Following the Decree issued by the Council of Ministers back in 2022, as of 1 January 2023 the National minimum wage is in effect.
Pursuant to the Decree, the starting monthly salary is set to €855 gross for the first six months of employment and increased to €940 gross after a period of six months of continuous employment with the same employer.
Several exemptions apply, as listed hereunder:
- Employees working in sectors such as agriculture, domestic workers and shipping.
- Employees receiving more favorable treatment through contract, custom, practice, or other Decree are also exempt.
- In cases were the employer offers food and/or housing, following an agreement between the two parties (employer and employee), the employer will be able to deduct in cash up to 15% and 10% for food and housing, respectively. It should be highlighted, though, that this is permissible only in case of an agreement between the employer and the employee.
- Also, people receiving training or education to obtain either a degree or a professional qualification are exempt.
- Seasonal workers up to the age of 18, with seasonal work set at the maximum of two months, the minimum wage can be applied with a 25% reduction.
ACS also reminds all employers of their obligation to issue payslips on a monthly or weekly basis.