Greece is entering a new chapter in its employment framework, with reforms rolling out from October through December 2025 that aim to modernise work culture, improve protections, and streamline processes. These changes, introduced under the “Fair Work for All” legislative package, reflect the government’s push to balance flexibility with fairness.
Working Hours and the Controversial 13-Hour Day
One of the most talked-about updates is the option for employees to work up to 13 hours per day, according to the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs this will only be with their explicit consent and applies only to the private sector. This extended schedule is capped at 37.5 days per year, ensuring it remains an exception rather than the norm. Importantly, workers cannot be dismissed for refusing overtime, and any extra hours must be compensated with a 40% pay increase.
Employers must report this overtime via the Digital Work Card System; failure will lead to a penalty of an increased 120% wage compensation. This aligns with broader EU standards and is designed to offer more earning potential without compromising rest periods. The law reinforces employee rights by prohibiting dismissals for refusing overtime and by maintaining the mandatory 11-hour daily rest period. The Ministry of Labour has emphasised that these reforms are designed to strengthen protections, not weaken them.
Leave and Scheduling: Designed for Real Life
The law also introduces more flexibility in annual leave, allowing employees to split their time off into up to four separate periods. This is a welcome change for families, caregivers, and anyone juggling multiple responsibilities. Additionally, the four-day work week—previously limited to six months—is now available year-round, giving workers the option to work 10-hour days across four days instead of five. These updates reflect a growing recognition that work-life balance is not a luxury—it is a necessity.
For mothers and foster mothers who have worked for multiple employers are eligible for maternity benefits., provided they have accumulated two hundred insurance stamps. Additionally, parental leave allowances are now tax-free, non-transferable, and protected from seizure, offering greater financial security to families.
Simplified Hiring and Digital Integration
Employers benefit from fast-tracks hiring for short-term contracts (up to two days) and a significant reduction in paperwork, thanks to the integration with the ERGANI II digital system. A new app, myErgani, allows employers and employees to manage work data more efficiently, including digital job cards and overtime tracking.
Health and Safety Gets a Boost
For large-scale technical projects, the appointment of a health and safety coordinator is now mandatory. This aims to reduce workplace accidents and ensure compliance with safety standards. Additionally, first aid training (including CPR and Heimlich manoeuvre) is being promoted across industries.
Digital Work Cards and Wage Protection
The Digital Work Card system is being expanded, and any attempt to reduce wages following its implementation is now explicitly prohibited. This ensures that digital tracking of hours does not lead to unfair deductions or wage manipulation.
Leap29 Perspective
“There is something refreshing about seeing a policy that tries to meet people where they are. Greece’s new labour reforms feel like a shift toward recognising the realities of modern work. The 13-hour day is understandably controversial, but it is optional, capped, and comes with clear protections. What I find more impactful are the changes that support everyday life—more flexible leave, a year-round four-day workweek, and stronger parental benefits. These updates show a growing awareness that work-life balance isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a real need. The digital upgrades and safety measures are also a step forward in making workplaces more transparent and secure. It’s not perfect, but it’s progress—and it’s good to see that fairness and flexibility are being taken seriously.” Simon Duff Director Leap29
