
Greece is a popular destination for international students, offering a unique cultural and historical environment for learning and professional growth. With its sunny climate, affordable living costs, and top graduate business schools, it is an attractive prospect for students worldwide. For those considering Greece as a study destination, one important consideration is the opportunity to work during their studies. International students in Greece are typically allowed to work part-time, with a limit of 20-22 hours per week during the study period. However, there may be restrictions depending on nationality and the type of residence permit or visa held. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can enter Greece without a visa and are permitted to work, whereas non-EU citizens must obtain a student visa and may need to apply for a separate permit to work part-time. Greece offers internship opportunities across various industries, with remuneration varying by industry and company. Overall, Greece provides a wealth of opportunities for international students seeking to gain valuable work experience during their studies.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Work hours during studies | 20 hours per week (one source states 22 hours per week) |
| Work hours during vacation | 40 hours per week |
| Work permit for EU/EEA citizens | Not required |
| Work permit for non-EU/EEA citizens | Required |
| Visa options for post-graduation | Job search visa or residence permit for entrepreneurs |
| Visa fee | Approximately 150 EUR |
| Visa duration | Depends on the length of the study program |
| Visa application processing time | Within 15 working days |
| Visa application requirements | Medical test and embassy interview |
| Visa application submission | In person through the Greek consulate that has jurisdiction over the permanent state of residence |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn

International students' work hours in Greece
International students in Greece are typically allowed to work part-time during their studies, but work hours and visa requirements may vary depending on nationality and the type of residence permit. Students from EU/EEA countries can freely work in Greece without a visa, but those from non-EU/EEA countries must obtain a student visa and a separate permit for part-time work.
During the study period, international students in Greece can work up to 20 hours per week. During vacation periods, students can work up to 40 hours per week. Some sources state that students are legally allowed to work for 22 hours per week. It is important to consult with Greek authorities for the most up-to-date regulations and restrictions, as policies may have changed since 2021.
To obtain a student visa for Greece, individuals must apply through the Greek consulate that holds jurisdiction over their permanent state of residence. Most consulates require in-person submission of the application. The student visa fee depends on the country and can be around 150 EUR. The visa application process typically involves providing various documents, undergoing a medical examination, and participating in an embassy interview. After the interview, the visa result is usually received within 15 working days.
Greece offers a range of internship opportunities for international students across various industries, including hospitality, tourism, and business. Internship remuneration varies by industry, company, work experience, and duration of stay. While internships in certain sectors may provide stipends or benefits, student internships are generally unpaid. It is important to note that non-EU citizens must navigate a more complex set of rules to undertake an internship in Greece.
International Students Driving in Massachusetts: What's the Deal?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Visa requirements for international students
International students in Greece are typically allowed to work part-time during their studies, but there may be restrictions depending on their nationality and residence permit. Students are legally allowed to work for 20 hours per week during their studies, and up to 40 hours per week during vacation periods.
To study in Greece, you will generally need a student visa or residence permit. The availability and requirements for these visas may change, so it is advisable to consult the Greek immigration authorities or your university's international office for the latest information. EU/EEA/Swiss nationals can freely travel, work, and reside in Greece with either their passport or ID card. They do not require a student visa for Greece, but if their stay exceeds three months, they will need a residence permit.
Non-EU citizens must navigate a more complex set of rules to undertake an internship or study in Greece. To get a student visa, non-EU citizens will need an official acceptance letter from their chosen school in Greece, which must be an institution certified by the Greek Ministry of Education. They will also need to provide the following:
- A letter of invitation from the institution
- Proof of enrollment at the institution
- A letter of good standing from their current school
- A Passenger Locator Form
The process for applying for a student visa to Greece involves the following steps:
- Complete the Greece Application Form
- Schedule an appointment
- Collect the required documents
- Attend your visa appointment
- Wait for the visa to process
- Collect your passport
International Students: UK Student Loan Eligibility
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Work permit rules for non-EU citizens
International students in Greece are typically allowed to work part-time during their studies, but there may be restrictions depending on their nationality and residence permit. Non-EU citizens must comply with Greece's legal requirements for visas and work permits to ensure a smooth and lawful experience during their stay.
Non-EU citizens must follow a specific set of rules to undertake an internship or work in Greece. Here are the key points to consider:
- Visa Requirements: Non-EU citizens need to obtain the appropriate visa before travelling to Greece. The specific type of visa will depend on the purpose and duration of their stay. For example, a short-stay "C" visa allows a maximum stay of 90 days in the Schengen area, while a long-stay "D" visa is required for longer periods and includes a residence permit application option.
- Residence Permits: Non-EU citizens may need to obtain a residence permit, especially for long-term stays. This can be applied for once they are in Greece and is linked to their specific activities, such as employment or starting a business.
- Work Access Permit: Foreigners who are legally resident in Greece but do not have a work access permit are not allowed to be employed. Employers who violate this rule face significant fines.
