How is payroll managed in Greece?

In Greece, employees are entitled to 13th and 14th month salary payments. This is structured such that the annual salary is divided into 14 equal parts. Employees receive one part each month, with additional payments made as follows: a half-month salary at Easter, another half-month salary as a vacation bonus, and a full month’s salary in December.

What are the standard employment regulations?

A full-time working week in Greece consists of 40 hours. Full-time employees are entitled to a minimum of 20 days of paid leave per year. For the first two years of employment, an additional day of leave is added after each completed year of service. This increases to 25 days after 10 years of service, and 26 days after 25 years. The vacation bonus, equal to half a month’s salary, is included in the 14-month salary calculation and is not an extra cost to the employer.

What should be considered when dismissing an employee?

When dismissing an employee outside of a probation period, employers in Greece must follow a specific process, which includes establishing proper cause and giving appropriate notice. It’s advisable to consult with one of our employment law specialists before proceeding with a dismissal. Severance payments may be required for employees with more than one year of service.