What are the unskilled jobs for foreign workers in Greece?
Are you dreaming of working in Greece but worried about your lack of specialised skills? You're not alone. Many foreigners are drawn to the allure of Greek culture, stunning landscapes, and Mediterranean lifestyle, but wonder: "What job opportunities are available for me?"
The good news is that Greece offers a variety of unskilled jobs for foreign workers, from sun-soaked olive groves to bustling beachfront tavernas. Whether you're seeking a short-term adventure or a long-term relocation, understanding the Greek job market for unskilled labor can open doors to exciting opportunities. In this post, we'll explore eight key areas where foreign workers can find employment in Greece, even without specialised skills or advanced qualifications.
Understanding the Greek Job Market for Foreign Workers
Current economic situation in Greece
Greece's economy has shown signs of recovery in recent years, but challenges remain. The country has experienced moderate growth, with a focus on rebuilding key sectors such as tourism and agriculture. However, unemployment rates remain a concern, particularly for young people and foreign workers.
|
Economic Indicator |
Current Status |
|---|---|
|
GDP Growth Rate |
Moderate |
|
Unemployment Rate |
High |
|
Key Growth Sectors |
Tourism, Agriculture |
|
Foreign Investment |
Increasing |
Legal requirements for foreign workers
Foreign workers in Greece must navigate specific legal requirements to work legally:
- Valid work permit or residence permit
- Registration with Greek social security system
- Tax identification number (AFM)
- Health insurance coverage
Non-EU citizens typically face stricter regulations compared to EU nationals, who benefit from freedom of movement within the European Union.
Sectors with high demand for unskilled labor
Several sectors in Greece offer opportunities for unskilled foreign workers:
- Agriculture: Seasonal work in fruit and vegetable harvesting
- Tourism and hospitality: Hotels, restaurants, and resorts
- Construction: Manual labor and basic building tasks
- Retail: Customer service and sales positions
- Domestic work: Housekeeping and caregiving
These sectors often experience labor shortages, creating opportunities for foreign workers seeking unskilled jobs in Greece. However, competition can be fierce, and language skills may be an advantage in certain positions.
Agricultural Jobs
Seasonal fruit and vegetable picking
Greece's agricultural sector offers numerous opportunities for foreign workers seeking unskilled jobs. Seasonal fruit and vegetable picking is one of the most accessible entry points. The Mediterranean climate provides ideal conditions for a variety of crops, creating a year-round demand for labor.
Popular fruits and vegetables harvested in Greece include:
- Tomatoes
- Cucumbers
- Strawberries
- Peaches
- Watermelons
Regions known for fruit and vegetable production:
|
Region |
Major Crops |
|---|---|
|
Peloponnese |
Citrus fruits, olives |
|
Crete |
Tomatoes, cucumbers |
|
Macedonia |
Peaches, cherries |
|
Thessaly |
Apples, pears |
Olive harvesting
Olive harvesting is a crucial part of Greece's agricultural industry. The country is one of the world's largest producers of olives and olive oil. This seasonal work typically occurs between November and February, providing ample opportunities for foreign workers.
Vineyard work
Greece's wine industry offers various unskilled jobs in vineyards. Tasks may include:
- Pruning vines
- Tying vines
- Harvesting grapes
- Assisting in wine production
Popular wine-producing regions include Nemea, Santorini, and Macedonia.
Animal husbandry
Animal husbandry is another sector where foreign workers can find unskilled jobs in Greece. This work involves caring for livestock such as sheep, goats, and cattle. Tasks may include feeding, cleaning, and assisting with milking or shearing.
Now that we've explored agricultural jobs, let's move on to opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry, another significant sector for unskilled foreign workers in Greece.
Hospitality and Tourism Industry
Hotel housekeeping
Hotel housekeeping is a popular entry-level job for foreign workers in Greece's thriving hospitality industry. This role involves maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in hotel rooms, common areas, and facilities. Tasks typically include:
- Making beds and changing linens
- Vacuuming and mopping floors
- Cleaning bathrooms and restocking toiletries
- Dusting and wiping surfaces
- Restocking minibars and room amenities
Many hotels in Greece offer on-the-job training, making it accessible for unskilled workers. Language skills are helpful but not always required for this position.
