zz Working in Greece : A practical Guide for Foreign Researchers

Transcription

zz
European Network of Mobility Centres
Working in Greece :
A practical Guide for Foreign Researchers
Author :
Science & Technology Park of Crete (STEP-C)
Science and Technology Park of Crete (STEP-C)
Vassilika Vouton, P.O. Box 1447, 71110 Heraklion - Crete, Greece
URL: www.stepc.gr, E-mail: [email protected]
This Guide has been prepared by Science and Technology Park of Crete (STEP-C) in 2005,
as part of the ERA-MORE Project “PYTHEAS”, funded by the European Commission.
The views in this Guide do not necessarily reflect the views of STEP-C.
Prepared by:
Artemis Saitakis
George Papamichail
©2005, Greek Mobility Centres Network/Foundation for Research and Technology Hellas - FORTH
TABLE
OF
CONTENTS
Introduction
7
SECTION 1 Greece at a glance
8
8
8
9
9
10
10
10
11
1.1 Introduction
- Geography
- Population
- Currency
- Religion Affiliations
- Languages and national flag
- Weather and Climate conditions
- Time zone
SECTION 2 Political, Economic, Educational and Cultural Environment: A short
overview
2.1 Introduction
2.2 Political system
2.2.1 The Greek Constitution
2.3 Economic system
2.3.1 Ministry of Economy and Finance
2.3.2 The Greek Economic Policy 2003-2006
2.4 Education system
2.4.1 Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs
2.4.2 The Greek Education System
2.4.3 Foreign Schools in Greece
2.4.4 Scholarships and Educational Exchanges
2.4.5 Learning Greek
2.5 Culture
2.5.1 Ministry of Culture
2.5.2 Museums
2.5.3 Theatre-Cinemas
2.5.4 Recreation and Sports
2.5.5 Cultural events-festivals / Bank Holidays
2.5.6 Tourism
SECTION 3 Getting to Greece
12
12
12
12
13
13
13
14
14
14
15
16
16
18
18
18
19
19
19
20
21
21
21
28
28
28
3.1 Introduction
3.2 By Air
3.3 By Sea
3.4 By Rail
3.5 Automobile
SECTION 4 Entering Greece
4.1 Introduction
4.2 Entry and stay for European Union researchers
4.3 Entry and stay for non European Union researchers
4.3.1 Entry and Exit Requirements for non European Union researchers
2
29
29
29
30
30
SECTION 5 Science & Technology and Research & Development in Greece
5.1 Introduction to Science and Technology Policy in Greece
5.2 Greek Legislation
5.3 Intellectual Property Rights
5.4 R&D in Greece
5.4.1 The Greek R&D System
5.4.2 R&D Map of Greece
5.4.3 Science and Technology Indicators for Greece
5.5 Priorities and objectives of the Greek R&D Innovation Policy
5.6 Women and Science
5.6.1 The Greek Association of Women Engineers
5.6.2 Research Centre for Gender Equality
5.7 The Greek Public Research System
5.7.1 Research centres
5.7.1.1 Research Bodies supervised by GSRT
5.7.1.2 Technological Bodies supervised by GSRT
5.7.2 Educational institutions
5.7.2.1Universities
5.7.2.2 Technological Educational Institutes
5.8 Innovation Relay Centres
5.9 Science and Technology Parks
5.10 Scholarships and Funding in Greece
SECTION 6 Employment in Greece
6.1 Introduction
6.2 National Action Plan for Employment 2004
6.3 The Labour Market in Greece
6.3.1 Labour Regulations
- Getting a Professional License
- Institute of Labour-Greek General Confederation of Labour
- Immigration Guide on Work Rights
6.3.2 Finding work in Greece
6.3.2.1 Greek Manpower Employment Organisation
6.3.2.2 Recruitment Offices
SECTION 7 The Tax System in Greece
7.1 Introduction to the Greek Tax System
7.1.1.1 General Secretariat for Information Systems
7.1.1.2 TAXIS net (in Greek only)
7.2 Personal Income Tax
7.3 Legal Persons Taxation
7.4 Business Taxation
7.5 Tax exemptions
SECTION 8 The Health System in Greece
8.1 Introduction to the National Health System
8.2 Medical Treatment Options
8.2.1 Emergencies
8.2.2 Medication
8.2.3 Hospitals and Clinics
8.2.3.1 Public Hospitals and Clinics
8.2.3.2 Private Hospitals and Clinics
3
31
31
31
31
32
32
34
35
36
38
38
38
39
40
41
42
43
43
48
51
52
53
55
55
55
55
56
56
56
56
56
56
56
57
57
57
57
57
57
57
58
58
59
59
59
59
59
60
60
60
8.2.4 Doctors
8.2.5 Dentists
8.3 Health Insurance
8.3.1 Public Insurance
8.3.2 Private Insurance
8.4 People with Special Needs – Disabilities
60
60
60
60
60
60
8.4.1 How to obtain a disability certificate
8.4.2 How to obtain financial assistance for severe intellectual Disability
SECTION 9 Social Safety and Legal Assistance
9.1 Introduction to the Greek Social Security System
9.2 Personal Security
9.2.1 Hellenic Ministry of Labour and Social Security
9.2.2 General Secretariat of Social Security
9.3 Social Security Organisations
9.4 Human Rights and Foreign Citizens
9.4.1 Ministry of Foreign Affairs
9.4.2 Embassies and Consulates in Greece
SECTION 10 Accommodation
10.1 Introduction
10.2 Houses-Flats-Apartments
10.2.1 Housing Rental
- Finding a house - Accommodation Offices
- Residential Contracts and Legislation
10.2.2 Housing Facilities
- Telephone
- Electricity
- Water
10.2.3 Buying/building a house
10.3 Lodging - Hotels
- National Union of Hotels Confederation
- Hellenic Chamber of Hotels
- Hotel Search Form
SECTION 11 Services and other practical information
11.1 Introduction
11.2 Banks and Financial Institutions
11.2.1 Public Institutions
11.2.2 Private Institutions
11.3 Transportation
11.3.2 Private Transportation
- Buying a car
- Vehicle registration and licensing
- Driving licence
- Renting a car
- Road Connections
- Road Maps
11.3.3 Public Transportation
- Urban Transportation
- Athens Metro
- Local Trains
- Busses
- Taxis
4
61
61
61
61
61
61
61
61
62
65
65
65
65
65
65
66
66
66
66
66
66
67
67
67
69
69
69
69
69
70
70
70
70
70
70
71
71
72
72
72
72
72
72
- Inter-urban Transportation
- Airports
- Ports
- Trains
- Busses
11.4 Audiovision
11.4.1 Telephony
11.4.2 Television – Radio
11.4.3 Internet
11.5 Books, maps and pictures of Greece
11.6 Attractions
11.6.1Greek Nature
11.6.2 Archaeological sites and Monuments
11.6.3 Museums
11.7 Mail
11.8 Daily Life and Cost of living
11.9 Legislation Framework
SECTION 12 Useful Addresses
72
72
73
73
73
73
73
73
73
73
74
74
74
74
74
74
75
12.1 Introduction
12.2 First Aid and Emergency
12.3 Ministries
12.4 Educational Institutions
12.5 Public and Private Libraries
12.6 Other
76
76
76
76
77
78
79
Frequently asked questions
80
INDEX
81
5
Figures and Tables
SECTION 1
FIGURE 1.1 MAP OF GREECE .........................................................................................................................8
FIGURE 1.2 MAP OF THE GREEK ISLANDS ..................................................................................................9
TABLE 1.1 POPULATION .................................................................................................................................9
TABLE 1.2 AVERAGE TEMPERATURES (°C) IN SEVEN AREAS ..................................................................11
SECTION 2
TABLE 2.1 SELECTED ECONOMIC INDICATORS .......................................................................................13
TABLE 2.2 GREEK EDUCATION SYSTEM ....................................................................................................15
TABLE 2.3 GREEK ALPHABET IN CAPITAL AND SMALL LETTERS............................................................17
TABLE 2.4 LIST OF GREEK MUSEUMS ACCORDING TO THE SUBJECT:...................................................18
TABLE 2.5 BANK HOLIDAYS IN GREECE ..................................................................................................20
SECTION 3
FIGURE 3.1 OLYMPIC AIRLINES INTERNATIONAL NETWORK ...............................................................21
FIGURE 3.2 OLYMPIC AIRLINES EUROPEAN NETWORK .........................................................................22
FIGURE 3.3 BUS ROUTES MAP ......................................................................................................................23
TABLE 3.1 BUS ROUTES ................................................................................................................................23
TABLE 3.2 OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THE TICKET ....................................................24
TABLE 3.3 METRO FARES ............................................................................................................................24
TABLE 3.4 TAXI CHARGES ...........................................................................................................................26
SECTION 5
FIGURE 5.1 R&D MAP OF GREECE ............................................................................................................34
FIGURE 5.2 THE GREEK PUBLIC RESEARCH SYSTEM ..............................................................................39
TABLE 5.1 GREEK SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SCHEME ......................................................................31
TABLE 5.2 PRODUCTIVITY IN ACADEMIC SYSTEMS (1997) .....................................................................34
TABLE 5.3 SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY INDICATORS FOR GREECE ....................................................35
TABLE 5.4 RESEARCH BODIES SUPERVISED BY GSRT ............................................................................41
TABLE 5.5 TECHNOLOGICAL BODIES SUPERVISED BY GSRT................................................................42
TABLE 5.6 FELLOWSHIPS AND GRANTS ......................................................................................................53
TABLE 5.7 EUROPEAN AND INTERNATIONAL FUNDING BODIES .........................................................54
SECTION 6
FIGURE 6.1 LABOUR MARKET IN GREECE ................................................................................................55
SECTION 9
TABLE 9.1 LIST OF EMBASSIES AND CONSULATES IN GREECE ..............................................................62
SECTION 10
FIGURE 10.1 HOTEL SEARCH FORM ............................................................................................................67
SECTION 11
TABLE 11.1 PUBLIC INSTITUTIONS ..............................................................................................................69
TABLE 11.2 PRIVATE INSTITUTIONS ...........................................................................................................69
TABLE 11.3 ROAD MAPS ...............................................................................................................................71
TABLE 11.4 LEGISLATION FRAMEWORK ....................................................................................................75
SECTION 12
TABLE 12.1 FIRST AID AND EMERGENCY .................................................................................................76
TABLE 12.2 MINISTRIES ...............................................................................................................................76
TABLE 12.3 UNIVERSITY LEVEL INSTITUTIONS .......................................................................................77
TABLE 12.4 TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTES....................................................................78
TABLE 12.5 DIGITAL LIBRARIES .................................................................................................................78
TABLE 12.6 OTHER LIBRARIES ....................................................................................................................79
TABLE 12.7 OTHER USEFUL URL AND PHONE NUMBERS .......................................................................79
6
Conducting a professional career in scientific research in a foreign
country is definitely a difficult process, and the decision of whether or
not to immigrate to the destination country appears to be even tougher,
when family issues should be taken into account. In fact, obstacles such
as arranging a position in a research organisation in the foreign country
or finding a job for a family member are sometimes very difficult to
overcome. In order to eliminate or even to remove such barriers and
promote researchers’ mobility within the European Research Area
(ERA), the European Network of Mobility Centres (ERA-MORE) was
Introduction
set up and developed by the European Commission. ERA-MORE is an important initiative,
which has been launched to support European scientists and their families with significant
information about the destination country, encouraging them to go abroad and gain foreign
experience in the field of their research.
The current guideline prepared in 2005 by the working party of Science and Technology Park of
Crete (STEP-C) inspires scientists’ initiatives to settle and carry out their research activities in
Greece.
circumstances of the country, and prepare
them for an easier and better living.
- What the Practical Guide for Foreign
Researchers is all about?
The Practical Guide for Foreign Researchers
provides basic information, gathered from
governmental entities and other formal
sources, about the life and the wider
infrastructure of the Greek society.
Furthermore, this guide will be an essential
manual for foreigners who tend to visit and
work in the country, assisting them in all
matters relating to their professional and
daily lives, as it gives answers to main
questions before and after their arrival to
the country.
- What will this guide tell you?
It contains a number of short sectionschapters which provide useful and
informative issues about:

- Who should use this Guide?
The Guide is primarily intended for nonGreek scientists who which to move and
establish their research activities in Greece.
