Νέο εργασιακό πλαίσιο από 16 Φεβρουαρίου: Όλες οι αλλαγές σε ωράρια, υπερωρίες, άδειες και ψηφιακές διαδικασίες

As of February 16, a new labor framework comes into force in Greece, introducing significant changes to working time organization, overtime rules, leave entitlements and digital HR procedures.

The new provisions are part of the recently enacted labor law on digital working time management and are implemented through the upgraded ERGANI II system. The reform aims to reduce administrative burden, increase flexibility, and modernize workforce management for both employers and employees.

For businesses operating in Greece, understanding and correctly implementing these changes is essential to ensure legal compliance, operational efficiency, and accurate payroll processing.

Digital HR transformation and reduced bureaucracy

With the launch of the upgraded system:

Hiring procedures are significantly simplified
Multiple paper forms are eliminated
Employee data is fully digitized
Annual staff tables no longer require manual posting

Indicatively, employee hiring now requires one digital submission instead of four separate forms, substantially reducing administrative workload for HR departments.

Fast-track hiring via mobile application: What to expect

A special provision introducing fast-track hiring via mobile app, designed mainly for emergency staffing needs in sectors such as hospitality, food service and tourism, will not be implemented immediately due to pending software development.

Once available, it will allow:

Fixed-term employment contracts
Engagement for up to two days per week
Rapid staffing coverage for urgent operational needs

Key labor law changes effective from February 16

1. Up to 13 hours of work per day (exceptional basis)

Employees may work up to 13 hours per day with a single employer, under strict conditions:

40% overtime pay premium
Explicit legal protection against dismissal if the employee refuses overtime work δεν αποτελεί λόγο απόλυσης

2. Revised overtime compensation structure

Example:

13 hours across two employers → €104 daily earnings
13 hours with one employer → €119 daily earnings

The new structure promotes transparency and fair compensation for extended working hours.

3. Flexible working time arrangements throughout the year

The new framework allows:

Four-day workweeks on a weekly, monthly or annual basis
Application throughout the entire year, not just a six-month period
Mandatory employee consent for any working time adjustment

This is particularly beneficial for working parents and employees with increased family responsibilities.

4. Overtime rights for rotating (part-time) workers

Employees under rotating or intermittent employment schemes may:

Work beyond their standard daily hours
Receive a 40% overtime premium per additional hour, if they choose

This provision supports income flexibility in sectors with variable demand.

5. Digital voluntary resignation (“one-click” process)

Voluntary employee departures can now be declared digitally:

No mandatory 10-day waiting period
Immediate replacement hiring permitted

This change significantly streamlines workforce transitions.

Sixth-day work: Conditions and compliance requirements

Sixth-day work is permitted only:

For specific categories of businesses
With a maximum of 8 working hours
Without overtime or overwork
With mandatory prior declaration in ERGANI II

In cases of unexpectedly increased workload, declarations are subject to inspection by labor authorities.

Annual leave and the upcoming “split leave” model

Current rules require: Remaining annual leave to be granted by March 31 of the following year
Otherwise, employers must compensate unused leave at 200% pay

The “split leave” entitlement (minimum of 5 days) will be fully implemented in 2026providing employees with greater autonomy in planning their vacation time.

Health and safety obligations: New training requirements

Employers are now required to provide training in:

Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Heimlich maneuver

Training delivery depends on company size and may involve either digital learning material or certified first-aid instructors.

Additionally, workplace policies on:

Violence and harassment prevention
Internal complaint handling

How AFS Can Support You

The new labor framework requires businesses to:

Properly configure payroll and HR systems
Ensure continuous compliance with ERGANI II
Accurately manage working hours, overtime and leave balances

AFS provides integrated Payroll solutions σύγχρονες λύσεις Payrollthat help organizations adapt smoothly to regulatory changes, ensuring accuracy, compliance and operational efficiency.