Greece is grappling with acute labour shortages ahead of the summer tourism season, particularly in hospitality and food services, with industry officials warning the shortfall is worsening.
“This year is more difficult than last,” said Yiannis Hatzis, president of the Hellenic Hoteliers Federation. Popular destinations such as Santorini, Crete and Rhodes are struggling to fill vacancies, while several small hotels in northern Greece remained shut over Easter due to a lack of staff.
The use of undeclared workers in the restaurant sector is compounding the problem. “I can’t compete with tavernas paying under the table,” said Lena Papia, a hotelier in Peraia, who said she needs 15 waiters but has hired only 10.
Many businesses depend on foreign workers from countries such as India and the Philippines, but employers report delays in permits and limited training. “It’s hard to find a good waiter. I’m understaffed and relying more on unskilled workers,” said Marina Kokotos of Elounda Mare Hotel.
In neighbouring Montenegro, authorities estimate 20,000 seasonal workers are needed this year along the Adriatic coast. Employers and officials are urging local residents to fill the gap, though unions say low pay and poor working conditions are driving people away.
Croatia expects an even steeper shortfall, with the tourism sector needing between 30,000 and 35,000 workers this summer, according to government estimates.
Amid regional shortages, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama arrived in Athens on Saturday ahead of a job fair targeting the Albanian diaspora. In a Facebook video, Rama called on emigrants to return home, promising jobs with “reasonable wages and low taxes.”
“For the first time, Albania is knocking on the door of its emigrants in Greece,” Rama said. “Come back – we have work for you.”
He urged participants to speak directly with employers at the fair and review available job contracts. “Then decide calmly what is best for you,” he said.