It seeks to be an aid in the overall effort of
the European Commission to stimulate and
encourage researchers’ mobility within the
ERA. Guide’s aim is to provide European
researchers and their families with
comprehensive and useful directions
regarding the every day life, such as housing,
schooling, day-care etc, as well as, the
political, economic social and technological
infrastructure of the country.
Guide’s objective is to strengthen
researchers’ knowledge for the existing

7
The
geographical
and
climate
conditions, the population, religion and
language status of the country etc
The Greek Political, Economic,
Educational and Cultural Environment
Directives on how to travel and enter
into the country
The S&T innovation policy and R&D
landscape
in
Greece,
including
information
about
the
existing
scholarship and funding framework
The Employment and labour market, as
well as the related regulations
The Greek Tax System
The Health and Social Security System
The alternative accommodation offered
by the country, as well as the related
facilities
A range of different information about
services such as banking, transportation,
travelling etc
Useful links and email addresses
Section
Greece at a glance
1.1 Introduction
Coming to Greece (Hellenic Republic) it may be useful for you
and your family to have a practical idea of how the country
looks like. Thus, this section provides general information about
the Greek geography, weather and climate conditions, currency
etc. Details such as the above will definitely help you to prepare
yourself better before and after your arrival to the country.
1
Geography
Figure 1. 1 Map of Greece
Source: The Greek National Researcher's Mobility Portal
- Location
Greece is located in south-eastern Europe on the southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula,
bordering Turkey to the east; Albania, Bulgaria and the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia (FYROM) to the north; and surrounded by the Ionian and the Aegean seas.
- Land Boundaries
Total 1,210 km (747 miles), Albania 282 km (174mi), Bulgaria 494 km (305 mi), Turkey
206 km (127 mi), Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) 228 km (141 mi.)
- Land Area
The overall land area of Greece is estimated to 130, 800 sq.km (50,471 sq.mi).
- Terrain
Some 80% of the mainland is mountainous with ranges extending into the sea as
peninsulas or chains of islands, while 20% of the total land area of Greece consists of
more than 3,000 islands along its coast that range from very small islands to Crete which
8
is the fifth largest Mediterranean island. Other large islands in Greece are: Evia, Khios,
Lesvos, Rodos, Kefallonia, Corfu, Limnos, Samos and Naxos. Most islands lie in the
Aegean Sea and are divided in seven groups -from north to south-, (Source: Greek National
Tourism Organisation):
Figure 1. 2 Map of the Greek islands
Source: www.yahoo.com
- Coastline
13,676 km (8,442 mi) of coastline on the Aegean, Ionian, and Mediterranean Seas
- Population
According to the Hellenic Republic Ministry of Economy and Finance, the population of
Greece at the 2001 census was 10.964.020 with the following percentages:
Table 1. 1 Population
Male
Female
Urban
Semi-rural
Rural
49.49%
50.51%
58,8%
12,8
28,4%
5.427.682
5.536.338
-
- Currency
From 01/01/2002 the national currency of
Greece is EURO (Euro has replaced Greek
drachmas) and its notes are in seven
denominations: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and
500. However, foreign currency can be
Source: Data based on primary analysis
9
converted at all the major banks, airports and central locations in many cities. In
addition, paying with credit cards is fairly easy, and most of the stores accept them.
- Religion Affiliations
The official religion of Greece is Greek Orthodox Christianity, which accounts for
approximately 98% of the population. There are also a small minority of Muslims which
account for 1.5% of the population. Minority religions face some discrimination from the
state Greek Orthodox Church.
- Languages and national flag
The official language is Greek (Ellinika) with 98% of the population speaking and writing
it. However, Greek people are multilingual and so English, French and German are also
widely understood and spoken, especially from young people.
Figure 1.3
The national flag of Greece consisted of 9 horizontal stripes,
alternatively blue and white; a white cross on a blue square field in
canton, symbolising the blue of the Hellenic Sea and the Whiteness
of its restless waves.
National flag of Greece
- Weather and Climate conditions
The climate in Greece is typical of the Mediterranean climate: mild and rainy winters,
relatively warm and dry summers and, generally, extended periods of sunshine
throughout most of the year. The weather in Greece varies from the dry climate of Attiki
(Athens’ greater area) and East Greece in general, to the wet climate of Northern and
Western Greece.
In climatological terms, the year can be broadly subdivided into two main seasons: The
cold and rainy period lasting from mid-October until the end of March, and the warm
and dry season lasting from April until September.
During the first period the coldest months are January and February, with, a mean
minimum temperature ranging, on average, between 5 -10 degrees Celsius near the coasts
and 0 - 5 Celsius over the mainland, with lower values (generally below freezing) over the
northern part of the country.
Long stretches of consecutive rainy days are infrequent in Greece, even during the
winter, and the sky does not remain cloudy for more than a few days in a row, as it does
in other regions of the world. “Bad weather” days in winter are often interrupted, during
January and the first fortnight of February, with sunny days, known as ‘Halcyon days’
since ancient times.
The winter is milder in the Aegean and Ionian Islands compared to Northern and
Eastern mainland Greece.
During the warm and dry period the weather is usually stable, the sky is clear, the sun is
bright and there is generally no rainfall. There are, however, infrequent and brief intervals
of rapid rain or thunderstorms chiefly over mainland areas.
The warmest period occurs during the last ten days of July and the first ten days of
August, when the mean maximum temperature lies between 29.0 and 35.0 degrees
Celsius. During the warm period the high temperatures are tempered by fresh sea breezes
in the coastal areas of the country and from the north winds, known as ‘Etesian’, blowing
mainly in the Aegean. (Source: Hellenic National Meteorology Service)
10
Table 1. 2 Average temperatures (°C) in seven areas
Athens
JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
ΜΑY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC
Corfu Heraklion Rhodes Santorini Thessaloniki Serres
Island
Island
Island
10,3
9,7
12,1
10,7
10,3
12,3
12,4
12,0
13,6
16,0
15,0
16,6
20,7
19,6
20,3
25,1
23,8
24,3
27,9
26,4
26,1
27,7
26,2
26,0
24,2
22,7
23,4
19,4
18,4
20,0
15,5
14,3
16,7
12,2
11,2
13,9
Source: Hellenic National Meteorology Service
11,8
12,0
13,6
16,6
20,6
24,7
26,9
27,0
24,6
20,6
16,5
13,4
11,2
11,2
12,6
15,5
19,1
23,3
25,4
24,8
22,5
19,0
15,4
12,7
5,0
6,6
9,7
14,2
19,4
24,2
26,5
25,9
21,7
16,1
11,0
6,8
3,9
6,2
9,6
14,2
19,6
24,3
26,3
25,3
21,6
15,5
9,2
5,0
- Time zone
The local time (for the whole country) zone is European Standard Time (EET): 2 hours
ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2).
11
Political, Economic,
Educational & Cultural
Environment: A short
overview
Section
2
2.1 Introduction
Information regarding the Political, Economic, Educational and Cultural structure of the
Greek society is presented in this section.
2.2 Political system
Greece is the birthplace of politics as an art and democracy as a form of government.
The present Greek Constitution voted in 1975 and amended in 1986 and 2001, defines
the country's political system as a Parliamentary Democracy with a President as Head of State. In
general, popular sovereignty is the foundation of government and all powers derive from
the people and exist for the people and the nation; they shall be exercised as specified by
the Constitution. The Hellenic Parliament consists of 300 members elected directly by
the people.
Furthermore, the Greek governmental structure has many similarities with other
democratic countries in Europe, while it has been described as a compromise between
the French and German models. The prime minister and cabinet council play the central
role in the political process, while the president performs some governmental functions
in addition to ceremonial duties. The prime minister is elected by the people every four
years and has the right to be re-elected, while the president is elected by the parliament to
a five-year term and can be re-elected just once.
The current Government of Greece came to office as a result of the 7th March 2004
elections and is based on the New Democracy party. Prime minister of the Hellenic
Republic is Mr. Kostas Karamanlis and President is Mr Karolos Papoulias. (Source: Hellenic
Parliament)
2.2.1 The Greek Constitution
In the spring of 2001 a new, more extensive revision of
the Constitution was voted in a consensual climate. It is
noteworthy that, despite the fact that a total of seventynine articles of the Constitution were amended, in the
majority of the cases the amendments was accepted by
four fifths of all the parliamentarians, so the term
"consensual revision" reflects the political reality.
Constitution of Greece
URL:
http://www.parliament.gr/
english/politeuma/syntag
ma.pdf
The revised Constitution introduced new individual rights (such as the protection of
genetic identity or the protection of personal data from electronic processing), it
introduced new rules of transparency in political life (regarding e.g. the financing of
political parties, electoral expenditures, the relations of media owners with the State, etc.),
it reorganised the operation of the Parliament and it reinforced decentralisation.
(Source: Hellenic Parliament)
12
2.3 Economic system
The Greek economy adopts the principles of free enterprise and is bound by the
regulations of international organisations such as ECOFIN and WTO, of which it is a
member. Additionally, Greece is a member of the European Monetary Union (EMU)
and one of the very well performing economies in the Eurozone. Nowadays, the country
has become the economic hub of Southeast Europe and offers a stable and healthy
economic environment that is supportive to the needs of business and investors.
Table 2. 1 Selected Economic Indicators
Source: Ministry of Economy and Finance.
- Ministry of Economy and Finance
URL: www.ypetho.gr
- Ministry of Economy and Finance General Accounting Office
URL: www.mof-glk.gr
2.3.2 The 2003 update of the Hellenic stability and growth programme: 2002-2006
In 2003 the Greek economy continued to perform quite strongly, and the prospects for
growth in the coming years are quite encouraging. The Private consumption remained
buoyant and Investment spending remained linked to the financial flows from the E.U
Structural Funds. The external sector deficit remained high as exports of tourist services
stagnated due to weak foreign demand and geopolitical uncertainties. Inflation continued
to be higher than the E.U average, while the unemployment rate fell to 8.9 per cent in
13
the second quarter of 2003 from 9.6 per cent a year ago. Further information regarding
the recent developments and prospects of the Greek Economy, the economic policies
for the period 2004-2006 and other economic figures could be found at the following
web-address: http://www.eommex.gr/english/Country_Economy/2003_2006.htm
2.4 Education system
The Greek education system includes preschool education, primary education, secondary
education and tertiary education. All Greek citizens have access to the Greek education
system at all levels of public education, as do foreigners under certain conditions.
Knowledge of Greek, written and spoken, is essential, while at the higher education
levels proficiency in a second language is desirable and, in certain circumstances,
required. The education system includes schools for emigrants, induction courses, and
Greek language departments at private schools. In addition, the system includes
intercultural education schools for children with cultural, religious and linguistic
particularities. Foreign students seeking admission to tertiary level institutions in Greece
must have a certificate of proficiency in the Greek language.
In terms of the tuition fees, public education in Greece is provided free of charge at all
levels. Tuition fees must be paid only for study at the “Greek Open University”, for
certain postgraduate programmes, and for postsecondary vocational training. There are a
restricted number of fee-paying private educational establishments at pre-school, primary
and secondary education levels. Besides, a certain number of foreign private schools have
a foreign curriculum and operate under the provisions of the Foreign Schools Act.
(Information can be found at URL: www.ypepth.gr)
2.4.1 Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs
The official website of the Greek Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs is URL:
www.ypepth.gr
2.4.2 The Greek Education System
Education in Greece is compulsory for all children 6-15 years old; namely, it includes
Primary (Dimotiko) and Lower Secondary (Gymnasio) Education. The school life of the
students, however, can start from the age of 2.5 years (pre-school education) in
institutions (private and public) called "Vrefonipiakoi Paidikoi Stathmi" (creches).
In some Vrefonipiakoi Stathmoi there are also Nipiaka Tmimata (nursery classes) which
operate along with the Nipiagogeia (kindergartens).
Attendance at Primary Education (Dimotiko) lasts for six years, and children are admitted
at the age of 6. Along with the regular kindergartens (Nipiagogeia) and the Dimotika, all day
primary schools are in operation, with an extended timetable and an enriched
Curriculum.
Post-compulsory Secondary Education, according to the reform of 1997, consists of two
school types: Eniaia Lykeia (Unified Upper Secondary Schools) and the Technical
Vocational Educational Schools (TEE). The duration of studies in Eniaia Lykeia (EL) is
three years and two years (a' level) or three years (b' level) in the Technical Vocational
Educational Schools (TEE). Mutual student transfer from one type of school to the
other is possible.
