Author Ioanna Chatzidavidou
Publish date: 26.08.2023
Have you ever imagined yourself moving to a real paradise to start your career? The appeal of waking up for work to sunny skies and crystal waters is definitely attractive. Not to omit the relaxed way of life. Pure bliss! Greece, located in Europe, boasts an extraordinary culture and historical legacy. It is one of the world's most exquisite countries.
Indeed, with its welcoming and amiable people, delicious cuisine, and pleasant Mediterranean climate, Greece seamlessly blends attractive features. Also, as a member of the EU and the Schengen region, Greece has simplified the process for global travelers to explore its charm. It's no wonder that this captivating country has the power to persuade anyone to extend their visit or even think about living here permanently.
Rising from Recession: Prosperity Amidst Challenges
Despite Greece's challenging economic decline, the country is about to start flourishing again. Therefore, Greece started attracting more and more foreigners eager to advance their careers. Surprisingly, there are number of English-speaking jobs in Greece for non-Greek speakers in the country. Many of these positions are offered by highly international companies where English serves as the lingua franca among employees.
English-Speaking Expats and the Job Landscape in Greece
Notably, people living abroad who speak English have a good chance of finding a job. This extends not just to multinational corporations but also to Greek-based companies engaged in international business ventures. Communication of course is frequently in English between these companies and their overseas counterparts. As a result, foreigners seeking employment in Greece may explore diverse industries and fit into the growing economy of the country.
However, embarking on a new journey in a foreign country can be challenging, and that's why we aim to assist you. To lend a hand, we've put together a list of top job chances in Greece for English-speaking professionals.
English-Speaking Career opportunities in Greece
As an English speaker in Greece, you can find opportunities in various sectors. Here are some jobs you can keep in mind:
English Language Teacher
Teaching one's native language is a popular choice for foreigners in Greece, as numerous private educational organizations teach languages from around the world. English teachers are in high demand in Greece. So, they can find opportunities in private language schools or by offering private tutoring services.
Actually, many language schools prefer hiring native English speakers or individuals with internationally recognized teaching qualifications such as TEFL or CELTA. Therefore, foreigners can step into this linguistic journey and share their native tongues through teaching. Unfortunately, teaching jobs in Greece are generally not considered highly paid compared to other professions. Depending on the experience, the average hourly wage for a teacher in a language school is €7 to €10, and for a private tutor, it's €10 to €20.
Below you can view some sources to find a job as an English teacher:
Tourism and Hospitality Industry
Greece is an ideal tourist destination. Actually, it attracts travelers from all corners of the world, creating a surge in demand for English-speaking professionals in the hospitality industry. Hotels, resorts, and restaurants eagerly seek staff proficient in English to cater to the needs of their diverse international clientele.
You can find jobs like seasoned hotel managers, chefs, waiters, tour guides, travel agents, or cabin crew. There are many opportunities for those looking to venture into this vibrant sector. So, if you have a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences, the realm of hospitality is a gateway to enter Greece's thriving job market.
Salaries in the tourism industry in Greece can vary widely. Some factors are the job role, the level of experience, the location, and the type of establishment (luxury hotel, small inn, etc.). Here are some rough estimates for the average salaries of different roles in the Greek tourism industry:
● Seasoned Hotel Managers: €1,500 to €3,500 per month
● Chefs: €1,200 to €2,000 per month
● Waiters: €700 to €1,200 per month (plus tips based on the customers)
● Tour Guides: €30 to €70 per tour
● Cabin Crew: €1000 to €1,600 per month
Below you can find some popular hotel chains and job search websites that look for seasonal workers:
Customer Support
Mastering the art of communication, both spoken and written is the key to unlocking a position in customer support. Fluency in additional languages might just be the secret sauce to stand out among the competition. Therefore, English speakers find themselves in high demand. This is because call centers and customer service roles in multinational companies eagerly welcome them into their dynamic teams. Embrace the challenge and polish your language skills. Whether you have a passion for hospitality or a tech-savvy flair, Greece invites you to leave your mark on the world of customer service.
The average annual salary for entry-level customer support representatives in Greece could range from €12,000 to €20,000.
Digital Marketing and Content Creation
In the fast-paced digital landscape, your talents in digital marketing, content creation, or graphic design open doors to a lot of possibilities. Companies in Greece, as well as international enterprises, seek creative minds to craft captivating English content for their online presence. If you enjoy writing stories or are good at social media, there are many chances in this field. Join the digital world and let your creativity shine as you create engaging campaigns and build important online experiences. What's more, you can use your English to make a mark in today's communication and marketing world.
The average salary for jobs in digital marketing, content creation, and graphic design in Greece can be around €12,000 to €25,000 per year.
Here are presented some digital marketing agencies and job search websites where you'll discover opportunities in this field:
IT and Tech Jobs
Even though Greece has been marked by economic challenges, the country has recently witnessed a technological awakening. E-commerce, mobile app development, and electronic transactions have begun to thrive. As a result, it paved the way for a need for technology-related professions. Remarkably, this growing industry warmly welcomes foreigners, offering equal opportunities alongside locals. Often without the requirement of Greek language proficiency.
In various sectors like IT, telecommunications, and software development, technical support jobs have become a gateway to career growth. So, English speakers can find good opportunities in technology companies and startups across Greek cities and islands. Let your technical skills and experience become the guiding force behind innovation and progress.
