From April 1 – new minimum wage: increase scenarios and decision deadlines

A dialogue on a new increase in the minimum wage will begin in Greece soonand a final decision is expected no later than mid-March for the new rate to take effect from April 1, 2026.

The procedure will begin with consultations between Ministry of Labor and social partners who will present their proposals and assessments. After the completion of the dialogue, a final conclusion will be prepared, on the basis of which the Minister of Labor will submit a proposal for consideration by the Cabinet of Ministers.

Uniform application in public and private sectors

The new minimum wage will apply the same in both the private and public sectors. In the public sector, the increase will affect base salaries of all salary scales and categories of personnel – from workers without special education to university graduates.

Promotion scenarios

According to current estimates, the direction of the increase is largely predetermined. To achieve the government goal of 950 euros by spring 2027 About 70 euros are missing.

One of the scenarios involves an increase by 35 euros in April 2026 and more on 35 euros in April 2027which will increase the minimum wage from the current 880 euros first up 915 eurosand then to 950 euros.

A more aggressive option is also being considered – growth by 40–50 euros already from April 2026. In this case, the minimum wage can reach 930 eurosand after the second increase in 2027 – exceed 950 eurosapproaching the level 970–980 euros.

Tax breaks

The minimum wage debate is directly related to tax benefitseffective from January 1, 2026. Reducing monthly tax withholdings for workers and retirees will further increase net income.

It is estimated that the greatest benefit will accrue to approximately 270 thousand young workers under 30 years of agereceiving the minimum wage. Upon income up to 20,000 euros per year workers under 25 years of age are exempt from income tax, and for the age group 26–30 years old, tax withholdings are significantly reduced.

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