Greece•EuropeH.11 — Post-Study Work Permit (Άδεια Αναζήτησης Εργασίας Μετά τις Σπουδές - H.11)
At a Glance
2–4 months
EUR €166
1 year
Not renewable
Renewal
Not renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required
Overview
One-year residence permit for graduates and researchers who completed studies in Greece to seek employment or pursue entrepreneurship.
The Post-Study Work Permit (H.11) is a one-year residence permit designed to allow international graduates and researchers to remain in Greece after completing their studies or research projects. This permit provides a vital transition period, enabling individuals to search for employment or establish a business that aligns with the level of education or research they have completed. By allowing this stay, Greece aims to retain highly qualified talent and integrate them into the national labor market or entrepreneurial ecosystem, fostering innovation and economic growth.
To qualify, applicants must have been legal residents under a student or research permit and must provide proof of their academic or research achievements. The permit is granted for a single year, during which the individual is expected to actively seek opportunities that match their qualifications. After a period of three months, holders may be required to demonstrate that they have a realistic prospect of employment or business creation. This permit is a significant step for international students, offering them the legal security to navigate the Greek job market and leverage their newly acquired expertise within the country.
Cost Breakdown
Stay & Extensions
| Initial grant | 1 year |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
GreeceE.4 — Standard Employment Residence Permit (Άδεια Διαμονής Εξαρτημένης Εργασίας - E.4)
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Must hold a higher education degree from a Greek institution.
Must have held a valid student residence permit (H.1) or research permit (H.3) prior to application.
Application must be submitted at least 30 days before the expiry of the current student/research permit.
Proof of health insurance coverage.
Proof of sufficient financial resources.
Payment of administrative fees (166 EUR).
KEY CRITERIA
Education
bachelor or higher
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Higher education degree or certificate of completion of research activity.
Proof of full health insurance coverage.
Evidence of sufficient financial resources.
Solemn declaration stating the intent to look for work or start a business.
Details of residence address in Greece.
Proof of fulfillment of tax obligations (if applicable).
Electronic fee (e-paravolo) payment receipt.
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Allows graduates to remain in Greece legally for one year to seek employment or start a business.
- Provides a bridge between academic life and the professional labor market.
- Facilitates the transition to a long-term work-based residence permit.
Worth Knowing
- Valid for only one year and is non-renewable under the same category.
- Must prove active job searching or business development after 3 months.
- The job or business must correspond to the level of studies completed.
Application Process
Submit the application for the H.11 permit at least 30 days before the current student permit expires.
Provide the higher education degree or certificate of research completion.
Submit proof of financial resources and health insurance.
After 3 months, be prepared to demonstrate a real possibility of employment or business setup corresponding to the level of studies.
Receive the one-year residence permit for job searching or entrepreneurship.
Related visas
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