Law 5275/2026 – Greece’s implementation of EU Migration Reform

Greece’s Law 5275/2026, published on 6 February 2026, constitutes one of the most substantial reforms of the national migration legislation in recent years.

The law implements Directive (EU) 2024/1233, which establishes a unified application procedure for a combined residence and work permit, while also ensuring a common set of rights for legally residing third‑country workers across the European Union.

1. Introduction of the Single Permit Procedure

A core feature of the new law is the introduction of a unified procedure for obtaining both residence and work authorization. This aims to simplify administrative processes, reduce processing complexity and bureaucratic delays, and harmonize Greek procedures with EU standards. As a result, third‑country nationals can now navigate a more predictable and efficient pathway to lawful employment in Greece.

2. Expanded Rights and Equal Treatment

Article 3 of Law 5275/2026 establishes the principle of equal treatment between third-country nationals and Greek nationals (“common set of rights”). This includes equal access to working conditions and employment protections, access to social security, and recognition of qualifications. This provision enhances transparency and promotes fair and transparent employment relationships within the Greek labor market.

3. Revised Residence Permit Procedures

Art. 12 of Law 5275/2026 introduces important updates to residence permit procedures, including:

• Renewal applications may now be submitted up to 2 months before expiry;
• A 3‑month grace period is granted for late renewals, subject to monthly penalties;
• Applications are distributed via automated workload allocation across regional authorities.

4. Enhanced Pathways for Skilled Migration

In alignment with the directive’s goals, Greece strengthens its framework for attracting and retaining skilled professionals through Art. 12, 18 and 19 of Law 5275/2026.

The reform introduces new categories of residence permits designed to accommodate a wider range of migration pathways, including flexible employment schemes, post-study residence options, and sector-specific labor needs.

• The EU Blue Card validity period is extended from 2 to 3 years, providing greater stability for both employers and highly skilled workers.
• Graduates and researchers are now permitted to remain in Greece for up to 12 months following the completion of their studies or research to seek employment or establish a business.

5. A More Flexible Labor Admission System

Law 5275/2026 also introduces greater flexibility in workforce recruitment:

• Annual employment quotas for third-country nationals may be increased by up to 15% in response to urgent unforeseen labor shortages.
• Licensed Temporary Employment Agencies with sufficient capital may act as direct employers, aligning with broader EU mobility standards.

These provisions are particularly relevant for industries with seasonal or structural labor gaps, such as tourism, construction, and agriculture.

Key Takeaways for Businesses and Individuals

Law 5275/2026 represents a decisive shift toward a more efficient, transparent, and EU-aligned migration system in Greece. While Law 5275/2026 simplifies procedures and expands opportunities, it also introduces new compliance considerations.

From a migration law perspective, it is advisable to ensure that applications are thoroughly prepared and submitted in a timely manner, to avoid delays or penalties. Businesses should adopt structured internal processes for hiring third-country nationals and monitor regulatory developments, particularly regarding employment quotas and administrative practices.

Ongoing legal guidance can also be valuable in navigating the evolving framework, especially for organizations employing international staff or individuals seeking long-term residence in Greece.