Migration reforms to target labor needs

Greece is planning a comprehensive overhaul of its residence permit system for migrant workers to address an impending labor shortage. According to government figures, the country will need 200,000 additional workers within five years to achieve a 2% economic growth rate.

While officials stress that boosting labor force participation among inactive groups and encouraging expatriates to return are essential steps, migrants will play a key role in filling critical gaps. By 2050, the Greek working-age population is projected to decline by 27%, while retirees will increase by 20%.

A central part of the government's plan includes automating permit issuance to reduce human intervention and processing times. Permit validity would be extended from three to five years, both for existing and new applications, aiming to cut the administrative burden.

Ministry officials...