Restaurant staff
Greece's bustling restaurant scene offers numerous opportunities for foreign workers. Positions may include:
|
Position |
Responsibilities |
|---|---|
|
Dishwasher |
Cleaning dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment |
|
Kitchen helper |
Assisting chefs, preparing ingredients, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness |
|
Busser |
Clearing tables, setting up dining areas, and assisting waitstaff |
|
Food runner |
Delivering food from kitchen to tables |
These roles often require minimal experience and provide a chance to learn about Greek cuisine and hospitality.
Bar and café workers
Greece's vibrant bar and café culture creates opportunities for foreign workers in roles such as:
- Barista
- Bar back
- Café server
- Cashier
These positions often involve preparing and serving beverages, handling cash transactions, and maintaining a clean work environment. Basic communication skills in Greek or English are usually beneficial.
Beach attendants
With its numerous coastal resorts and beaches, Greece offers seasonal work for beach attendants. Responsibilities may include:
- Setting up and maintaining beach umbrellas and loungers
- Assisting guests with beach equipment rentals
- Enforcing beach safety rules
- Keeping the beach area clean and tidy
This role is ideal for those who enjoy working outdoors and interacting with tourists.
Tour guide assistants
While becoming a licensed tour guide requires specific qualifications, there are opportunities for unskilled workers as tour guide assistants. These roles may involve:
- Assisting with logistics and coordination
- Helping with group management
- Providing basic information to tourists
- Handling equipment and supplies for tours
This position offers a chance to learn about Greek history and culture while working in the tourism industry.
Construction and Manual Labor
General construction workers
General construction workers play a vital role in Greece's booming construction industry. These jobs often require physical strength and basic skills, making them accessible to foreign workers. Here's a breakdown of typical tasks and requirements:
|
Task |
Description |
Skill Level |
|---|---|---|
|
Site preparation |
Clearing land, digging foundations |
Low |
|
Material handling |
Loading/unloading supplies, moving equipment |
Low to Medium |
|
Assisting skilled workers |
Helping carpenters, electricians, plumbers |
Medium |
|
Basic construction |
Mixing cement, laying bricks, erecting scaffolding |
Medium |
Foreign workers interested in construction jobs should be prepared for physically demanding work and outdoor conditions. While Greek language skills are beneficial, many construction sites have multilingual teams, making communication easier for non-Greek speakers.
Painting and decorating
Painting and decorating offer opportunities for those with an eye for detail and steady hands. These jobs often involve:
- Interior and exterior painting of buildings
- Wallpaper application
- Basic surface preparation and repair
- Finishing and touch-up work
Many foreign workers find success in this field, as it requires minimal language skills and often allows for flexible working arrangements.
Landscaping and gardening
Greece's beautiful landscapes and gardens require constant maintenance, creating opportunities for foreign workers in landscaping and gardening. Common tasks include:
- Planting and maintaining flowers, shrubs, and trees
- Mowing lawns and trimming hedges
- Installing irrigation systems
- Basic hardscaping (building paths, retaining walls)
These jobs are particularly prevalent in tourist areas and private residences, offering a chance to work in picturesque settings.
Cleaning and maintenance
Cleaning and maintenance jobs are widely available across Greece, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations. These positions often include:
- Hotel room cleaning and preparation
- Office and commercial space maintenance
- Residential cleaning services
- Basic building maintenance and repairs
Many foreign workers start in these roles due to their accessibility and potential for stable employment. While some Greek language skills can be helpful, many employers in this sector are accustomed to working with non-native speakers.
Retail and Customer Service
Shop assistants
Shop assistants play a crucial role in the Greek retail sector, offering opportunities for foreign workers seeking unskilled jobs. These positions often require minimal prior experience, making them accessible to newcomers in the country. Shop assistants typically handle tasks such as:
- Greeting and assisting customers
- Restocking shelves and maintaining store appearance
- Operating cash registers and processing payments
- Answering product-related questions
Many shops in tourist areas prefer multilingual staff, giving an advantage to foreign workers who speak multiple languages.