- Specific Cases: There are certain cases where non-EU citizens can work with a specific type of visa. These include members of artistic groups, citizens providing a service, tour leaders, athletes, and coaches.
- Long-Term Residence/Work Permit: Non-EU citizens who have lived and worked in Greece for five continuous years with a valid residence/work permit can apply for an EU-wide residence/work permit. This option is only available to those not of Greek or European descent and grants them the same rights as European nationals.
- Internships: Non-EU citizens interested in internships in Greece must navigate a more complex set of rules. Internships may be unpaid, and remuneration varies by industry. Certain programs, such as Erasmus, require a training agreement endorsed by both the educational institution and the host organization.
- Employment Contract: To work legally in Greece, non-EU citizens must have a valid residence permit and an employment contract with a registered employer in the country.
International Students: Cooking Up a Storm
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Internship opportunities and remuneration
Greece offers a wide range of internship opportunities for international students across various sectors. The duration of internships varies by sector, with hospitality and tourism internships typically lasting between 8 weeks and 6 months, while business internships can range from 3 to 12 months. Summer placements through universities usually occur between June and August and last from 4 to 10 weeks. Internships are available year-round in most large cities, including Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patra.
When it comes to remuneration, internships in Greece may or may not be paid, depending on the industry. In sectors like hospitality, companies often provide housing or transportation assistance along with a modest stipend. However, this varies by industry and company, as well as the intern's work experience and duration of stay. Generally, student internships are not paid, so it is essential to plan ahead financially.
To secure an internship in Greece, students should start their search early and utilize resources provided by their university's international studies office or their department. It is also important to be aware of the visa requirements and necessary registrations, such as obtaining a student citizen number and registering for the mandatory Greek social security system.
Greece offers a unique cultural and historical backdrop for students to gain valuable work experience and explore the country's rich ancient history. With its laid-back culture and modern infrastructure, Greece provides a distinctive environment for both learning and professional growth.
Working Full-Time as an International Student: Is It Possible?
You may want to see also
Explore related products

Post-graduation visa options
International students in Greece are typically allowed to work part-time during their studies, with a limit of 20 hours per week. However, this permission does not automatically extend to full-time employment, and there may be restrictions depending on your nationality and residence permit. It is important to consult the Greek authorities for the most up-to-date regulations.
Greece offers several visa options for international students seeking to extend their stay after graduation. Here are some of the available options:
- Job Search Visa: This visa allows recent graduates to remain in Greece for a specified period to seek employment opportunities. It provides time to network, apply for jobs, and attend interviews without the immediate pressure of securing a work visa. The availability and requirements for this visa may change, so it is advisable to consult with Greek immigration authorities or your university's international office for the latest information.
- Residence Permit for Entrepreneurs: Greece may offer a visa pathway for graduates interested in entrepreneurship or self-employment. This option could be suitable for those with business ideas or aspirations to start their own ventures in Greece.
- Work Visa: If you secure employment after graduation, you will need to apply for a work visa. This process may vary depending on your nationality and the specific requirements of the job. It is important to note that the part-time work permit for students cannot be converted into a regular work visa.
- Internship Visa: Internships are a great way to gain practical experience and transition into the professional world. Greece offers internship opportunities across various industries, and some internships are specifically designed for recent graduates. It is important to note that internships in Greece may or may not be paid, and remuneration varies by industry and company. Additionally, non-EU citizens may need to navigate a more complex set of rules to undertake an internship in Greece.
- Erasmus Program: If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss national, the Erasmus program offers Student Mobility Grants that allow you to spend 3 to 12 months in another participating country, including Greece. This could be an option to gain international work experience while still being affiliated with your home university.
It is important to regularly check the official websites of Greek universities and the Greek Ministry of Education for the most current information on visa requirements and policies. Additionally, refer to the Greek embassy or consulate in your home country for specific application processes and requirements.
International Students: Investment Banking Careers Explored
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students in Greece are typically allowed to work part-time during their studies, but there may be restrictions depending on your nationality and the type of residence permit you have. EU/EEA citizens can work without a visa, but non-EU citizens must apply for a permit to work part-time.
Students are legally allowed to work for up to 20 hours per week during their study period, and up to 40 hours per week during vacation periods.
The process for obtaining a student visa for Greece depends on your country of origin. Citizens of the EU/EEA do not need a visa to study in Greece. Non-EU citizens must obtain a student visa by applying to the Greek consulate that has jurisdiction over their state of residence.
To obtain a student visa, you must provide the necessary documents for university admission and apply for admission. You will also need to prepare a visa file with a PCC apostilled and your last degree certificate apostilled. After submitting your visa file, you will be guided through a medical test, and if needed, an embassy interview will be scheduled.











