Along with the mainstream schools of Primary and Secondary Education, Special
Nipagogeia (kindergartens), Dimotika, Gymnasia, Lykeia and upper secondary classes are in
operation, which admit students with special educational needs. Musical, Ecclesiastical
14
and Physical Education Gymnasia and Lykeia are also in operation.
Post-compulsory Secondary Education also includes the Vocational Training Institutes
(IEK) , which provide formal but unclassified level of education. These Institutes are not
classified as an educational level, because they accept both Gymnasio (lower secondary
school) and Lykeio (upper secondary school) graduates according to the relevant
specializations they provide.
Public higher education is divided into Universities and Technological Education
Institutes (TEI). Students are admitted to these Institutes according to their performance
at national level examinations taking place at the second and third grade of Lykeio.
Additionally, students are admitted to the Hellenic Open University upon the completion
of the 22 year of age by drawing lots. (Source: Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs)
The following table presents concisely the structure of the Greek education system, as it
consists of institutions of the formal, classified or unclassified education.
Table 2. 2 Greek education system
Higher Education
Postgraduate studies(Universities, TEI- Hellenic Open University) - Hellenic Open University
Universities
Conventional ----- Technological Education Institutes (TEI)
Secondary Education
Lykeia:
- Musical
- Ecclesiastical (self sufficient and autonomous)
- Physical Education Schools B' grade
- Special A' grade
TEE:
Β and A Level
C and B Level
IEK
GYMNASIO:
(General, Musical, Ecclesiastical, Physical
Education, Special) compulsory education
Primary Education
DIMOTIKO (mainstream, All-day, Special)
NIPIAGOGEIO (mainstream, All-day, Special)
NIPIAKA TMIMATA
PAIDIKOI STATHMOI
Source: Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs
A detailed description of the Greek Education System is available in a number of
different languages by the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs at the following
web address:
http://europa.eu.int/ploteus/portal/renderers/generalinfo_renderer.jsp?DocId=34447
&SecMode=1&Portal=false&Language=el_GR
2.4.3 List of Foreign Schools in Greece
For the researchers who come to Greece with their families, schools seem to be an
important issue. The following web addresses provide information regarding where you
15
can find a school for your children, as well as details on how to register them to the
schools.
-
List of foreign schools with a Greek Curriculum is available at
URL: www.ypepth.gr/en_ec_page1545.htm
-
List of foreign schools with a non-Greek Curriculum is available at
-
List of foreign schools with both non-Greek and Greek Curricula is available at
8
2.4.4 Scholarships and Educational Exchanges
The State Scholarships Foundation (IKY) www.iky.gr and other public and private bodies
provide scholarships both to Greek, EU and third-country students who wish to study at
tertiary education institutions. Besides, scholarships are granted to graduates of universities
and technical education institutions for post-graduate or post-doctoral studies in Greece and
abroad. Finally, the IKY awards scholarships to pupils of secondary level technical
vocational schools. Scholarships are also available for trainees attending the Vocational
Training Institutes (IEKs) funded by the Organisation for Vocational Education and Training
(OEEK) URL: www.oeek.gr.
- Information about Scholarships Granted by the Greek goverment to Foreign Citizens is
available at www.ypepth.gr/en_ec_category1127.htm
- Information about Greek Language Summer Course Scholarships in Ionian University
is available at www.ypepth.gr/en_ec_page1128.htm
In terms of the Educational Exchanges, recent years have seen the successful
introduction of educational exchanges and the twinning of primary and secondary
schools in Greece with schools abroad.
2.4.5 Learning Greek
Although you will probably work in an English speaking environment you will need to
learn Greeks, as it appears to be essential in the every day life.
The Greek language, which belongs to the family of the Indo-European languages and
constitutes a separate branch, originates from the language of Homer and the literature
of Classical Greece, and it consists of 24 letters, 17 consonants and 7 vowels.
The body competent for supporting and promoting Greeks is the Greek Language based
in Thessaloniki (www.greeklanguage.gr). Greek Language Centre is a private law body
operating under the supervision of the Ministry of Education and Religious Affairs
(www.greeklanguage.gr/eng/index.html), and provides supporting services for Greeks
returned from abroad, Greeks abroad and foreigners. Among its activities are setting
various levels of exams in the Greek language and certification of fluency levels in Greek.
Additionally, a range of different Greek courses provided by universities, public and
private schools, exists. Some of them might take a few weeks, while others will take a few
years.
16
Universities
Athens University
URL: www.nglt.uoa.gr/index_en.html
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
URL: www.auth.gr/smg
University of Patra
URL: www.kedek.gr
University of Ioanina
URL: www.uoi.gr/oldsite/exchange.html
Democritus University of Thrace
URL: www.duth.gr
University of Crete
URL: www.ediamme.edc.uoc.gr/ediamme2/index.php?information
Ionian University
URL: www.uion.edu.gr
Table 2. 3 Greek alphabet in capital and small letters
Capital
Letters
A
Β
Γ
Δ
Ε
Ζ
Η
Θ
Ι
Κ
Λ
Μ
Ν
Ξ
Ο
Π
Ρ
Σ
Τ
Υ
Φ
Χ
Ψ
Ω
Small
Letters
α
β
γ
δ
ε
ζ
η
η
ι
κ
λ
μ
ν
ξ
ο
π
ρ
σ
τ
υ
φ
χ
ψ
ω
English Pronunciation
[a] -father
[v] -vase
[g,y] -yes
[th] -this
[e] -met
[z] -zone
[e] - machine
[th] -theme
[I] -machine
[k] -pack
[l] -lake
[m] -man
[n] -no
[x,ks] -fox, excel
[o] - pot
[p] - pillow
[r] - rocket
[s] - song
[t] - table
[i,e] - machine
[ph] - phone, fire
[ch, h] - her, Bach
[ps] - lips
[o] - pot
Other language Schools
- The Institute for Language and
Speech Processing (ILSP)
http://www.ilsp.gr, which offers a
series of Greek lessons for beginners:
http://www.xanthi.ilsp.gr/filog/
- The Centre's Greek Language
program:
http://www.athenscentre.gr/index.html
- The Hellenic Culture Centre
(http://www.hcc.gr) which organises in
Athens the “Modern Greek language
Courses”:
http://www.hcc.gr/courses/athens
Online Dictionaries
- Greek/English, Greek/French,
Greek/Arabian Lexicon:
http://www.xanthi.ilsp.gr/kemeslex/def
ault.asp
- Panorama of the European Words Multilingual dictionary:
http://users.otenet.gr/%7Evamvakos/
multilingual.htm
Source: Ministry o Foreign Affairs
Download Greek Fonts at URL: www.in.gr/grfonts/arial.zip
17
2.5 Culture
Greece has a rich cultural heritage and,
without doubt, there are many unique
archaeological places and monuments such
as the Acropolis of Athens, the Epidaurus
Theatre etc. Country’s cultural life is
varied, offering a range of different
museums, theatres and cinemas, live music,
festivals etc. information is presented at
the following paragraphs:
The Acropolis of Athens
2.5.1 Ministry of Culture
The official site of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture, which is the governmental body
responsible for cultural heritage and the Arts in Greece, is www.culture.gr, for the Hellenic
Foundation for Culture is www.hfc.gr/index_en.asp and for the Hellenic Culture Organisation
SA is www.hch.culture.gr/index_en.html
2.5.2 Museums
Table 2. 4 List of Greek Museums according to the subject:
Category
Website
Archaeological Museums and Collections
Byzantine Museums and Collections
Historical and Folklore Museums
Museums of Greek Art (ancient, byzantine, modern)
Museums of Asian Art
Art Museums and Galleries
Theatrical Museums
Cinema Museums
Music Museums
Nautical Museums
Museums of Natural History
Museums of Science and Technology
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/arch_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/byz_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/hist_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/gr_art_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/asian_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/eik_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/the_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/cin_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/music_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/navy_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/phys_mus.html
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/science_mus.html
- Cultural Map of Hellas, which provides information for proximately 1000 entries of
Museums, Archaeological Sites or Monuments:
www.culture.gr/2/21/toc/cult_map.html
- Online Guide for Museums located in Greece is available at: www.greece-museums.com
18
2.5.3 Theater-Cinemas
Useful information for major organisations
and cinema festivals is provided at:
www.culture.gr/4/41/cinema.html
The Hellenic Ministry of Culture, within the
framework of its cultural activities, has
designed and activated energetically a policy
for the support and advancement of
cinemas.
Epidaurus Theater
This policy concerns cinemas that the Municipal Authorities have already struggled to
preserve to date or to re-activate by re-shaping radically their facilities and equipment.
Network of Municipal Cinema Theatres list: www.culture.gr/4/41/ddk.html
2.5.4 Recreation and Sports
Greece, the country where the Olympic Games were born, is ideal for the development
of sports activities, as well as, holding sports events (sports tourism). During the past few
decades, more and more big athletic events in many sports (Athens 2004-Olympic
Games, world championships, European competitions, important international
tournaments etc) have been successfully organised in the country. These sports events
have considerably contributed to the construction of many modern bigger or smaller
sports facilities, stadiums and training centres for a wide range of sports all over Greece,
where both the local people and visitors of the area have the opportunity to practice their
favourite sports: from athletics, soccer, volleyball and basketball to tennis, golf, sailing or
windsurfing.
Moreover, many hotels provide special sports facilities for their customers (basketball,
volleyball, tennis, golf, water sports etc). The people-in-charge of the hotels can provide
analytical information.
2.5.5 Cultural events-festivals / Bank Holidays
You can obtain information on programmes and timetables of major cultural events and
festivals visiting the following websites:
-
The e-magazine culture-guide is a project operated by the scheme "Domain of
Culture" of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture. Culture-guide covers all cultural and
artistic events and activities organized by all the organisations and institutions
that are supervised, subsidized or contractually connected to the Hellenic
Ministry of Culture, local government bodies at municipal and prefecture level
along with their cultural services, Greek artists in collaboration to the Ministry of
Culture and the local authorities etc:
URL: www.cultureguide.gr/events/index.jsp
-
The Hellenic Festival, which includes the Athens and Epidaurus Festivals: URL:
www.hellenicfestival.gr/site/index_en.htm
19
Table 2. 5 Bank Holidays in Greece
DATE
1 January:
6 January:
HOLIDAY
New Year's Day
Epiphany
Ash Monday
25 March:
National Holiday
Easter
Whit Monday (Holiday only for public sector)
15 August:
Dormition (Assumption) of The Virgin
28 October:
National Holiday
25 & 26 December: Christmas
Note: Holidays in red are subject to change (Depends on Easter Date)
2.5.6 Tourism
Greece is a country with many faces. It is certain that more than one visit is necessary in
order for someone to say that they know one of its faces well. That is why visitors
coming to Greece for the first time usually come back in order to experience again what
impressed them or to explore what they could not seek the previous times. Tourism and
Greece are two concepts directly connected bringing to mind charming associations of
pictures, sounds, feelings and people. The Mediterranean temperate climate of the
country, the versatility of the environment, the monuments and its history, the clean seas
and the proverbial hospitality of the Greek people have attracted a big number of
tourists to the country for many years now.
The tourist infrastructure in Greece is fully developed. The visitor can find tourist agents
in every part of the country ready to provide the necessary services and information and
the organizational infrastructure for various forms of tourism. In recent years, special
forms of tourism such as
- therapeutic–spa tourism (www.eot.gr/pages.php?pageID=410&langID=2),
- religious tourism (www.eot.gr/pages.php?pageID=408&langID=2),
- ecological tourism (www.eot.gr/pages.php?pageID=738&langID=2),
- agro-tourism (www.eot.gr/pages.php?pageID=826&langID=2)
etc, have been developed and organised more and more systematically in Greece. Thus,
the country has become a popular tourist destination not only for holidays of the
“classical type” but also for people interested in alternative holidays who, apart from
relaxing and sightseeing, wish to enjoy the unique experience offered by the country’s
nature and its “products”, its religious culture and the specialised infrastructure of the
Greek tourist industry.
(Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs)
The Greek National Tourism Organisation (www.eot.gr) which is a public entity
supervised by the Ministry of Tourism plays an important role in the development of
tourism in Greece
20
Getting to Greece
Section
3.1 Introduction
This section aims to provide researchers with updated and easily
accessible information concerning all matters related to their
travel to the country. The following information describes the
possible alternative ways of traveling and entering in to the
country.