Supermarket staff
Supermarkets in Greece offer various unskilled positions for foreign workers, including:
- Cashiers
- Stock clerks
- Produce handlers
- Cleaning staff
These roles provide stable employment opportunities and often offer flexible working hours. Here's a comparison of common supermarket positions:
|
Position |
Main Responsibilities |
Language Requirements |
|---|---|---|
|
Cashier |
Operating registers, handling payments |
Basic Greek, English helpful |
|
Stock Clerk |
Restocking shelves, organizing inventory |
Minimal language skills needed |
|
Produce Handler |
Managing fruit and vegetable displays |
Basic Greek beneficial |
|
Cleaning Staff |
Maintaining store cleanliness |
Minimal language skills needed |
Market vendors
Greece's vibrant outdoor markets, known as "laiki," present opportunities for foreign workers to engage in unskilled labor. Market vendors typically:
- Set up and dismantle stalls
- Display and organize products
- Interact with customers and handle sales
- Assist with transportation of goods
Working as a market vendor can be an excellent way for foreign workers to immerse themselves in Greek culture while earning income. However, basic Greek language skills are often necessary for effective communication with customers and fellow vendors.
Domestic Work
House cleaning
House cleaning is a common domestic work opportunity for foreign workers in Greece. This job typically involves:
- Dusting and vacuuming
- Mopping floors
- Cleaning bathrooms and kitchens
- Laundry and ironing
- Window cleaning
Many Greek families and businesses seek reliable house cleaners, creating a steady demand for these services. Foreign workers can find both part-time and full-time positions in this field.
|
Advantages |
Challenges |
|---|---|
|
Flexible hours |
Physical demands |
|
No formal education required |
Language barriers |
|
Potential for multiple clients |
Limited career growth |
Elderly care
As Greece's population ages, the demand for elderly care workers continues to grow. Foreign workers in this field may be responsible for:
- Assisting with daily activities
- Medication management
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Companionship
Childcare and babysitting
Many Greek families seek trustworthy childcare providers, creating opportunities for foreign workers. Childcare responsibilities often include:
- Supervising children
- Preparing meals and snacks
- Assisting with homework
- Organizing activities
- Light housekeeping related to childcare
Foreign workers interested in domestic work in Greece should be aware of the legal requirements, including work permits and registration with the appropriate authorities. While these jobs may not require advanced skills, they often demand reliability, patience, and cultural sensitivity. As the demand for domestic workers continues to grow in Greece, foreign workers can find stable employment opportunities in this sector.
Food Processing and Manufacturing
Factory workers
Factory workers play a crucial role in Greece's food processing and manufacturing industry. These positions often require minimal prior experience, making them accessible to foreign workers. Tasks typically include operating machinery, assembling products, and maintaining a clean work environment.
|
Job Responsibilities |
Skills Required |
|---|---|
|
Operating machinery |
Physical stamina |
|
Assembly line work |
Attention to detail |
|
Cleaning equipment |
Basic communication |
|
Following safety protocols |
Teamwork |
Foreign workers interested in factory jobs should be prepared for shift work and potentially physically demanding tasks. Many food processing plants are located in rural areas, so transportation may be a consideration.
Packaging and labeling
Packaging and labeling jobs are essential in the food processing industry. These positions involve:
- Wrapping and sealing products
- Applying labels accurately
- Checking product weights
- Ensuring packaging meets quality standards
Foreign workers in these roles should have good hand-eye coordination and be able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of Greek is helpful but not always required, as many tasks are visual and repetitive.
Quality control assistants
Quality control assistants help ensure that food products meet safety and quality standards. This role may involve:
- Visual inspection of products
- Basic testing procedures
- Recording and reporting quality issues
- Adhering to hygiene protocols
While these positions may require slightly more responsibility than other factory roles, they often remain accessible to foreign workers with limited experience. Attention to detail and a commitment to food safety are crucial for success in this role.
Now that we've explored opportunities in food processing and manufacturing, let's look at how foreign workers can find these unskilled jobs in Greece.
Finding Unskilled Jobs in Greece
Online job portals
For foreign workers seeking unskilled jobs in Greece, online job portals are an excellent starting point. These platforms offer a wide range of opportunities across various sectors. Here are some popular job portals to explore:
- Indeed Greece
- Kariera.gr
- XpatAthens.com
- Workable.com
When using these portals, filter your search using keywords like "unskilled," "entry-level," or specific job titles in Greek and English. Remember to regularly check and update your profile to increase visibility to potential employers.
Local employment agencies
Employment agencies can be valuable allies in your job search. They often have connections with local businesses and can match you with suitable positions. Some reputable agencies include:
|
Agency Name |
Specialization |
|---|---|
|
Adecco Greece |
General staffing |
|
Manpower Greece |
Temporary and permanent placements |
|
Randstad Hellas |
Various industries |
Visit their offices in person or check their websites for current openings in unskilled sectors like agriculture, hospitality, and construction.
