Quick Guide: Working in Ios Greece
Best time to apply: December – March (Harmony starts advertising for roles in early Dec – we will post on our instagram early Nov)
Typical working season: April/May – September/October
Most common industries: Hospitality, restaurants, bars, hotels, clubs
Popular jobs: Waiters, bartenders, kitchen staff, hosts, reception staff, promoters
Main requirements: Passport, work eligibility, employment paperwork, Greek tax number (AFM), Greek bank account and medical clearance (Workplace will guide you through the process)
Popular areas for seasonal workers: Mylopotas Beach and Ios Chora
How do you apply?: Many of the businesses in Ios will advertise on their social media pages
Highly recommend finding and following all the local bars, restaurants and clubs on social media and keep an eye out around Nov-Jan and start sending out message and your resume.
How to Work in Greece: What You Need to Know
Before you start looking for summer jobs in Ios, it’s important to understand what you need to legally work in Greece.
Your requirements depend on your nationality, passport and visa eligibility.
EU, EEA and Swiss Citizens
If you hold an EU, EEA or Swiss passport, working in Greece is generally more straightforward. You can usually work without applying for a separate work visa, although you may still need to complete local employment paperwork once hired.
Non-EU Citizens
If you are from outside the EU, including countries such as Australia, Canada, the United States or the United Kingdom, you may need the correct visa or work authorisation before starting employment.
Always check the latest requirements with the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your country before making travel plans.
Visa and immigration requirements can change, so it’s important to confirm the current process before accepting a seasonal job.
What Documents Do You Need to Work in Greece?
Once you have secured a seasonal job, there are several important documents and steps you’ll need to complete before officially starting work.
Greek Tax Number (AFM)
To work legally in Greece, employees need a Greek tax number, known as an AFM (Αριθμός Φορολογικού Μητρώου).
Your AFM is used for employment and official paperwork in Greece.
To apply, you may need:
- Passport
- Passport photos
- Birth certificate
- Visa or residency documents (if applicable)
Having these documents prepared before arriving can make the process much easier.
At Harmony we help guide you through the process and the admin to legally work here in Ios Greece, when you arrive.
Greek Bank Account
Seasonal employees in Greece generally need a Greek bank account for employment payments.
If you are hired by Harmony, assistance can be provided with arranging the necessary steps once you arrive.
Medical Clearance and Health Certificate
Hospitality workers in Greece need medical clearance and a health certificate before beginning employment.
For Harmony employees, medical tests are completed in either Athens or Santorini before travelling to Ios.
If you are hired, the manager will help guide you through the process and arrange what is needed.
When planning your travel route, keep this in mind. Many seasonal workers choose to include an extra night in Athens or Santorini before arriving in Ios so they can complete their medical requirements (These only have to be done once every 5 years)
How to Find Summer Jobs in Ios Greece
Finding a job in Ios is often easier than people expect, especially if you start early.
Most seasonal businesses begin preparing their teams months before the island gets busy.
Apply Early
Many restaurants, bars, hotels and venues begin hiring from December through to March and will advertise on their social media pages and through their network of seasonal staff.
We highly recommend you research venues and follow them on social media to make sure you dont miss out when applications open.
Applying early gives you the best chance of securing:
- your preferred role
- staff accommodation
- your ideal start date
- a position before flights become expensive
Apply in person
Not guaranteed but it is easier and more common in Ios then you might think!
Many of the staff in Ios are people whom came here for a holiday, asked around and ended up staying.
The businesses here encourage you to come to the venue and chat to the managers and owners when you arrive.
If your open to different hospitality roles, there is a high chance of securing some work ( and accomodation as many roles include affordable staff accomodation).
Like anywhere, there are staff coming and going, things change last minute and its very dependant on how busy the season is as well.
Seasonal Job Groups
Facebook groups and online communities can also be useful for finding:
- Ios island jobs
- Greek island seasonal work
- Hospitality jobs in Greece
- Summer jobs abroad
Always confirm job details directly with the employer before making commitments.
What Jobs Are Available in Ios?
Most seasonal work in Ios is connected to tourism and hospitality.
Common roles include:
- Waiters and food runners
- Bartenders
- Bar Crawl Staff
- Bar/club Promoters
- Baristas
- Kitchen staff
- Hosts
- Hotel staff
- Reception roles
- Social media and content roles
Previous experience is helpful, but many employers also value personality, reliability, teamwork and a willingness to learn.
Island hospitality is fast-paced, so being adaptable and positive is just as important as your CV.
What Is Staff Accommodation Like in Ios?
Many seasonal employers provide or assist with staff accommodation.
Accommodation is usually practical rather than luxurious and may include:
- Shared bedrooms
- Shared apartments
- Basic kitchens
- Simple furnishings
- Other seasonal workers living nearby
Think of it as part of the island experience — a social staff network, shared lifestyle with people from all over the world.
Before accepting a job, ask:
- Is accommodation included?
- How many people share a room?
- Are bills included?
- How far is it from work?
- Is transport available?
