiple of the average Greek salary), higher professional qualifications (a degree or equivalent experience), and health insurance covering standard risks.

The Blue Card carries enhanced rights and a faster path to EU long-term residence than ordinary work permits. Processing is generally 90 days, reduced to 30 days where the employer is a recognised employer — a meaningful advantage if your company holds that status. The permit fee is EUR 150 plus a EUR 16 card fee.

For highly qualified graduates and professionals with a Greek job offer, the Blue Card is usually the most favourable employment route because it offers a more streamlined, employer-driven process than the standard employed-worker permit, which depends on the national admission quota. Salary thresholds are tied to average pay and reviewed periodically, so confirm the current figure before applying. ACME can help you check whether your role and salary qualify.