3
3.2 By Air
There are two airlines in Greece. “Olympic Airlines” and “Aegean Airlines”. Olympic
Airlines (http://www.olympicairlines.com) operates non-stop flights to and from Athens
daily from a range of different countries. You can check the following figures in order to
find out whether or not Olympic flies to or from your country.
Figure 3. 1 Olympic Airlines International Network
Source: Olympic Airlines
21
Figure 3.2 Olympic Airlines European Network
Source: Olympic Airlines
In addition, several tour operators run charter flights to Greece from the five continents.
For further information contact the Greek National Tourist Organization offices
(Working hours: Weekdays 09.00 -19.00, Sat. & Sun: 10:00 - 16:00, Tel.: + 30 210
3310392, +30 210 3310716, E-mail: [email protected])
Arriving at the Athens International Airport - Transport from the Airport
The Athens International Airport called “Eleftherios Venizelos” (URL:
http://www.aia.gr), which is a convenient intermediate stop for destinations to five
continents, is located 33 km southeast of Athens and can be rapidly accessed via a sixlane motorway and public transport - express airport bus on a 24 hours basis - from
Athens center and the port of Piraeus.
- By Bus
Six public bus routes serve exclusively the airport, connecting the greater area of Athens
and Piraeus, carrying passengers to and from the airport:
22
Table 3. 1 Bus routes
X-92 Athens Airport Express - Kifisia: Airport – Attiki Odos – Kifisias Avenue- Kifisia,
(average travelling time 45').
URL: www.aia.gr/EN/passenger_information/transportation&parking/by_bus/E92T.pdf
X-93 Athens Airport Express- Kifisos Coach Station: Airport – Attiki Odos – National
Road – Kifisos Avenue – Kifisisos Intercity Bus Station, (average travelling time 65'), 24h
X-94 Athens Airport Express - Ethniki Amina: Airport – Attiki Odos – Marathonos
Avenue – Mesogeion Avenue – Metro Station “Ethniki Amyna” (Note: Passengers can transfer from
the Airport Bus to the Metro this departure point), (average travelling time 45'-50'), from 7.30 to 23.30
URL: www.aia.gr/EN/passenger_information/transportation&parking/by_bus/E9594T_en.pdf
X-95 Athens Airport Express – Syntagma: Airport – Attiki Odos – Marathonos Avenue –
Mesogeion Avenue – Metro Station “Ethniki Amyna” (Note: Passengers can transfer from the Airport
Bus to the Metro this departure point) - Mesogeion Avenue – Vas Sofias – Vas Kostantinou – Vas
Olgas – Vas Amallias – Syntagma (city centre), (average travelling time 70'), 24h
URL: www.aia.gr/EN/passenger_information/transportation&parking/by_bus/E9594T_en.pdf
X-96 Athens Airport Express - Piraeus: Airport- Varis Coropiou Avenue – Baris-Varkizas
Avenue – Alkyonidon - Poseidonos Avenue – Ethnarhou Makariou – Plateia Karaiskaki (Peirais
Port), (average travelling time 90'), 24h
X-97 Athens Airport Express - Dafni Metro Station: Aiport – Coropiou – Varis Coropiou
Avenue - Baris-Varkizas Avenue – Bouliagmeni Avenue – Dafni Metro Station (average traveling
time 70')
1
Figure 3. 3 Bus routes map
URL: www.aia.gr/EN/passenger_information/transportation&parking/by_bus/images/map3.jpg
23
Table 3. 2 Other Important Information about the ticket
Ticket price
Use
Validate your
ticket
Where to buy
Penalty
€ 2.90, (all destinations)
- For only ONE trip to or from the airport
- For 24 hours from the time of its validation during the first trip
- For unlimited number of trips by any other public transport mode
-ONLY ONCE, if you start your travel using one of the airport express lines.
-TWICE, in case you use one or more public transport lines prior to the use of
an airport express line. ONCE when you board on the first line and ONCE
when you board on the airport express line.
From the bus driver, all metro stations and public transport ticket outlets.
- Passes: The monthly ticket cards are also valid on the above four lines and
cost€35,00. For those meeting certain requirements, a discounted monthly card
is also available for €17,50.
The penalty for not having a validated ticket is € 29.00
- By Metro
The Airport is accessible via Metro Line 3: "Athens International Airport - Monastiraki"
The metro stations from Athens International Airport to Monastiraki station are:
-
Athens International Airport
Doukissis Plakentias (connection with Suburban Rail)
Chaladri
Ethniki Amina
Katehaki
Panormou
Ambelokipi
Megaro Mousikis
Evagelismos
Syntagma (connection with Metro Line 2:Sepolia - Agios Dimitrios, "Alexandros
Panagoulis")
Monastiraki (connection with Metro Line 1: Piraeus - Kifisia)
The journey time from Athens International Airport to Syntagma is 27 minutes and to
Piraeus 60 minutes.
Table 3. 3 Metro Fares
Single fare
Return ticket (within 48 hours)
Single fare for 2 persons (flat ticket)
Single fare for 3 persons (flat ticket)
Teens (under 18 years), Students
Senior Citizens (65+ years)
Mobility impaired
€6
€10
€10
€10
€3
€3
€3
24
Metro line 3 is connected to:
-
Metro line 2: Sepolia - Agios Dimitrios, Alexandros
Panagoulis at Syntagma station
Metro line 1: Piraeus - Kifisia: at Monastiraki station
Suburban Rail: Larissis Station - Athens International
Airport at Doukissis Plakentias Station
- Tickets are sold at the automatic ticket
machines installed at all METRO stations,
as well as at the ticket booths.
- Ticket Validation should be done before
heading the platforms at the validation
machines.
Source: ATTIKO METRO
URL: www.ametro.gr
- By Suburban Rail
Athens International Airport is connected via the Suburban Rail to Larissis Station
(Athens Central Railway Station). The railway stations from Athens International Airport
to Larissis Station are:
- Athens International Airport
- Koropi
- Kantza
- Pallini
Doukissis Plakentias (Connection with
Metro Line 3)
- Kifisias
- Nerantziotisa (Connection with Metro
Line 1)
- Iraklio
- Aharnes Railway Junction (S.K.A)
- Larissis Station (Connection with Metro)
Line2)
The estimated journey time from Athens International Airport to Larissis Station is
approximately 30 minutes.
Fares
Zone 1 - Piraeus - Acharnai Railway Center
Zone 2 - Acharnai Railway Center - Neratziotissa
- D. Plakendias
Zone 3 - D. Plakendias - Koropi
Fixed price for all zones
25
€0,7
€0,7
€3
€6
Pricelist
3
the return ticket,
(valid 1 month)
10
for a team
(>2 person)
5 per person
6
3
10
5 per person
4
2
7
3,5 per person
3
1,5
5
2,5 per person
Destination
Fixed
Discounted
ΑTHENS
IRAKLEIO
NERATZIOTISSA
KIFISIAS
PLAKENTIAS
PALLINI
KANTZA
KOROPI
6
ATHENS-AIRPORT
Athens Iraklio Neratziotissa Kifisias Plakendia Pallini Kantza Koropi
First
trains
06:06
06:36
06:17
06:47
07:0019:00
:06
:17
:36
:47
20:06
20:17
Last
trains
06:20
06:50
:05 *
:20
:35
:50
20:05
20:20
06:22
06:52
:07
:22
:37
:52
20:07
20:22
06:26
06:56
:11
:26
:41
:56
20:11
20:26
06:30
07:00
:15
:30
:45
:00
20:15
20:30
06:33
07:03
:18
:33
:48
:03
20:18
20:33
06:39
07:09
:24
:39
:54
:09
20:24
20:39
Airport
(arrival)
06:44
07:14
:29
:44
:59
:14
20:29
20:44
*The 1st train from Athens International Airport to Athens departs at 06:50 & the
corresponding to Nerantziotissa at 07:05
Source: Suburban Rail
- By Taxi
The airport is accessible by taxi on a 24-hour basis. The indicative taxi charges are
presented in the following table
Table 3. 4 Taxi charges
Taxi Charges
Euro
Start of the meter
Rate per km inside City limits
Rate per km outside City limits
Radio Taxi simple call
Radio Taxi appointment
Night Tariff (24:00 - 05:00)
Minimum Fare
From and to Airports
From Sea Ports, Railways and Coach stations
Waiting time per hour
Baggage over 10 kg each
€0.75
€0.26
€0.50
€1.30
€2.20
€0.50
€1.50
€2.00
€0.70
€7.10
€0.29
26
Receipt
According to the Greek Legislation, taxi drivers are obliged to provide a receipt for the
amount paid for transportation services upon request. The receipt should also indicate
the taxi registration number and the driver's name. (Source: Athens International Airport)
- By Car
The main corridor providing access to and from Athens International Airport is Attiki
Odos, a high-speed toll motorway, connecting Eleusina, Athens' western gate, with the
airport through the followings junctions:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
"Mandra" junction (connection to Thivon Avenue)
"Magoula" junction (connection to Magoula)
"Aspropyrgos" junction (connection to Aspropyrgo)
"Egaleo Ring Road" junction (connection to Egaleo Ring Road)
"Filis Avenue" junction (connection to Filis Avenue)
"Dimokratias Avenue" junction (connection to Dimokratias Avenue)
"Athens-Lamia" junction (connection to Athens-Lamia National Road)
"Iraklio" junction (connection to Irakleiou Avenue)
"Kimis Avenue" junction (connection to Kimis Avenue)
"Kifissias Avenue" junction (connection to Kifissias avenue)
"Pentelis Avenue" junction (connection to Pentelis avenue)
"D.Plakedias Avenue" junction (connection to D.Plakendias Avenue)
"Anthousa" junction (connection to Anthousa)
"Marathonos Avenue" junction (connection to Marathonos Avenue)
"Leodario" junction (connection to Ymitos Ring Road)
"Kantza" junction (connection to Kantza)
"Peania" junction (connection to Peania)
"Airport" junction (connection to Airport and Varis-Koropiou Avenue)
All the south-eastern suburbs of the Athens (i.e. Ilisia, Zografou, Vyronas. Kesariani,
Papagou, Holargos, Ag. Paraskevi) have access from and to the airport through the
Ymitos Ring Road. Users can choose between the following junctions to reach the
airport:
•
•
•
•
•
"Katechaci Avenue" junction (connection to Katechaci Avenue)
"Papagou" junction (connection to Papagou)
"Dimokritou" junction (connection to Cholargos)
"Ag. Paraskevi" junction (connection to Ag. Paraskevi)
"Glyka Nera" junction (connection to Glyka Nera, Lavriou Avenue)
Toll free access from and to the airport can also be obtained through Lavriou Avenue
and other primary roads. Driving to the Southern suburbs or Piraeus, you can find your
way from the airport avoiding tolls via Possidonos Avenue or Vouliagmenis Avenue,
Varis-Koropoiou Avenue and finally Attiki Odos motorway using the airport junction
Car Rental at the Airport
Six car rental companies currently operate at Athens International Airport with
offices located at the Arrivals level. The car rental area is within walking distance from
the Main Terminal Building, located at the northern side of the building.
Arriving passengers with pre-booked rentals or wishing to rent a car should proceed to
the respective operator's booth at the arrivals level. (Source: Athens International Airport)
27
- By Limousine
Limousine services are provided upon request at the inner curbside of the Arrivals Level
between doors 3 and 4.
3.3 By Sea
There are several big ports in Greece accommodating sailings of passenger ships, cruise
ships and freighters. The ports including Piraeus, Patras, Thessaloniki and Heraklion, are
all convenient embarkation points to set sail on a Mediterranean cruise or ferry to Italy,
Israel, Egypt or the Black Sea.
Further information can be found at: www.yen.gr
3.4 By Rail
Updated information about trains, rail stations and timetables can be found at the official
website of the Hellenic Railway Organisation (OSE)
URL: www.ose.gr
Tel: +30 210 5297002
Email: [email protected]
3.5 Automobile
There are two different alternatives for those who wish to enter Greece by driving a
vehicle. The first one is to ferry their vehicles across to one of the country's major ports
or, while the second one is to enter the country overland.
