Insurance premiums for self-employed Greeks will increase in 2026: an increase of 4–5%

From 2026 self-employed, freelancers and farmers in Greece they will pay 4-5% more in insurance premiums. The increase is due to a new method of calculation based on wage index.

Increase in insurance premiums for self-employed people postponed, but inevitable

Almost 1.8 million self-employed, freelancers and farmers in Greece will face an increase in insurance premiums by 4–5% from 2026. Initially, the new system was supposed to be operational in 2025, but the launch was delayed due to the lack of a ready-made wage indexwhich will now become the main calculation criterion.

Previously increase in contributions was determined by the level of inflation, but now – by the increase in average wages, which automatically leads to higher amounts. As noted Bank of Greecein 2025 earnings growth will be approximately 5.5%while inflation is only 3%.

Insurance premiums for self-employed Greeks will increase in 2026: an increase of 4–5% pic.twitter.com/QMxz1zdV1N

— Athens News (@russianathens) October 15, 2025

New contribution amounts by category

According to preliminary data, the minimum category in 2026 will be 187–190 euros against the current 180 euros. For self-employed people who also pay contributions for healthcare and additional insurancethe amounts will be as follows:

• 1st category: 254.44 euros (4% increase) or 256.88 euros (5%) instead of the current 244.65;
• 3rd category: from 365.91 to 369.43 euros (instead of 351.84);
• 6th category: from 685.77 to 692.36 euros (instead of 659.39).

Pensions – growth is slow and not for everyone

The Labor Department says higher contributions will provide larger pensions in the future. However, calculations show that after 40 years of insurance experience when paying in the first category monthly pension will not exceed 860 euros.

Selecting higher categories changes the picture: 3rd category (351.8 euros) gives a pension of over 1,085 euros, and 6th category (659 euros) – approx. 1.850 euros. However, the vast majority of Greeks remain in the first category, choosing to pay less despite low future returns.

A year to prepare – and new disputes ahead

The reform has been postponed for a year, but discussions have already begun. Economists point out that the new system will again widen the gap between the incomes of employees and the self-employed, many of whom are already experiencing difficulties with payments. The government promises that the increase is “temporary and fair.”

Meanwhile, freelancers’ unions warn that if the economy does not recover, the next increase will be the last straw for small businesses and the rural sector.

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