Under the current Greek Immigration Code (Law 5038/2023), which implements EU Directive 2014/36/EU on Seasonal Workers,
third-country nationals who enter Greece legally for seasonal employment have specific rights and obligations.
As of 2026, the legal framework remains based on Law 5038/2023, with administrative updates improving digital procedures
and employer approval processes.
Can a Seasonal Worker Change Employer in Greece?
Yes – but prior approval is required.
A seasonal worker holding:
- A valid Seasonal Work Residence Permit (Type E.6), or
- A valid National Visa for Seasonal Work (up to 9 months per year)
May:
- Request to change employer within Greece
- Remain in Greece during the approval process
- Continue working legally after official approval
However, the worker cannot start working for the new employer until the competent migration authority formally approves the change.
Important Condition – Approval Before Starting Work
The employer change process requires:
- A new signed seasonal employment contract.
- Submission of the contract to the competent migration authority (One-Stop Service).
- Formal approval by the authorities.
- Work with the new employer only after approval is granted.
Working for a new employer without official approval may be considered irregular employment under Greek law.
Permit Duration and Validity (2026)
- Seasonal work permits are valid for up to 9 months per calendar year.
- The permit is issued based on a specific employment contract.
- Employer change is possible during the validity period with administrative approval.
- No need to leave Greece if the permit remains valid.
Are Seasonal Workers Locked to One Employer?
No. Greek law does not permanently bind a seasonal worker to the first employer for the entire season.
However, any employer change must follow the official approval procedure.
Rights of Seasonal Workers in Greece
- Equal treatment with Greek workers in working conditions
- Right to lawful employer change (with approval)
- Protection from exploitation
- Right to clear employment information
- Access to legal remedies in case of disputes
Why This Rule Exists
The employer-change mechanism aims to:
- Prevent worker exploitation
- Ensure employment continuity during the season
- Support real labor market needs
- Align Greece with EU labor standards
Legal Basis
- Greek Immigration Code – Law 5038/2023
- Articles 63–65 (Seasonal Employment Provisions)
- EU Directive 2014/36/EU on Seasonal Workers
Conclusion (2026)
As of 2026, seasonal workers in Greece may change employer during the validity of their seasonal work permit,
provided that the new employment contract is approved by the competent migration authority before starting work.
Any claim that seasonal workers are automatically “locked” to one employer for the entire visa period
is not consistent with the current legal framework.
Source: Greek Immigration Code (Law 5038/2023) and EU Directive 2014/36/EU.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
For official guidance, consult the Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum or a qualified legal professional.