Furthermore, the major points of county’s entrance are the following:
-
Yugoslavia - Evzoni, 550 kms From Athens
Yugoslavia - Niki, 633 kms from Athens
Bulgaria - Promahonas, 736 kms from Athens
Turkey - Kastania, 985 kms from Athens
Turkey - kipi , 892 kms from Athens.
28
Entering Greece
Section
4.1 Introduction
Greece contributes to the overall effort of the Commission to
encourage and foster the mobility of the European researchers
within the ERA by creating a more favorable environment for
scientific personnel in Europe. Thus, all foreign researchers,
ether from Europe or not, are welcome to enter the Greek
4
territory as long as they fulfil the country’s legal requirements. Law “2910/2001”
available in PDF format, (URL: www.imepo.gr/pdfs/LAW%202910_2001_English.pdf)
describes the entry and stay conditions of foreigners in Greece, and provides basic
information regarding the current legislation for aliens who entering and staying within
the country for working as employees or for exercising of an independent economic
activity.
4.2 Entry and stay for European Union researchers
Entry
European Union scientific personnel (including the family members,
whatever their nationality) have the right to enter Greece without
having to comply with special formalities. Needed documentations
are a valid passport or an identity card or any official travel
document recognised by international conventions. However, apart
from the above documents, immigration officers may ask members
of your family to provide evidence of their relation, i.e. to prove their family status or to
produce documents evidencing either their dependent status or that they were living
under your roof in the country of origin. Thereby, family members who are travelling
with you and who are not nationals of a Member State must hold, as a general rule, a
valid passport. In the case of minors who might not have such a document of their own,
the Greek legislation usually provides for an entry to be made in the passport of one of
the parents.
Clearly, researchers coming to Greece from the member states of EU do not require
possessing an entry visa, while immigration officers may not:
•
•
•
•
Affix a stamp on your identity document on arrival authorising you to enter the
national territory;
Ask you to furnish proof of means to support yourself;
Ask you how much money you have to spend;
Ask you questions regarding the purpose and duration of your trip.
Furthermore, immigration officers are entitled to check the validity of your identity
document when you cross the border. It should be noted that in the "Schengen Area"
border checks are no longer carried out at every border crossing point. The only checks
now made are spot checks, although these may take place anywhere on the territory of
the country. They involve checking that the person to whom the identity card/passport
was issued is the same as the person presenting it at the border.
Stay
If you tend to stay in Greece for less than 3 months (i.e. for teaching in a summer school
or participating in a research project) you are not obligated to ask for a residence permit.
29
Residence permit should be asked only in case your stay lasts for more than three
months, and it is a means of proof and not a condition of your entitlement to live in
Greece. Thus, in case you have to ask for a residence permit, it is not necessary to take
any steps to obtain it before your departure, and you are totally entitled to start your
research activities without waiting for your residence permit to be issued.
Moreover, when you apply for your residence permit, you must produce a valid passport
or identity card. The Greek authorities are also entitled to ask you to provide other
documents which vary according to your circumstances. For example:
•
if you are an employee, you may be asked for a signed statement from your
employer;
•
if you are self-employed, you may be asked to prove your self-employed status by
any appropriate means;
4.3 Entry and stay for non European Union researchers
4.3.1 Entry and Exit Requirements for non European Union researchers
Entry
The entry requirements differ in the case of non European Union researchers.
Researchers coming from non EU member countries are required to obtain a VISA.
According to the Greek Law, VISA will be granted by the Greek consular authority of
the researchers’ domicile, which shall first take into consideration reasons related to the
country’s public order, security and public health. VISA shall be valid for 3 months,
unless otherwise specified by the provisions hereof.
Stay
Researchers who have obtained a visa to Greece to undertake their research activities
may apply for a stay permit for the same reason, provided that they meet the conditions
of the Law “2910/2001” and the stay permit shall be granted for a particular reason, to
be mentioned in the application.
According to the article 8 of the same Law, researchers who wish to be granted of a stay
permit in Greece should, at least two months before the expiry of the visa, submit to the
municipal or communal authority of their domicile or residence an application for a stay
permit, submitting a photocopy of their passports or other travel document bearing the
visa.
The municipal or communal authority shall examine the completeness of the supporting
documents and transmit them along with the application to the competent researcher’s
and immigration service. This service shall examine the application within one month as
from its receipt and, after taking into account reasons concerning the public order and
security of the country, shall invite the researcher to an interview with the Immigration
Committee at a fixed place and time.
The invitation to the interview shall be served with return receipt. In case the researcher
failures to appear at the interview, he/she shall be invited again to another interview
according to the said procedure. In the event of unjustified failure to appear, the
application shall be dismissed.
The stay permit shall be granted by resolution of the Secretary - General of the Region,
on an opinion from the Immigration Committee. The stay permit shall be renewed
according to the procedure provided for by paragraphs 3-7 of this article, unless
otherwise specified by this. Further information:
Immigration Policy Institute (IPI)
URL: www.imepo.gr
30
Science & Technology and
Research & Development in
Greece
5.1 Introduction to Science and Technology Policy in Greece
Section
5
The General Secretariat for Research and Technology (GSRT) of the Ministry of
Development provides practical parties with more specific and in-depth information
about Science and Technology in Greece. Further information about the Greek Science
and Technology scheme is available at the following PDF files:
Table 5. 1 Greek Science and Technology scheme
Research & Development in
Greece
The European Research and
Innovation Area-The way
forward
Priorities of the Greek
Presidency (2003)
National Innovation Survey in
Greek Enterprises 1994-1998
''Erevnontas'' Magazine
661.8 KB
792.1 KB
96.6 KB
3.8 MB
-
www.gsrt.gr/default.asp?FILE=items/2233/149
www.gsrt.gr/default.asp?V_ITEM_ID=1919
5.2 Greek Legislation
The Greek Legislation regarding the S&T and R&D policy for Greek speaking
researchers is available at:
URL: www.cordis.lu/greece/rd_legislation.htm
5.3 Intellectual Property Rights
The Hellenic Industrial Property Organisation (OBI), established
in 1987, is the only legally qualified institution for the protection
of inventions and industrial designs. It also provides technological
information from worldwide patent databases, and it operates
three
regional
electronic
patent
libraries
(in URL: www.obi.gr
Thessaloniki, Patra and Heraklion - Crete) in order to promote the Email: [email protected]
technological information in more areas of Greece. Furthermore, Tel: +30 210 6183500
Fax: +30 210 6819231
OBI aims to contribute to the technological and industrial
development of Greece, providing important services in the industrial property field:
-
Protects the inventions in Greece, conferring Patents, Utility Model
Certificates, of European Patent Translation Filing Certificate and other protection
titles.
Protects the industrial designs and models in Greece, conferring the respective
protection certificate.
It functions as a receiving office for registering patents and industrial designs abroad.
It provides technological information on technical, bibliographical and other data on
patents in Europe, the USA and Japan.
31
-
It registers Technology Transfer Contracts.
It provides advice and opinions to the public on various matters, cooperates with
similar organisations internationally on industrial property issues, and publishes
the Industrial Property Bulletin and other informative documentation. (Source: OBI)
5.4 R&D in Greece
Over the last decade, Greece has made significant improvements in research and
technological development. Nowadays, Greece is in a “catching up” phase, compared
with other EU Member States, with strong overall trends in improving research and
innovation. The gross expenditure in R&D has been rising steadily from 0,20% of GDP
in the early 1980s to 0,68% in 1999 and has experienced the highest annual growth rate
in the EU since 1995.
The number of people employed in the area of R&D overall, as well as by occupational
category (i.e., researchers, technicians and supporting staff) has increased dramatically
between 1993 and 1999 by as much as 80%.
The country’s efforts have also helped raise awareness in the Greek industry for the need
to improve competitiveness and reduce the gap with European industry. The result of
these efforts is reflected in the increase in innovation both in the manufacturing and
services sectors. Furthermore, there is an encouraging change in the business culture
since newcomers seek to gain their competitive advantage through differentiation and
innovation rather than relying on cheap products and low-cost production.
Creation of new high-tech and knowledge intensive start-ups is enjoying significant
support. Since 1995, seed and start-up venture capital investment in Greece has achieved
an average annual real growth close to the EU average, and is comparable to Ireland’s
annual growth in 2001. On its way to developing a knowledge-based economy, Greece
also has at its disposal well-designed research policy implementation tools with concrete
objectives and clear priorities. The new vision for research and technological
development builds upon the results and experiences of the past and reflects the
international priorities, the strengths and weaknesses of the Greek research community
and the needs of Greek society. (Source: GSRT)
5.4.1 The Greek R&D System
R&D Bodies
R&D Policy developers
The main entity engaged in drawing up and implementing R&D policies in Greece is the
GSRT. GSRT coordinates research projects funded by structural funds from the
European Union. As regards developing policies, GSRT is backed by the National
Council for Research and Technology and other joint bodies (Chambers of Commerce,
Federation of Greek Industries, etc.).
The Ministry of Development is also responsible for issues relating to industry, energy,
commerce and tourism. In this context, the ministry coordinates all research initiatives
and particularly R&D projects. Other ministries involved in R&D projects are the
Ministries of Education, Agriculture and National Defence. The Ministry of Education
and Religious Affairs is responsible for research organisations in the universities.
Moreover, R&D issues in the agricultural sector and the defence sector are monitored by
the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of National Defence, respectively.
R&D Performers
The government research centres, the higher education institutions and businesses are
the bodies which implement R&D projects in Greece.
32
The majority of government research centres are monitored by GSRT, while the rest
come under other ministries. GSRT, as it is described later on, supervises 16 research
bodies and 15 technological bodies, including 6 industrial R&D institutions operating as
business firms. Other government R&D bodies are the National Foundation for
Agricultural Research (NAGREF), which comes under the Ministry of Agriculture, the
Institute of Geology and Mineral Exploration (IGME), which comes under the Ministry
of Development and the Research and Technology Centre for National Defence, which
comes under the Ministry of National Defence.
Higher Education Institutions, as presented later on, (universities, technological
educational institutes and university research institutes) come under the Ministry of
National Education and Religious Affairs and account for the greater part of research
activity, given that most Greek researchers work within them.
Research activity is being developed in various businesses, industries, etc., especially in
the information technology and communications sectors. It should be noted, however,
that private funding of R&D is extremely scarce.
R&D Funding
The main sources of funding for research in Greece are two:
- public, which includes budget appropriations, programmes co-funded by structural
funds, programmes of the EU Framework Programme for R&D, and
- private funding
Information regarding the R&D funding in Greece is described in section 5.10,
“Scholarships and Funding in Greece”.
Research Personnel
Research activity in Greece is carried out mainly in higher education institutions and in
government research centres and, to a lesser extent, in businesses. Indeed the greater part
of research personnel located in higher education institutions (research personnel covers
the number of people involved in research activities).
Other features of the Greek R&D system
In comparison with other countries, Greece possesses high calibre scientific personnel in
the field of research, both at home and abroad. Greek geographical position and the
existence of a large community of Greek scientists and academics in universities and
research centres throughout the country and the developed world are a potential source
of considerable ongoing support for existing research centres and networks in Greece,
monitoring high quality research. The overall performance of the Greek research system
is considered to be highly satisfactory, when additional factors are taken into account.
Two factors which reflect the high productivity of the Greek academic system are the
indicators of publications and citations, especially as a proportion of the total
expenditure on R&D by higher education institutions.
As shown in the table below, Greece is ahead of the (selected) countries in respect of the
scientific publications, whereas, with regard to citations, Greece is more or less on a
similar level with Ireland, Spain and France and ahead of Japan, Germany, Portugal and
Turkey. (Source: National Documentation Centre)
33
Table 5. 2 Productivity in Academic Systems (1997)
Publications Ranking² Citations Ranking²
per $m¹
per $m³
Greece
16,4
6
36,5
18
Ireland
12,9
11
38,2
17
Spain
12,1
13
36,3
19
Sweden
11,3
14
52,3
10
Netherlands
10,3
16
48,7
12
USA
9,2
20
49
11
Portugal
7,2
23
17,9
24
Turkey
3,3
26
4,2
27
UK
16
7
70,5
4
Germany
7,9
22
31,9
22
France
9,8
18
38,3
16
Japan
3,6
25
11,7
25
Source: SPRU
5.4.2 R&D Map of Greece
Figure 5. 1 R&D Map of Greece
Source: GSRT
34
1
On the basis of R&D
expenditure in higher
education institutions in
1997 at purchasing
power equivalents
²
Out of a total of 27
countries
³
On the basis of the
number of citations per
publication from the
ISI National Science
Indicators on Diskette.
