Greece approves more work permits for non-EU nationals
The number of approved applications increased by 19,661, or about 44%, compared with the same period in 2025.
The approvals primarily concern seasonal employment in agriculture and other sectors facing shortages of seasonal workers, the ministry said.
Officials stressed that the increase reflects legal migration and is linked to the needs of the Greek economy.
Faster processing
The ministry also reported improvements in the processing of residence permits under legislation introduced to streamline the system.
The backlog of pending applications fell by 46.85%, according to ministry sources.
The increase in approvals has also been attributed to regulations adopted in February 2026 and improved implementation of bilateral agreements between Greece and third countries.
Stricter rules on irregular migration
The expansion of legal migration channels is taking place alongside Greece’s policy of tighter management of irregular migration, ministry sources said.
Under legislation in force since September 2025, migrants can no longer obtain legal status solely on the basis of completing seven years of residence in Greece.
The government says the work-permit system is being used to address documented labor needs while maintaining stricter controls on irregular migration.
Source:AMNA