Even with accommodation provided, it’s recommended to arrive with savings for food, transport and personal expenses.
What Is It Like Working in Ios Greece?
Working a summer season in Ios is a unique experience.
The reality is that hospitality work can be busy. During peak season, shifts can be long, late and the island is full of visitors and the pace is fast.
However, the rewards are unlike many other jobs.
On your days off, you can:
- Swim in crystal-clear Greek waters
- Explore beaches and villages
- Watch incredible sunsets
- Visit nearby Cycladic islands
- Meet travellers from around the world
- Become part of a seasonal community – Creating connections and building friendships with people from all parts of the world.
Many people arrive for one summer and return year after year because of the friendships and memories they create.
Peak Season vs Shoulder Season in Ios
May and September
The shoulder season offers:
- Cooler but calmer days
- Fewer crowds
- More relaxed island life
- More time to explore
- less busy, maybe less hours or no work until the venue opens (Every venue opens at different times from May – June)
June to August
Peak season brings:
- Busy restaurants and venues
- Vibrant nightlife
- International travellers
- A fast-paced working environment
- Hot days / Longer days
- More work/shifts
Most seasonal workers arrive in spring and stay until the island slows down in autumn.
Why Work at Harmony Ios?
Harmony is a restaurant, bar and event venue overlooking Mylopotas Beach. We are open from 10am until Late. Some night finishing at 12am and other nights we dont leave until 3am.
We have Mondays off! – Except for our monthly White parties on the 1st Monday of the month (You can check it out on our instagram/tiktok). This gives us all a break, a rest and a chance to explore and enjoy Ios or even surrounding Islands on our staff days.
Staff days range from nights out to boat days. Fun opportunities to explore what the island has to offer with your team – And get to know the team in a way you didn’t expect.
We love a life of balance! As much as we love a night out, we also run yoga classes 2x a week at Harmony!
And theres so much more to the Harmony experience for staff that words can’t describe, however it leaves an imprint on everyone that comes through and has staff returning year after year.
Every summer, Harmony welcomes guests from around the world for food, drinks, events and memorable Greek island experiences.
Working at Harmony means becoming part of an international team in one of the most beautiful locations in Ios.
Seasonal positions vary each year and include hospitality and guest-focused roles.
If you’re interested in joining the Harmony team, keep an eye on our social media around late Nov – Early Dec when applications are open. We recommend applying when applications open and these will be reviewed early Jan. Successful applicants will be invited for a video interview.
Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Ios Greece
How much do I need to save for a working holiday in Greece?
Working in Greece offers very affordable travel and holiday lifestyle with many employers organising affordable accomodation or free accomodation, staff day activities, discounted and free meals and drinks – However you will need to come with some money to ensure you have enough for daily food, drinks, travel & transport and other fun activities. Not forgetting to check the exchange rate like AUD to EU.
Hiring a quad bike for transport for only 2 months can can cost €500-1000 depending on the time, duration and location you hire (Reach out to local hire companies a few days our from when you arrive and book in advance for best offers).
Depending on the job and the Island, at Harmony Ios, we suggest minimum of $1000 per month you’ll be here.
If you are someone who doesn’t want to live on a tight budget and plans to do additional activities, travel, and wants to experience all the food, drink and the best of the Island, then we recommend having more savings for working in Ios, Greece.
Can foreigners work in Ios Greece?
Yes, many international workers spend their summers working in Ios. Your ability to work legally depends on your nationality and visa requirements.
How do I get a job in Ios Greece?
Most seasonal jobs are found by contacting businesses directly when businesses are hiring (From Dec) applying through social media channels, seasonal job groups, through referrals and. network of people who have worked there before or coming to Ios and walking in to businesses and introducing yourself (Best time to do this is when most businesses have just opened around the start of June)
When should I apply for summer jobs in Ios?
Most businesses begin hiring between December and March, although some positions become available closer to summer and things are always changing with staff so last minute roles can always become available.
What jobs are available in Ios Greece?
The most common seasonal jobs are hospitality roles including restaurants, bars, hotels, beach venues and tourism businesses.
Do I need a Greek tax number to work in Ios?
Yes, employees need an AFM (Greek tax number) to complete official employment paperwork.
Do I need medical tests to work in Greece?
Hospitality employees need medical clearance and a health certificate before starting work. Harmony employees complete these requirements in Athens or Santorini before arriving in Ios.
Does Harmony provide seasonal jobs?
Harmony hires seasonal staff depending on yearly needs. Interested applicants can contact Harmony directly In Nov when applications are about to open for upcoming opportunities or send your CV to job@harmonyios.com.au
Final Thoughts
Working in Ios Greece does mean hot days and late nights and hosipitality / bar experience is highly regarded! But there is an abundance of opportunity here if yoru willing to explore it.
Working in Ios is about much more than finding a summer job.
It’s about experiencing a completely different lifestyle, meeting people from around the world and becoming part of the unique community that makes Greek island seasons so special.
With the right preparation, paperwork and mindset, a summer working in Ios can become one of the most unforgettable experiences of your life.