Labour inspections have intensified across Greece during the summer months, with the Independent Authority for Labour Inspection reporting €25.6 million in administrative fines imposed during the first half of 2026. The authority has ramped up its oversight activities—particularly in workplaces operating through the peak seasonal period—focusing on compliance with working hours, combating undeclared employment, enforcing the Digital Employment Card, and safeguarding workers’ health and safety using modern digital tools.
A Rising Trend in Enforcement
The number of inspections has shown steady growth over recent years: 65,286 in 2022; 74,031 in 2023; 79,290 in 2024; and 82,233 in 2025. This upward trajectory continues into 2026. Between January and June of this year, inspectors carried out 41,486 checks nationwide, issuing 8,690 sanctions and levying total fines amounting to €25,572,413.
Breakdown by Inspectorate
Of these inspections:
- Labour Relations Inspectors conducted 23,636 checks, resulting in 6,227 sanctions and fines totalling €21,324,160.
- Health and Safety Inspectors carried out 14,434 inspections, leading to 2,067 sanctions and fines of €2,690,584.
- Specialised Inspectors performed 3,416 checks, imposing 396 sanctions and fines worth €1,557,669.
Prioritisation Strategy
According to the Labour Inspection’s operational plan, priority is given to:
- Enterprises and sectors identified as high-risk for non-compliance—especially those not inspected in the past three years or previously found in violation, based on risk analysis;
- Seasonally operating businesses;
- Sectors employing seconded workers or third-country nationals;
- The delivery and transport services sector—including motorcycle couriers—as well as wholesale trade (excluding motor vehicle and motorcycle retail);
- Geographic areas and economic sectors where child labour is suspected or where exploitation risks are elevated, including large-scale construction projects.
This targeted approach reflects a broader effort to strengthen labour rights enforcement, improve workplace standards, and ensure fair competition across the Greek economy.