For students studying in Greece, finding a part-time job can be an excellent way to earn extra income, gain valuable work experience, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you’re an international student or a local, there are various opportunities available across different sectors. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best part-time job options for students in Greece, along with tips on how to find and secure these positions.
1. Popular Part-Time Job Sectors for Students
a. Hospitality and Tourism
Greece is one of the world’s top tourist destinations, especially during the summer months. The hospitality industry offers numerous part-time opportunities for students.
- Job Roles:
- Waiter/Waitress
- Bartender
- Hotel Receptionist
- Tour Guide
- Hostel Staff
- Where to Find Jobs:
- Hotels, restaurants, and cafes in popular tourist areas like Athens, Thessaloniki, Crete, and the Greek islands.
- Online platforms such as Indeed Greece , Glassdoor , or Spitogatos Jobs .
- Tips for Success:
- Learn basic Greek phrases to communicate with customers and colleagues.
- Be prepared for seasonal work, as many hospitality jobs are concentrated during peak tourist seasons (May–September).
b. Retail and Sales
Retail jobs are widely available in cities and towns throughout Greece, making them a convenient option for students.
- Job Roles:
- Shop Assistant
- Cashier
- Sales Associate
- Customer Service Representative
- Where to Find Jobs:
- Shopping malls, boutiques, and chain stores in urban centers like Athens, Thessaloniki, and Patras.
- Websites like Kariera.gr and Job Finder Greece .
- Tips for Success:
- Highlight any previous customer service experience on your resume.
- Be flexible with shifts, as retail jobs often require evening or weekend work.
c. Tutoring and Teaching
If you excel in a particular subject or language, tutoring can be a rewarding and well-paying part-time job.
- Job Roles:
- Private Tutor (Math, Science, Languages, etc.)
- English Language Teacher
- Music Instructor
- Where to Find Jobs:
- Local schools, language institutes, and private tutoring agencies.
- Online platforms like Preply , Italki , or TeacherOn for remote teaching opportunities.
- Tips for Success:
- Obtain certifications like TEFL/TESOL if you plan to teach English.
- Advertise your services on social media or expat forums to attract clients.
d. Freelancing and Remote Work
With the rise of digital platforms, freelancing has become a popular choice for students seeking flexible work arrangements.
- Job Roles:
- Content Writer/Blogger
- Graphic Designer
- Virtual Assistant
- Social Media Manager
- Where to Find Jobs:
- Global freelance platforms like Upwork , Fiverr , and Freelancer.com .
- Greek-specific websites such as Freelance.gr .
- Tips for Success:
- Build a strong portfolio showcasing your skills.
- Set realistic rates based on market demand and your level of expertise.
e. Campus Jobs
Many universities in Greece offer part-time employment opportunities specifically for students.
- Job Roles:
- Library Assistant
- Research Assistant
- Administrative Support
- Event Coordinator
- Where to Find Jobs:
- University career centers or job boards.
- Directly inquire with professors or department heads about available positions.
- Tips for Success:
- Leverage your academic strengths when applying for campus roles.
- Prioritize jobs that align with your field of study to enhance your resume.
f. Delivery Services
Food delivery services have grown significantly in Greece, providing flexible earning opportunities for students.
- Job Roles:
- Food Delivery Driver (e.g., e-food, Wolt, Bolt Food)
- Courier for package delivery services
- Where to Find Jobs:
- Sign up directly through apps like e-food , Wolt , or Bolt Food .
- Tips for Success:
- Use your own bike, scooter, or car to maximize flexibility.
- Work during peak hours (lunchtime and evenings) to increase earnings.
2. Legal Considerations for Working in Greece
Before starting a part-time job, it’s important to understand the legal requirements:
a. Work Permits for International Students
- EU/EEA/Swiss students do not need a work permit to work in Greece.
- Non-EU students must apply for a work permit through the Greek Ministry of Labor, which may involve additional paperwork and restrictions.
b. Tax Obligations
- All workers in Greece, including students, must obtain a tax identification number (AFM) .
- Income earned is subject to taxation, though students may qualify for certain exemptions depending on their earnings.
c. Work Hours
- Full-time students are generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during holidays.
3. Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs in Greece
a. Network Locally
- Join student groups, attend university events, and connect with locals to learn about unadvertised job openings.
- Visit businesses in person to inquire about part-time positions.
b. Polish Your Resume
- Tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences.
- Include language proficiencies, as multilingual candidates are highly sought after in Greece.
c. Use Online Job Portals
- Explore Greek job websites such as:
- Kariera.gr
- Job Finder Greece
- Indeed Greece
- Glassdoor Greece
d. Stay Flexible
- Be open to trying different types of jobs to discover what suits you best.
- Adjust your schedule according to exam periods and coursework deadlines.
4. Challenges and How to Overcome Them
a. Language Barrier
- While many employers in tourist-heavy areas speak English, knowing basic Greek can significantly improve your chances of securing a job. Consider taking free online courses or practicing with locals.
b. Seasonal Nature of Work
- Many jobs in tourism and hospitality are seasonal. To mitigate this, look for year-round opportunities in retail, tutoring, or freelancing.
c. Balancing Studies and Work
- Create a structured schedule to manage your time effectively. Prioritize academics while ensuring your job doesn’t interfere with your studies.
