The reforms also include a new Specialized Technical Personnel visa and changes to work permit rules, allowing greater flexibility for foreign nationals working or seeking jobs in Greece.
Also read: Swiss government rejects proposal to limit immigration
Tech, talent visas launched
The Tech Visa will be available to foreign nationals employed by registered tech start-ups in Greece and will provide immediate work authoris ation. However, holders cannot change employers and will lose their immigration status if their job ends.
The Talent Visa will allow foreign nationals with at least a Master’s degree to enter Greece to search for employment. It does not grant work rights, but applicants can transition to a work and residence permit after securing a job.
Both visas will be valid for 12 months and can be converted to an EU Blue Card if eligibility conditions are met.
EU Blue Card rules relaxed
Greece has extended the validity of the EU Blue Card to three years from two years. Applicants can now submit renewal applications up to three months after expiry, compared to one month earlier.
Also read: EU lawmakers back ‘return hubs’ for migrants
New visa, work permit changes
The new Specialized Technical Personnel visa will allow foreign nationals to transfer from a company in another country to a Greek company for major projects for up to 12 months. The project value must exceed €10 million, and the visa can also be converted to an EU Blue Card if requirements are met.
Other changes include reducing the minimum work contract requirement for standard permits to six months from one year. Foreign nationals who lose their jobs can now stay in Greece for up to three months, or six months if they have lived in the country for two years.
The reforms also allow certain permit holders to change the purpose of their stay without leaving Greece. According to Fragomen, Z Visa holders can now apply for a residence permit without exiting the country.