Greece’s Tourism Industry Struggles with Labor Shortage as Many Albanians Leave the Workforce

 Finding seasonal workers for Greece’s booming summer tourism industry is becoming increasingly difficult. Across the country’s popular islands, signs reading “Staff Wanted” are now a common sight.

Hoteliers nationwide are struggling to hire receptionists, cleaners, pool attendants, porters, waiters, and cooks. According to the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels, the industry is facing a shortage of at least 60,000 workers.

Representatives of the Panhellenic Federation of Food and Tourism Workers describe the situation as unprecedented:

“We are experiencing an unparalleled shortage of skilled and experienced workers, especially in the hotel and restaurant sectors. Many left during the COVID lockdowns, and a large number have never returned to the industry.”

Seasonal Nature and Migration Trends

Industry leaders point to seasonality as one of the main reasons for the shortage. Once tourists leave and beach hotels and bars close, workers are entitled to unemployment benefits for only three months. This lack of year-round stability pushes many to seek seasonal work in Northern Europe, where wages and benefits are often more attractive.

Another factor is demographic change. Many Albanians who have worked in Greece for decades — providing affordable labor in tourism, agriculture, and construction — are now approaching retirement or moving away from Greece. Since the 1990s, the Greek economy has heavily relied on migrant workers, especially from Albania.

From Crisis to Post-Pandemic Boom

During Greece’s financial recovery programs (2010–2018), demand for labor in tourism, agriculture, and construction fell sharply. However, after the pandemic, as the economy rebounded and tourism surged, the need for workers multiplied.

Today, in addition to the 60,000 extra employees needed in tourism, the country also faces shortages of 50,000–60,000 workers in construction and another 60,000 in agriculture.

The labor gap threatens to strain Greece’s ability to maintain the high service standards expected by millions of visitors each summer — unless solutions are found to attract and retain workers in the coming years.