Minimum Wage in Greece: Rates, Trends & Compliance

What Is the Minimum Wage in Greece?

As of April 1, 2024, Greece's minimum wage is set at €830 per month for full-time employees, which is equivalent to approximately $900 USD, depending on exchange rates. This rate applies uniformly across the country and is determined by the government.

How Does Minimum Wage Apply to Different Workers in Greece?

In Greece, the statutory minimum wage applies to full-time employees in the private sector under a private law employment relationship, without any age or other discrimination.

Full-Time Employee Wages

Full-time employees in Greece are entitled to a minimum monthly wage of €830. This rate is standardized across industries, with no specific variations mandated by law. However, individual or collective agreements may stipulate higher wages based on industry standards or negotiations.

Part-Time Employee Wages

Part-time employees are compensated proportionally to the hours they work relative to a full-time schedule. For instance, if a full-time position requires 40 hours per week, a part-time employee working 20 hours would receive half of the full-time minimum wage, amounting to €415 per month. This ensures that part-time workers receive fair compensation corresponding to their working hours.

Interns and Trainees

The application of minimum wage laws to interns and trainees in Greece depends on the nature of their engagement. If an internship or traineeship is part of an educational program and is unpaid, the minimum wage may not apply. However, if interns or trainees are engaged in work that benefits the employer beyond a purely educational scope, they are generally entitled to the minimum wage. Employers must clearly define the terms of internships and traineeships to ensure compliance with labor laws.

Expats

Expatriates working in Greece are subject to the same labor laws as local employees, including minimum wage regulations. Regardless of nationality, if an expat is employed under a Greek employment contract, they are entitled to at least the statutory minimum wage. Additional considerations, such as work permits and taxation, may apply based on individual circumstances.

Factors Influencing Minimum Wage in Greece

Industry-Specific Variations

While the statutory minimum wage sets a baseline, certain industries may offer higher wages due to market demand, skill requirements, or collective bargaining agreements. For example, sectors experiencing labor shortages or requiring specialized skills might provide compensation above the minimum wage to attract qualified workers.

Economic Conditions

Economic indicators such as inflation and employment rates play a crucial role in shaping minimum wage policies. In response to inflationary pressures, the Greek government has implemented measures to adjust wages and pensions to support households.

Government Policies and Legislation

The Greek government periodically reviews and adjusts the minimum wage to align with economic conditions and social objectives. Recent announcements indicate plans to increase the minimum wage from €830 to €950 by 2027, reflecting a commitment to improving living standards.

Minimum Wage History and Trends in Greece

Greece has seen several adjustments to its minimum wage over the years. In April 2024, the minimum wage was increased to €830 per month. Looking ahead, the government aims to raise the minimum wage to €950 by 2027, indicating a trend towards gradual increases to enhance workers' purchasing power.

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