5.4.3 Science and Technology Indicators for Greece
Table 5. 3 Science and Technology Indicators for Greece
Indicators
1996 1997 1998 1999 2000
Researchers (FTE) per 1000 workforce
na
2.6
na
3.3
na
0.14
0.14
0.17
0.19
na
na
na
0.51
0.19
na
na
0.68
0.28
na
na
Share of government budget allocated to R&D
(GBAORD)
Share of SMEs in publicly funded R&D executed by the
business sector (%)
Venture capital-investment per 1000 GDP
0.30
0.30
0.29
0.31
0.35
75
73
na
71
na
0.06
0.05
0.04
0.17
0.07
Scientific publications per million population
315
327
376
384
435
New S&T PhDs per 1000 population aged 25-34 years
Total R&D Expenditure in % of GDP
Industry financed R&D as % of industrial output
Highly cited publications per million population (199699, 1997-2000, 1998-2001)
European patents per million population
4
4
6
6
6
US patents per million population
2
2
2
3
2
17
18
19
20
22
Labour productivity (GDP per hour worked) in PPS
Labour productivity (GDP per hour worked) annual
average growth in % (1995-2000)
Value added in high-tech industries as % of GDP
Employment in high-tech industries as % of total
employment
Value added of knowledge intensive services as % of
GDP
Employment in knowledge intensive services as % of
total employment
Technology balance of payments receipts as % of GDP
Technology balance of payments (exports-imports) as %
of GDP
Exports of high-tech products as % of world total
(including intra-EU trade)
Source: CORDIS-ERA Scoreboard
Notes:
na = Not Available
Data in italics are estimated or provisional
35
3
2.76
2.1
1.8
1.9
1.7
1.7
2.3
2.2
2.4
2.2
2.2
33.1
33.9
34.7
35.7
35.3
20.5
20.8
21.8
22.1
22.2
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
na
0.04
0.04
0.05
0.06
0.06
5.5 Priorities and objectives of the Greek R&D Innovation Policy
The priorities and objectives of the Greek R&D and innovation policy apply on three
different levels:
- Structural and programmatic interventions
- Thematic or sectoral specifications, and
- Regional dimensions of these specifications
The structural and programmatic interventions mainly include:
¾ Increase in demand for new knowledge and research results and an increase of
investment in knowledge-intensive sectors in Greece
-
Actions are taken to increase the strategic interest of businesses in technological
innovation and the utilisation of this new scientific and technological knowledge,
as well as to create new knowledge-intensive enterprises. An indirect aim of these
efforts is the development of enterprises and organisations in Greece providing
scientific and technological services with significant export activities.
- Businesses are supported with both indirect (tax incentives) and direct (grants)
measures become involved in research, technological development and
demonstration activities hire research personnel that will enable them to design
and carry out such activities.
- Researchers in public research centres and higher education institutes, as well as
the institutes themselves, are encouraged to develop new entrepreneurial
initiatives in collaboration with the appropriate funding organisations.
- Foreign investors enjoy the same incentives as local ones to establish their
organisations in Greece and to utilize the human resources and infrastructure in
their efforts to increase competitiveness in the international arena.
- Regional and local players for economic and social development become more
active and participate in initiatives to create innovation centres through scientific
and technological parks and incubators in direct collaboration with private
investors.
¾ Re-organisation of the public research system
-
-
-
The priorities of the public research centres are redirected towards economic and
social development policy. The research mission of the centres supervised by the
GSRT is differentiated from that of the higher education institutes so as to be
complementary. The public research centres become more oriented in covering
the medium- and long-term needs of businesses and public organisations and
services and in creating new entrepreneurial initiatives. The average size of a
research unit in the public research centres increases while the number of
research units decreases, and the sources are focused on priorities of international
scientific and technological interest and of national or local economic and social
utility.
At the same time, the selective development of research units is promoted:
merging of research centres for marine research, development of a Centre for
Information and Communication Technologies Applications in southern Greece,
convergence of the structures and objectives of the biology institutes in Attica.
University-based research is primarily supported for educational purposes and
the training of new researchers, as well as for the creation of reference points for
international research. Exploitation of research results is supported either by
rendering services or with the creation of business incubators.
36
-
Effectiveness in the administration and management of the research centres is
improved to assist the research teams in meeting the complex needs of the new
decade.
¾ “Opening up” of the Greek research system (both public and private) to the
international arena
-
Increase in international collaborations of the public research centres and
enterprises with foreign counterparts will make research activities more
productive according to the criteria imposed by the globalised economy.
The constant qualitative improvement of Greek participants in the EU
Framework Programmes and the increased participation in European and
International Organisations programmes (ESA, ESF, etc.), as well as the
“opening up” of the national programmes for international collaboration, will
not only improve the level of research, but they will also make it attractive for
investors.
¾ Technological infrastructure for the implementation of science and technology
-
-
The continuous modernisation of electronic networks, access procedures in
networks, databases and data banks, as well as the improvement of other
infrastructures (buildings, equipment, etc.) are necessary prerequisites for
ensuring the entire system’s competitiveness.
Upgrading the system for patenting or acquiring other industrial property
titles, and the facilitation of access for researchers and the public in patenting
and intellectual property rights information also form important conditions
for the transition from an agricultural and trade economy to an economy
based on knowledge and technological innovation.
¾ Focus of public and private research and technology investments on selected
priorities
-
-
Focusing of public funding on sectors that combine the national economic
and social interests with the international scientific and technological trends
and perspectives is a condition without which no investment can be
successful.
The creation of a steady organisational infrastructure for technology foresight
activities and the selection of priorities with social participation and
consensus will contribute to increasing the credibility of the process and the
social acceptance of the priorities chosen.
¾ Increase of the gross domestic expenditure in R&D
-
Increase of the gross domestic expenditure in R&D (GERD) to 1.5% of
GDP in 2010 with industry participation reaching 40% of GERD. This
increase is directly related to the decisions of the European Council in Lisbon
and Barcelona that GERD should reach 3% of GDP in the EU by 2010 with
industry’s participation covering 67% of GERD.
37
Thematic priority areas of research and technology policy
The thematic priorities of the research and technology policy are based on two main
policy tools which guide the research activities:
¾ The Concerted Programmes under the Operational Programme for Competitiveness
and the Operational Programme for the Information Society (2002-2006).
¾ The 6th Framework Programme as well as the programmes of the International
Organisations (European Space Agency, etc.) 2002-2006.
At the regional level, the Ministry of Development promotes the creation of
technological innovation hubs, around which efforts will be focused to create economies
of scale and scope, thus making selected regions attractive to investors in knowledge
intensive sectors. These regions have to be “visible” worldwide, showcasing available
human resources, organisations and their infrastructure, so as to attract investors from
the most developed areas of Europe, Asia and the US. (Source: GSRT)
5.6 Women and Science
Although the female scientific personnel in Greece has the same rights with the male one
and, clearly, there is not any gender discrimination, the scientific labour market, as in
most European countries, remains male-dominated. Due to this, Greece supports
Commissions’ overall effort to encourage and empower female scientists to be more
active in order to obtain a better professional career in the research area through a range
of different activities.
5.6.1 The Greek Association of Women Engineers
The Greek Association of women engineers encourage
females’ research careers, by aiming to promote an equal
opportunity framework between men and women in
education, work and life in general.
URL: www.edem-net.gr
5.6.2 Research Center for Gender Equality
The Research Centre for Gender Equality (KETHI), a legal entity
under private law, was founded in 1994. The main office is in
Athens and there are four branches in Thessaloniki, Patras,
Heraklion and Volos. KETHI is supervised and funded by the
General Secretariat for Equality of the Ministry of the Interior,
Public Administration and Decentralisation. The basic aims of URL: www.kethi.gr
KETHI’s activities have a dual focus: to conduct social research Email: [email protected]
on gender equality issues and to improve women’s status and Tel: + 30 210 3311685-7
Fax: + 30 210 3311779
enable their advancement in all areas of political, economic and
social life, within the framework of the policies defined by the General Secretariat for
Equality.
6
38
5.7 The Greek Public Research System
Figure 5. 2 The Greek Public Research System
Source: GSRT
39
5.7.1 Research centres
- General Secretariat for Research and Technology
The General Secretariat for Research and Technology (GSRT) of the
Ministry of Development:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Supports through its programmes, the research activities of
both the country's scientific research institutes and those of its
productive industry, focusing on areas that are important for
URL: www.gsrt.gr
Tel: +30 210 7458000
Promotes the transfer and dissemination of advanced technologies throughout
the country's productive sector, thus ensuring early utilisation of the results of
research activity.
Contributes to the reinforcement of the country’s research manpower.
Represents Greece in relevant institutions of the European Union, thus bringing
the country's research and technology activities into line with the requirements of
the international community.
Promotes cooperation with other countries and international organisations on
research and technology issues.
Establishes new institutes and technological centres in support of sectors of high
priority for the development of the Greek economy.
Supervises underwrites the fixed costs of, and otherwise provides support for 21
of the country's best-known research and technological centres.
Supports the dissemination of research and technology information throughout
the country and internationally by means of advanced ΙΤ systems and networks.
Encourages activities aimed at raising awareness of the general public about
research and technology issues.
40
5.7.1.1 Research Bodies supervised by GSRT
Table 5. 4 Research Bodies supervised by GSRT
Research Bodies
National Observatory of Athens
URL: www.noa.gr
Hellenic PASTEUR
Institute
URL: www.pasteur.gr
The mission of NOA is stated to be "the
observation, the collection of relevant data and
the research of the stellar and solar space, the
atmospheric environment, the crust and the
interior of the earth".
A principal target for HPI is the
exploitation of research findings
towards the development of
novel therapeutic approaches, the
production of new generation
vaccines and reliable diagnostic
methods
with
increased
specificity and sensitivity.
National Centre for Scientific Research
''DEMOKRITOS''
URL: www.demokritos.gr
The National Hellenic
Research Foundation
URL: www.eie.gr
Its mission is to conduct high caliber basic and
applied research, to develop know-how and
contribute to the socioeconomic development
of the country, to offer high technology services
to the public and private sectors, to train young
scientists in advanced technology and new fields
of research and to undertake the coordination of
programs of national importance.
Its purpose is the organisation,
finance and support of high-level
research
projects
in
the
humanities and the natural
sciences.
Biomedical Sciences Research Center
''Alexander Fleming''
URL: www.fleming.gr
Centre for Research and
Technology (C.E.R.T.H.)
URL: www.certh.gr
The Center’s mission is to be actively involved
in international collaborations and trains Greek
and international graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
Certh was created with the goal
of developing new products and
services with economic and social
impact
Foundation for Research and
Technology - Hellas (FORTH)
URL: www.forth.g
Centre for Renewable
Energy Sources
URL: www.cres.gr
FORTH, recognizing the importance of science,
technology, and innovation in today's world, is
actively pursuing: high quality basic research,
development
of
innovative
technology,
collaborations with industrial partners within
and outside Greece, creation of spin-off
companies, promotion of specialized services
and products, development of Science and
Technology Parks, educational activities in
collaboration with Universities, publication of
textbooks and monographs, on the job training.
Its main goal is the promotion of
RES/RUE/ES applications at a
national and international level, as
well as the support of related
activities taking into
consideration the environmental
impacts, in the energy supply and
use.
National Documentation Centre
URL: www.ekt.gr
The National Documentation Centre (EKT) is
the backbone organisation of the national
infrastructure for scientific documentation,
online information and support services on
science, research and technology.
Source: GSRT
41
5.7.1.2 Technological Bodies supervised by GSRT
Table 5. 5 Technological Bodies supervised by GSRT
Technological Bodies
Greek Atomic Energy Commission
(GAEC)
URL: www.eeae.g
Industrial Property
Organisation (OBI)
URL: www.obi..gr
GAEC the competent authority, responsible
for matters concerning nuclear energy, nuclear
technology and radiological protection from
ionizing radiation and from artificially
produced non ionizing radiation.
