Greek Hoteliers Address Digital Work Card Implementation at Philoxenia Expo

Photo source: Labor Ministry

Greece’s Digital Work Card is expected to be fully implemented in the tourism sector by March 2025, Greek Minister of Labour and Social Insurance Niki Kerameus said on Thursday.

Established under Greece’s Labor Protection Law (Law 4808/2021), this initiative aims to promote transparency and improve the efficient management of working hours. Currently, the tourism sector is piloting the program, allowing time for any adjustments before full implementation.

At an event held during the Philoxenia Hotelia expo in Thessaloniki, organized by the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE), Minister Kerameus highlighted that the months leading up to March 2025 provide valuable opportunities to refine the program based on feedback.

“The digital work card was developed to record actual working hours, ensuring employees are compensated accordingly while safeguarding healthy competition,” said Kerameus, adding that the Labor Inspectorate will oversee its enforcement.

Currently, the Digital Work Card system is being successfully implemented in the industrial and retail sectors. However, Kerameus acknowledged room for further improvements before its universal application in March.

Concerns raised by hoteliers

Representing Greece’s hotel industry, Hellenic Hoteliers Federation President Yannis Hatzis noted some challenges in the pilot program, which began mid-September and did not provide seasonal businesses, which typically close in the fall, with a full opportunity to test the system.

Hatzis mentioned specific issues, including tracking employee preparation times during arrivals and departures, which the federation is working with the labor ministry to address.

On his part, General Secretary of Labor Relations Nikos Milapidis said that the card will not alter contract durations or types. He underlined that effective adoption of the digital work card will reduce undeclared work and support fair competition by providing reliable tracking of overtime.

Also speaking at the event, the head of the Labor Inspectorate, Giorgos Tzilivakis, said the card represents “a revolutionary step forward” for Greece’s labor market and society.

The phased rollout of the Digital Work Card began in 2023 with select business categories. By 2025, all Greek businesses will be required to adopt this system, advancing Greece’s commitment to a more transparent and equitable labor market.