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Work permits in Acharnes follow national Greek immigration and employment law. The rules distinguish between EU/EEA/Swiss citizens and third-country nationals. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens generally have the right to work without a permit, while third-country nationals normally need a work permit and a corresponding residence permit. Greece has implemented the EU single-permit framework, which in many cases combines residence and work permission into a single administrative decision. Local procedures in Acharnes are administered through the relevant regional immigration offices, municipal services and national bodies such as the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, OAED and the Greek Labour Inspectorate.
Work permit procedures can be complex and often require accurate documentation, correct classification of the employment relationship, and precise timing. You may need a lawyer if you are a third-country national applying for your first permit, if you face a refusal or deportation order, if your employer refuses to register you for social security, if you are seeking to change employer or work category, or if you need to appeal an administrative decision. Lawyers also help in drafting compliant employment contracts, resolving disputes about working conditions, ensuring proper registration with tax and social security authorities, and navigating fast-changing rules and case law.
Key legal principles relevant to work permits in Acharnes include the following. First, nationality matters - EU/EEA/Swiss citizens have different rules from third-country nationals. Second, work permits vary by category - salaried employment, seasonal work, independent activity, intra-company transfers, research or highly skilled work such as the EU Blue Card. Third, the Single Permit system often means one application covers both residence and permission to work, but separate steps may be required for some categories. Fourth, employers have obligations - they must register employees for social security with EFKA, ensure a valid employment contract, and meet tax registration requirements such as obtaining an AFM for the employee. Fifth, administrative deadlines and remedies - applications are subject to statutory processing times, and refusals can usually be challenged through administrative review and judicial appeal in administrative courts. Finally, non-compliance can lead to fines for employers, termination of employment, and removal proceedings for the worker.
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a work permit to take up employment in Greece. Third-country nationals normally need a work permit and a residence permit for employment. Specific exemptions exist for certain categories such as diplomats, some researchers, and certain cross-border workers - eligibility depends on the exact circumstances.
In most cases the employer starts the process by submitting required documents to the competent authority and registering the job vacancy where needed. You will typically need to provide identity documents, an employment contract or job offer, proof of qualifications, a passport, criminal record checks, and health insurance. Check with the local immigration office or a lawyer for the precise checklist for your case.
The Single Permit is a combined residence and work authorization for third-country nationals. If you are coming to Greece for long-term employment, you may be eligible for a Single Permit - this simplifies procedures by producing one administrative decision covering both residence and work. Eligibility and procedures vary by permit type and duration of stay.
Processing times vary by permit type, the completeness of the file, and current administrative workload. Many first-instance decisions for single permits are expected within a targeted period such as three months, but delays can and do occur. Seasonal or short-term permits are processed faster, while complicated cases or appeals take longer.
Whether you can work while an application is pending depends on your current legal status. If you already hold a valid residence permit with work rights, you may continue to work. If you are waiting for a first permit and do not have lawful work authorization, you should not start work until permission is granted, unless a specific temporary authorization applies.
Typical documents include a valid passport, passport photos, a signed employment contract or job offer, proof of qualifications or professional licenses where required, criminal record certificate, health insurance, proof of tax registration or AFM, and proof of social security registration with EFKA when applicable. Employers must supply corporate documents and statements about the job vacancy and salary.
If your application is refused you have the right to be informed of the reasons and the legal remedies available. Remedies usually include administrative review, objection to the decision, and appeal to the administrative courts. Time limits apply for filing appeals, so consult a lawyer quickly to preserve your rights and prepare evidence to challenge the decision.
Changing employers is possible but may require a new permit or an amendment to your existing permit depending on the permit conditions. Some permits are employer-specific and a change will trigger a fresh application. Speak with a lawyer before changing jobs to ensure you do not fall out of legal status.
Yes, seasonal work permits have different durations and procedures. They are common in agriculture, tourism and related sectors and usually allow work for a specified season or number of months per year. Seasonal permits often require less documentation but still need employer sponsorship and timely application.
Penalties can include fines for the employer, fines for the worker, termination of employment, and removal proceedings for the third-country national. Employers who hire unauthorized workers may face substantial administrative fines and other sanctions, and the worker may be detained or expelled in severe cases. It is important to maintain lawful status and ensure proper registrations.
Relevant bodies and resources that can help people in Acharnes include the Ministry of Migration and Asylum, which sets immigration policy and oversees applications; OAED - the Greek Manpower Employment Organization - for employment and vacancy registration issues; the regional Aliens and Immigration Departments for local applications and inquiries; Citizen Service Centers - KEP - for guidance on procedures and document support; EFKA for social security registration; the local tax office for AFM issues; and the Greek Labour Inspectorate for workplace compliance and rights enforcement. Local municipal offices in Acharnes can also provide basic orientation and direct you to the right regional office.
If you need legal assistance with a work permit in Acharnes, follow these steps. First, collect your identity documents, passport, and any job offer or contract. Second, obtain proof of qualifications and arrange translations and certifications where necessary. Third, consult a lawyer who specializes in immigration and employment law - ask about experience with work permits and appeals in Greece and in the Attica region. Fourth, contact the local KEP or the regional immigration office to confirm procedural details and current processing times. Fifth, ensure your employer is prepared to fulfill registration obligations with EFKA and the tax office. Finally, keep copies of all submissions and note statutory deadlines for renewals or appeals - acting early is essential to preserve your legal rights.