OBI is the only legally qualified
institution for the protection of
inventions
and industrial
designs. It also provides
technological
information
from
worldwide
patent
databases
Aquaculture Center of Acheloos
(ACEA)
URL: www.ichthica.com
Matallurgical Industrial
Research & Technology
Development Center
(MIRTEC)
URL: www.evetam.gr
The main mission of the Center is the
function and the management of a pilot fish
aquaculture unit very close to the estuary of
Acheloos river, about 20Km west of
Neochori, which is the base of the Company
at the area of Mesolongi.
Ceramics and Refractories
Technological Development
Company (CERECO S.A.)
URL: www.cereco.gr
Its aim is to contribute to the technological
development in the field by providing
scientific and technical support to the
ceramics industry. The state as well as sixteen
of the largest Greek companies involved in
the ceramic sector share its capital.
The
reason
for
its
establishment have been the
application and exploitation of
the scientific research and
technology results, by supplying
high
quality
technological
services to the metallurgy and
metallic materials sectors.
Food Industrial Research
and Technological
Development Company
(ETAT S.A.)
URL: www.etat.gr
The company's activities aim at
improving the competitiveness
of Greek industries and of food
products.
Clothing Textile & Fibre Technology
Develoment Company (CLOTEFI)
URL: www.etakei.gr
Greek Research &
Technology (GRNET)
URL: www.grnet.gr
Its mission is to pursue the application and
utilization of the results of applied and
technological research, and to provide
scientific and technological services to
businesses and organizations in the textile and
clothing sector. CLOTEFI’s operations are
not financed by the state. The company’s
income is derived from service provision and
from the implementation of research
programs, undertaken through competitive
procedures.
GRNET’s mission is to provide
national and international high
capacity
interconnection
services to the Greek Academic
and Research community,
fulfilling their continuously
increasing needs for high
quality Internet type corenetworking services.
Source: GSRT
42
5.7.2 Educational institutions
The Higher Education Sector contributes dynamically to the overall RTD performance.
In fact, the Greek Universities show significant research performance both in projects
aiming at strengthening the competitiveness of Greek enterprises, as well as projects
addressing social issues. R&D expenditure of the higher education institutes presents a
steady upward trend and expressed as a percentage of GDP has been steadily increasing
since 1993 reaching 0.33% in 1999.
5.7.2.1 Universities
- Agricultural University of Athens (AUA)
The AUA is a development of the Higher Agricultural School of Athens (Greek acronym
AGSA), whose history in effect began in 1920. The AUA provides agricultural training at
undergraduate and postgraduate level which covers all sectors of agricultural activity. Its
educational programmes combine theoretical teaching with lab work and practical
exercises deriving from the research experience of staff and relating to problems and
prospects for Greek agriculture. Its departments are Plant Production, Animal
Production, Agricultural Biotechnology, Agricultural Economics and Development,
Exploitation of Natural Resources, Agricultural Engineering, Food Science and
Technology.
URL: www.aua.gr
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
The University of Thessaloniki was established by means of law 3341/1925 during the
period of the first Hellenic Republic. Today the Aristotle University has 44 departments
covering the entire range of humanities and positive sciences and a plethora of other
units (educational resource units, laboratories, reading rooms, libraries, clinics, etc.)
which not only make the largest University in terms of staff, students and facilities in the
country, but also provide it with influence extending beyond the national borders.
URL: www.auth.gr
- Athens School of Fine Arts
The Athens School of Fine Arts (Greek acronym ASKT) was established in January 1837
and since 1930 has been operating as an independent university level institute. Its goal is
to develop the artistic skills of its students and provide them with the necessary
theoretical and practical knowledge about the visual arts via teaching and research and in
general to contribute to the social, cultural and economic development of the country.
URL: www.asfa.gr
- Athens University of Economics and Businesses
The Athens University of Economics and Business is a renowned centre of learning, well
known for the high performance of its educational staff, students and academic courses.
The Athens University of Economics and Business provides high-level education at
undergraduate and postgraduate level in various sectors such as the Economic Sciences,
Business Management and Administration, Business Research and Marketing, Finances
and Accounting, International and European Economic Studies, Information
Technology, Statistics, and so on. Over its 80 years of life, the vast majority of students
of economics and business studies in Greece have graduated from this University. It has
also played a significant role in the economic, political and social life of the country. The
objective of the university is not only to provide students with good knowledge of
theoretical principles and modern analytical tools but also to cultivate skills such as
personal initiative and critical thinking.
43
URL: www.aueb.gr
- Democritus University of Thrace
The Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH) was established in July 1973 by
Legislative Decree 87/73 and began operations in the academic year 1974-1975. It was
named “Democritus” in honour of the ancient Greek philosopher of that name who
came from the city of Abdira in Thrace. With its administrative seat in the city of
Komotini the DUTH operates with two schools and 18 departments in four cities in
Thrace: Komotini, Xanthi, Alexandroupoli and Orestiada. The DUTH covers a wide
range of scientific fields from the Polytechnic School, Medicine, Historical Studies, Law,
Education Sciences, and so on. This University plays an important role in supporting the
national and cultural physiognomy of the area of Thrace and contributes to the high level
of university studies in Greece. Thanks to the quality of its teaching and research, it has
ensured itself a place among the best Greek universities.
URL: www.duth.gr
- Harokopio University
The Harokopio University is based in Athens and represents the turning of P.
Harakopos’ vision into reality, who in the context of his intense social activity, was
particularly interested in education in the field of home economics and who ensured
financing and the construction of the University. The design and development of the
entire University is based on international standards and the education provided
combines theoretical teaching with lab work and practical exercise, aiming to implement
research experience in order to improve economic, cultural and social growth in the
country. The University has 3 departments, Home Economics and Ecology, Nutrition
Sciences and Geography. Since the academic year 2000-2001 it has been providing
specialized postgraduate courses in the field of Sustainable Development and Applied
Nutrition Sciences.
URL: www.hua.gr
- Hellenic Open University
The Hellenic Open University is an innovative institution in the chronicles of Greek
education. The mission of the Hellenic Open University is to provide undergraduate and
postgraduate education and training remotely by developing and using appropriate
educational material and teaching methods. The aims of the University include
promoting scientific research in the field of the remote transmission of knowledge.
URL: www.eap.gr
- Ionian University
The University of the Ionian was established in 1984 together with the Universities of
Thessaly and the Aegean and is seat is located on the island of Corfu. The University of
the Ionian consists of the following 4 departments, the Department of History, the
Department of Foreign Languages, Translation and Interpretation, the Department of
Music Studies (1992) and the Department of Librarian - Archivist Studies (1993).
URL: www.uion.edu.gr
- National Technical University of Athens
The National Technical University of Athens (NTUA) is the oldest and most renowned
educational institute in Greece in the field of technology and has contributed a great deal
to the scientific, technical and economic growth of the country since its establishment in
1836. It is also closely connected with the struggle of Greece for independence,
44
democracy and social progress. In 1873 it was installed in a group of buildings in the
centre of the capital, in what still remains a half finished building on Patission St. and was
named the National Metsovio Technical University in honor of its major benefactors, G.
Averof, N. Stounari sand E. Tositsas, whose hometown, Metsovo, a small historical town
in northwestern Greece, was the birthplace of many major, national benefactors. Apart
from undergraduate and postgraduate courses offered in its 9 academic departments, the
NTUA has 120 fully equipment laboratories and reading rooms with specialization in
individual scientific and technological subject areas.
URL: www.ntua.gr
- Panteion University
It was during the first quarter of the 20th century that the Panteion University,
specialized in social and political sciences, was established in Athens. In 1989 the school
was renamed as the Panteion University of Social and Political Sciences and includes the
following Departments: the Department of Political Science and History, the
Department of International and European Studies, the Public Administration
Department, the Sociology Department, the Economics and Regional Development
Department, the Communication and Mass Media Department, the Social Policy and
Social Anthropology Department, the Department of Psychology, the Law Department
and the Foreign Languages Department. There are also two research and training
institutes in operation at the University, the Regional Development Institute and the
International Relations Institute as well as 15 research centres. Since the academic year
1994-95 two postgraduate courses lasting for two years have been run. The first is the
postgraduate course in regional development which is run by the Urban and Regional
Development Department. The second is the postgraduate course in European Studies
run by the Political Science and International Studies Department.
URL: www.panteion.gr
- Technical University of Crete
The Technical University of Crete was established in Chania on the island of Crete in
1977 and opened its doors to its first students in 1984. The reason for its establishment
was to develop modern specializations in engineering, a groundbreaking move for
Greece, as well as to develop research in advanced technologies and linkage to these to
industrial and production units in the country. There are four engineering departments
within the Technical University of Crete (Electronic Engineering and Computer
Engineering, Mining Resources Engineering, Production and Management Engineering
and Environmental Engineering) and a general Department covering Mathematics,
Engineering, Physics, Chemistry and the Social Sciences. All departments have organized
postgraduate courses.
URL: www.tuc.gr
- University of Athens
Established on 3rd May 1837, the University of Athens was the first university not only
in the Greek State but in the entire Eastern Mediterranean. Today it is one of the largest
and most active universities in the country, with 6 schools (Theology, Philosophy,
Positive Sciences, Law, Politics and Economic sciences, Health Sciences) and 5
independent departments (the Methodology, History and Theory of Science,
Communication and Mass Media, Education and Preschool Education, Primary School
Education and Physical Education and Sports Departments). It provides education at
undergraduate and postgraduate level and hosts a large number of specialized research
labs and institutes.
45
URL: www.uoa.gr
- University of Crete
The University of Crete was established in 1973 and its schools and departments are
located in Rethymnon and Heraklion. The Departments of History-Archeology,
Philosophy and Social Sciences and Philology with many individual subject areas operate
in the city of Rethymnon. The School of Social Sciences includes the Departments of
Economics, Psychology, Sociology and Political Sciences while the School of Education
consists of the Departments of Primary Education and Preschool Education. In
Heraklion apart from the Medical Department, in the School of Sciences, the subjects of
Biology, Chemistry, Information Technology, Mathematics and Physics are taught.
Despite the fact that it is one of the newest universities, the University of Crete has
already carried out significant research and is intensely active in collaboration
programmes that other institutions and knowledge centres in Europe and internationally.
URL: www.uoc.gr
- University of Ioannina
The University of Ioannina is based in the town of Ioannina and is located on one of the
largest university campuses in Greece in terms of size. It is one of the most dynamic
universities in the country and provides education in the Philosophy, Medicine,
Education Science, Technology, Natural Resource Management and Business
Management, Economics and Art, with individual specialized departments in each
school. The University also provides undergraduate courses (Applied Agricultural
Ecology, Biochemistry and Cultural Science) and interdisciplinary postgraduate courses
(in Biotechnology, Electronic Technologies and Medieval Studies). With state-of-the-art
technical infrastructure and support facilities for its research work, the University also
hosts innovative research institutes such as the Institute of Biomedical Research and the
Institute of Transport and Telecommunications.
URL: www.uoi.gr
- University of Macedonia Economic and Social Science
Based in Thessaloniki, the University of Macedonia is specialized in economics and social
sciences and is one of the newest universities in Greece. It began in 1957 as the Higher
Industrial School of Thessaloniki with only two Departments, Economics and Business
Management but in 1990 it evolved into the University of Macedonia and today provides
studies in eight undergraduate courses (Economics, Business Management and
Administration, International and European Economics and Political Studies,
Accounting and Finance, Applied Computing, Education and Social Policy, Balkan,
Slavic and Eastern Studies and Music and Art) and 3 interdisciplinary postgraduate
courses (in Economic Sciences, Business Management and Information Technology
Systems), having managed to establish its name and a reputation as a high-quality
University within Greece, and in particular in the north in Greece. The University of
Macedonia provides high-level education combining integrated theoretical training with
the maximum possible practical implementation.
URL: www.uom.gr
- University of Patras
The University of Patra is the third largest University in Greece in terms of the number
of students, teaching and other staff and academic departments and is a dynamically
developing teaching and research centre. The 22 departments in operation within the
University Schools provide a large range of courses which lead to degrees or diplomas as
46
well as a large number of postgraduate courses which lead to postgraduate diplomas in
specialized field or to PhDs. There are also interdisciplinary and inter-varsity courses run
which likewise lead to master’s degrees or Ph.D.s. The University's five Schools are the
School of Positive Sciences, the Polytechnic School, the Health Sciences School,
Humanitarian Sciences, Economic Sciences and Management.
URL: www.upatras.gr
- University of Peloponnese
The University of the Peloponnese was founded in accordance with the law 13/2000. It
is located in Tripolis but other Faculties are in the process of being established in the
capitals of the rest prefectures of the District of the Peloponnese.