Networking within expat communities
Tapping into expat networks can provide insider information about job opportunities. Join Facebook groups, attend meetups, and participate in online forums where fellow foreigners share their experiences and job leads. Some popular expat communities include:
- InterNations Athens
- Expats in Greece (Facebook group)
- Meetup.com (search for expat groups in Greek cities)
Seasonal job fairs
Seasonal job fairs are particularly useful for finding work in tourism and agriculture. These events often take place before peak seasons:
- Spring: For summer tourism and agricultural jobs
- Fall: For winter tourism in ski resorts and olive harvesting
Check local event listings and municipality websites for upcoming job fairs in your area. Prepare your resume and be ready to interview on the spot.
Conclusion:
Greece offers a range of unskilled job opportunities for foreign workers across various sectors. The agricultural industry, hospitality and tourism sector, construction field, retail and customer service roles, domestic work, and food processing and manufacturing all provide potential employment options. These jobs can serve as entry points for foreigners looking to work and live in Greece.
While finding unskilled work in Greece may present challenges, understanding the job market and exploring different sectors can increase your chances of success. It's important to research visa requirements, learn basic Greek language skills, and consider networking with local communities to enhance your job prospects. By leveraging these opportunities and being prepared, foreign workers can find rewarding unskilled jobs and experience the rich culture and beauty Greece has to offer.
Unskilled Jobs for Foreign Workers in Greece (2025)
- Agricultural Worker
- Duties: Harvesting crops, planting, fruit picking, livestock care
- Salary: €600 – €800/month
- Construction Worker
- Duties: Assisting skilled laborers, site cleaning, moving materials
- Salary: €700 – €900/month
- Hotel Housekeeping Staff
- Duties: Cleaning rooms, making beds, restocking supplies
- Salary: €600 – €800/month
- Factory Worker
- Duties: Operating machines, packaging, assembling products
- Salary: €650 – €850/month
- Warehouse Worker
- Duties: Loading/unloading goods, inventory management
- Salary: €650 – €850/month
- Cleaner
- Duties: Cleaning offices, homes, public spaces
- Salary: €550 – €700/month
- Kitchen Helper
- Duties: Basic food preparation, dishwashing, cleaning the kitchen
- Salary: €600 – €800/month
- Delivery Driver
- Duties: Delivering food or goods, maintaining the vehicle
- Salary: €700 – €900/month
- Fisheries Worker
- Duties: Fish processing, net repair, loading/unloading catch
- Salary: €600 – €800/month
- Seasonal Tourism Worker
- Duties: Assisting in restaurants, shops, and resorts during tourist season
- Salary: €600 – €850/month
Top FAQs for Unskilled Jobs in Greece
- Can foreign workers apply for unskilled jobs in Greece?
Yes, foreign workers can apply for unskilled jobs in Greece, especially in agriculture, construction, tourism, and hospitality sectors. - What is the average salary for unskilled workers in Greece?
Salaries for unskilled jobs in Greece range between €550 to €900/month, depending on the industry and location. - Which industries are most open to hiring unskilled foreign workers?
Key industries include agriculture, construction, hospitality, tourism, and manufacturing. - Is it necessary to speak Greek for unskilled jobs?
Not always. Basic Greek is helpful but not mandatory for jobs in agriculture, cleaning, or kitchen help. However, knowing Greek can improve job prospects. - How do foreign workers get a work permit for unskilled jobs in Greece?
The employer must first apply for a work permit. Once approved, the worker can apply for a national visa at the Greek consulate in their country. - What documents are required for a work visa for unskilled jobs in Greece?
- Valid passport
- Job offer/employment contract
- Work permit
- Proof of accommodation
- Health insurance
- Visa application form
- What is the working week like for unskilled jobs in Greece?
The standard working week is 40 hours, with potential overtime depending on the job and employer. - Do unskilled workers get health insurance in Greece?
Yes, legally employed workers are entitled to health insurance through Greece’s social security system (EFKA). - Are there seasonal job opportunities for unskilled workers?
Yes, seasonal work is available in agriculture and the tourism sector, especially during the summer months. - Can unskilled workers bring their families to Greece?
Yes, but family reunification is possible after the worker secures a residence permit and meets specific requirements.