The average salaries for IT and tech jobs in Greece are based on factors such as the specific role, level of experience, industry, and the size of the company. Here are some approximate salary ranges for various IT and tech roles in Greece:
● Software Developer: €15,000 to €55,000 per year
● Data Scientist: €20,000 to €60,000 per year
● Network/Systems Administrator: €15,000 to €55,000 per year
● Cybersecurity Specialist: €20,000 to €60,000 per year
Find some companies and job search engines that offer such positions at the links below:
Finance and Business
Within multinational corporations, an array of exciting opportunities awaits English-speaking professionals like you. Whether your expertise lies in finance, sales, or business development, your fluency in English becomes your ticket to a rewarding career. Take the chance to collaborate with global minds and drive business growth on a global scale. Let your proficiency in the language of commerce open doors to prestigious positions in Greece's economic landscape.
The average salaries for jobs in finance, sales, and business development can depend on factors such as role, level of experience, industry, and the company's size:
● Finance: €20,000 to €80,000 per year
● Sales: €12,000 to €55,000 per year
● Business Development: €15,000 to €60,000 per year
In this list, you'll find various companies and job search platforms that advertise these job positions:
International Organizations
There are a lot of NGOs and international organizations seeking skilled individuals to take on roles in project management, research, and administration. Uniting forces with these dynamic organizations, you can contribute to meaningful initiatives and make a difference on an international scale. Moreover, your fluency in English becomes a bridge connecting diverse minds, opening the doors for collaborative and impactful endeavors.
Salaries for international organization employees might range from €20,000 to €50,000 per year, depending on the role and the organization's structure.
Some examples of international organizations in Greece:
English-speaking Nanny or Au Pair
If your heart is warmed by the laughter of children and the joy of nurturing young minds, this option might be your calling. Embrace a path that blends your love for kids with a touch of domestic flair and become a nanny or au pair. You'll discover a range of opportunities, from living full-time in the family's home to flexible arrangements that suit your lifestyle. While some families seek bilingual caregivers, rest assured that many cherish native English speakers.
The average salary for English-speaking nannies in Greece can vary based on the nanny's qualifications, responsibilities, and working hours. Live-in nannies could earn from €600 to €1,500, while live-out nannies could earn from €600 to €1,200.
Discover nanny and au pair job opportunities on these platforms related to childcare:
Cost of Living in Greece
The cost of living in Greece is generally lower compared to many other Western European countries, but it can still vary based on location and individual lifestyle. In major cities like Athens and Thessaloniki, the cost of living is typically higher than in more rural areas. Here are some approximate monthly costs for various expenses in Greece:
● Rent (1-bedroom apartment in city center): €400 - €600
● Groceries: €150 - €250
● Dining out: €10 - €25 per meal
● Public transportation: €27 (1 month bus/metro/tram ticket)
● Utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): €80 - €120
Visa Requirements
Any non-European Union (EU) citizen intending to stay and work in Greece for over 90 days needs to secure a type D visa, also known as a National Visa. This visa must be acquired prior to entering Greece and can be obtained from the Greek Embassy or Consular Section in the individual's home country.
You will need to gather all the necessary documents to acquire a work visa for Greece. These documents encompass:
● A fully completed application form for a D visa in either English or Greek
● A passport that remains valid for a minimum of three months beyond the D visa's expiration date
● A recent color photograph in passport size, taken within the last six months
● Travel medical insurance that remains valid throughout the D visa's duration
● A copy of your criminal background
● Prove of employment contract
European citizens, though, don’t need to have a Visa. They just need a tax number and a resident permit. Below is a general overview of the steps:
Tax Number (AFM - ΑΦΜ) Requirements:
● Valid passport or ID
● Proof of address (utility bill or rental agreement)
You can apply for a tax number at your local tax office (DOY - ΔΟΥ) in Greece. Visit the office, fill out the necessary forms, and submit the required documents. You will be issued a tax number once your application is processed.
Residence Permit Requirements:
If you plan to stay in Greece for more than three months, it's recommended to register your presence with the local authorities. This registration is often done at the local police station or town hall. You may be asked to provide documents such as a valid passport or ID, proof of address, and possibly proof of financial means, and health insurance coverage. Make sure you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or a private health insurance plan that covers your stay in Greece. This will ensure you have access to the necessary healthcare services. If you're renting accommodation, you might need to provide a rental agreement as proof of address.
Finding Your Place: Tips for Landing a Job in Greece
The path to securing a job in Greece is similar to the process in any other European country. Crafting a well-written CV is the crucial first step in your job search. In Greece, the Europass template has gained popularity and is readily accepted. While a motivation or cover letter isn't always mandatory, multinational companies based in Greece might request one.
The interview itself follows a familiar structure to other European countries. You'll likely be asked to share insights about your background and professional journey. In addition, in some instances, larger organizations might conduct skills tests to complement the interview process. Highlight your adaptability and capacity to thrive in diverse teams, as collaboration and teamwork hold significant value for Greek companies. Furthermore, let your passion for Greek culture shine through, and express your eagerness to contribute to the company's success.
The Vision Factory team wishes you good luck and hopes you find your dream job in Greece.
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