The University was inaugurated on 20th September 2002 by the Prime Minister Kostas
Simitis and started operating with the Department of Computer Science and Technology
and the Department of Telecommunications Science and Technology which belong to
the Faculty of Science and Technology. The aim of the establishment and operation of
the University of the Peloponnese is the contribution to the enhancement of higher
education in the Greek province, targeting at high standards in curriculum, research and
teaching, so that the demands of a University at a national, European and International
level are met. The University of the Peloponnese addresses Greece and the Greek
community, aspiring to develop a strong bond with the Greek homogeny and become a
source of cooperation and spiritual creativity for the Greeks all around the world.
URL: www.uop.gr
- University of Piraeus
The University of Piraeus was established in 1938 as the industrial Studies School by the
Hellenic Association of Industries and Light Industries which in collaboration with the
Association of Greek Public Limited Companies established the school for the
economic, legal and technical training of industrial executives. Today it is a modern and
flexible University which provides high-level theoretical and practical training in the
sectors of Economic Science, Business Management and Administration, Statistics and
Insurance, Financing and Bank Management, Technology and Production Systems,
Shipping Studies, Computing, Education Technology, and International and European
Studies.
URL: www.unipi.gr
- University of the Aegean
The University of the Aegean is one of the newest and most modern universities in the
country. It consists of 17 departments in the basic fields of Social Sciences, Management
Sciences, Positive Sciences, Greek and Mediterranean Studies, the Graphic Arts and
Systems Designs and Maritime Sciences. The University schools are located on five
islands in the Aegean Sea, Lesbos, Hios, Samos, Syros and Rhodes and it is an innovative
University/network organized in accordance with the scattered structure of the Greek
Archipelago. The main feature of the Departments of the University of the Aegean is the
development of new subject areas depending on the needs of modern Greek and global
society.
URL: www.aegean.gr
- University of Thessaly
The University of Thessaly is one of the newest Greek universities and operates in both
Volos and Larisa. It was established in 1984 and began operations in 1988 with three
departments. Today there are now 16 undergraduate departments, three elective courses
47
and three postgraduate courses of studies. Following recent reorganization, the
University of Thessaly consists of the School of Humanities with four departments, the
Polytechnic School with five departments, the Agricultural Science School with two
departments, the Health Science School with three departments while there is also an
independent Department of Physical Education and Sports and the Economic Sciences
Department. The University also houses many specialized scientific laboratories dealing
in various fields of research.
URL: www.uth.gr
- University of Western Macedonia
The University, by nature, is founded at the crossroads of research, education and
innovation and it constitutes a pivot for the society and the economy of knowledge.
The development of structures for the exploitation of research products, the diffusion of
culture of new technologies and innovation, the creation of centers of certification of
local products, the promotion of the region's assets, the diffusion of ecological
conscience, the elevation and the respect of the cultural wealth, reflect the activity of the
University of Western Macedonia, a region with long history, many capabilities,
remarkable human potential and guardian of the diachronic values of our culture.
URL:www.uowm.gr
5.7.2.2 Technological Educational Institutes (TEI)
- Technological Educational Institution of Athens
Athens TEI provides wide-ranging education in a large number of scientific and
technological subject areas. It consists of five large schools with their individual
departments: the School of Technological Applications consisting of the Departments of
Naval Architecture, Computing, Energy Techniques, and so on, the School of
Management and Economics with the Departments of Librarian Skills, Business
Administration, Tourism, the School of Health and Welfare Professions with various
specializations in Medical Sectors, Public Health, (Pre-School Education) Social Work,
Nursing, etc., the School of Food Technology and Nutrition with the Departments of
Enology, Beverage Technology and Food Technology and the School of Graphic Arts
and Artistic Studies with the Departments of Graphic Design, Interior Design,
Conservation of Antiquities and Works of Art, Technology and the Graphic Arts and
Photography.
URL: www.teiath.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Epirus
Epirus TEI consists of the Agriculture Technology School (the Plant Production
Department, the Animal Production Department, the Horticulture and Landscape
Architecture Department, etc.), the School of Management and Economics (the
Information Technology & Management Departments, the Tourism Department, etc.),
the Health and Welfare Professions School (Nursing, Speech Therapy, etc.) and the
Music Technology School (the Department of Popular and Traditional Music and the
Musical Instruments Technology Department).
URL: www.teiep.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Crete
With annexes in the Prefectures of Heraklion, Hania, Rethymnon and Lasithi, the Crete
TEI consists of four Schools with individual Departments which represent many fields
48
of knowledge, such as the Technological Applications School, the Management and
Economics School, the Agriculture Technology School, and the Health Professions and
Services School. The TEI also participates in many European programmes.
URL: www.teiher.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Thessaloniki
The Thessaloniki TEI has been in operation for 30 years now providing technological
education via its five Schools: the School of Management and Economics, the School of
Health and Welfare Professions, the Agriculture Technology School, the Technological
Applications School and the Food Science and Nutrition School.
URL: www.teith.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Kalamata
The Kalamata TEI has been operating as an independent tertiary level educational
institute since September 1990 and is the only such tertiary level institute in the
Peloponnese. In structural terms it consists of two schools, the Agriculture Technology
School and the Management and Economics School. Since the academic year 2001 a
foreign languages and physical education centre has also been in operation. There is also
an independent course entitled Organized Agriculture Technologies.
URL: www.teikal.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Kavala
The Kavala TEI provides training and scientific education via the Management and
Economics School, the Technological Applications School and the Forestry Department
which is housed in an Annex in Drama. As a tertiary level educational institute it actively
participates in a wide range of European Union programmes and its involvement in
applied research programmes is impressive.
URL: www.teikav.edu.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Kozani
The Western Macedonia TEI with annexes in Florina and Kastoria is the only tertiary
level technological education institute in the region of Western Macedonia. The TEI was
established in 1976 and consists of: a) two Schools based in Kozani, the Technological
Applications School and the Management and Economics School, b) the Florina Annex
based in the town of Florina where the Agriculture Technology School operates, and c)
the Kastoria Annex based in the town of Annex where two independent departments,
International Trade and Public Relations and Communication operate. URL:
www.teikoz.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Lamia
The Lamia TEI was established in September 1994. It is based in Lamia, administrative
capital of the prefecture of Fthiotida where the Technological Applications and Health
and Welfare Professions Schools are in operation. It also has two annexes, one in
Karpenisi, administrative capital of the prefecture of Evrytania where the Forestry
Department operates and one in Amfissa, administrative capital of the prefecture of
Fokida, where the Tourism Department is in operation.
URL: www.teilam.gr
49
- Technological Educational Institution of Larissa
The Larissa TEI consists of four schools: the Technological Applications School, the
Management and Economics School, the Health and Welfare Professions School and the
Agriculture Technology School.
URL: www.teilar.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Messolonghi
The Messolonghi TEI was established in 1983. It consists of the following schools and
departments: the Agriculture Technology School (Pisciculture and Fisheries Department,
the Greenhouse Cultivation and Horticulture Departments, the Agricultural Machinery
and Irrigation Department) and the Management and Economics School (Accounting
Department, Cooperative Organization Department and the Applied Computing
Department). The TEI is housed in a series of privately owned buildings on a site
covering 800,000m2 located approximately 4 km from the centre of the town. The
building facilities include halls, labs, an amphitheatre, a multipurpose hall with seating
capacity for 800, administrative offices, outdoor basketball, volleyball and tennis courts, a
track and football pitch.
URL: www.teimes.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Patras
Patra TEI was established in 1983 and provides education focused on applied research
and technology. In structural terms it consists of the School of Technological
Applications (the Electronics Department, the Engineering Department, the Civil
Engineering Infrastructure Works Department), the Management and Economics School
(the Business Administration Department, Accounting Department, Tourism
Department, Business Planning and Information Systems Department) and the School of
Health and Welfare Professions (the Social Work Department, the Nursing Department
and the Speech Therapy Department).
URL: www.teipat.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Piraeus
The Piraeus TEI provides training in a large range of applied sciences such as Electronic
Systems, Automation, Electronics, Electrical Engineering, Engineering, Mathematics,
Textiles, Physics/Chemistry, Civil Engineering Works, Business Administration and
Accounting. It also participates in various European programmes and organizes a range
of postgraduate courses.
URL: www.teipir.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Serres
The two schools operating within the Serres TEI with their various departments are the
Technological Applications School consisting of the Engineering and Civil Engineering
Works Departments and the Management and Economics School consisting of the
Departments of Accounting and Business Administration. The operation of all
departments is supported by the Foreign Languages and Physical Education Department.
URL: www.teiser.gr
- Technological Educational Institution of Chalkida
The Chalkida TEI is the only tertiary level education institute in the wider region of Evia.
It consists of the Management and Economics School with the Departments of Business
Administration and Accounting and the Technological Applications School with the
Departments of Electrical Engineering, Engineering, Automation and the General
50
Department covering the Positive Sciences. The Chalkida TEI also participates in
European programmes and scientific conferences and houses state-of-the-art, fully
equipped laboratories where research programmes are carried out.
URL: www.teihal.gr
5.8 Innovation Relay Centres (IRC)
Innovation Relay Centres in Greece provide business services, aiming to facilitate
transnational technology transfer. The services offered by the Greek IRC to SMEs have
many similarities with other IRC operating within Europe, including primarily assistance
in technology-partner finding, assistance in accessing innovation financing, organisation
of technology brokerage events, expert guidance in other key issues and helping to
promote or facilitate innovation and technology transfer.
- The Hellenic Project for Wider Application of R&D (PRAXI)
Hellenic Project for Wider Application of R&D was created to
provide bridge between Research and Industry in Greece.
Since 1991 HELP-FORWARD offers Technology Transfer
brokerage services to Greek companies and Research
Institutions and provides information, mediation and advisory
services to all stages of Technology Transfer and Exploitation
of Research Results:
URL: www.help-forward.gr
Tel. +30 210 3607690
Fax. +30 210 3636109
funding opportunities identification,
detection of technological needs,
technology watch and evaluation,
partner search
technology transfer negotiations support.
HELP-FORWARD Network operates as a distinct entity, under the auspices of the
Federation of Greek Industries (FGI), the Federation of Industries of Northern Greece
(FING) and the Foundation for Research and Technology - Hellas. HELP-FORWARD
is administered by FORTH, operates as a non-profit private organisation and draws its
funds from the European Commission (Innovation Programme) and from services to its
clients. HELP-FORWARD is one of the 76 Innovation Relay Centres in Europe. (Source:
HELP-FORWARD)
- The Hellenic Innovation Relay Centre (HIRC)
HIRC functions as a one-stop-shop for questions and issues
related to innovation and technology transfer. More specifically,
HIRC's mission is the provision of support for the transfer of
technology to SMEs and the demonstration of best practices for
the fostering of companies' innovativeness. Thereby, HIRC:
supports the transnational cooperation between Greek SMEs and
RTD organizations, supports the implementation of innovative
technologies and know-how to the SMEs and helps SMEs for the
development of technology skills and competencies.
51
URL: www.hirc.gr
Tel. +30 210 7273922
Fax +30 210 7246824
HIRC's objectives are:
- The innovative technology transfer from and toward Greek companies and
research organizations
- The constant awareness of Greek SMEs for the available technologies in
national and European level
- The support of SMEs competencies of cooperation with "technology
producers" in European level (Source: HIRC)
5.9 Science and Technology Parks
There are five Science and Technology Parks in Greece.
- Science and Technology Park of Crete
Science and Technology Park of Crete (STEP-C) established in
Heraklion - Crete operates under the supervision of Foundation for
Research and Technology- Hellas (FORTH).
URL: www.stepc.gr
Tel: +30 2810 391908
Fax: +30 2810 391906
- Thessaloniki Technology Park
Thessaloniki Technology Park (TTP) was established in 1990, by the
Chemical Process Engineering Research Institute (CPERI), one of
the Institutes of FORTH to meet the need for a greater exchange of
ideas, people and facilities between universities and industry.
- Science and Technology Park of Epirus
URL: www.thestep.gr
Tel: +30 2310 498200
Fax: +30 2310 498 280
Science and Technology Park of Epirus was established in 1999 by
the University of Ioannina and the Region of Ioannina.
URL: www.step-epirus.gr
Tel: +30 26510 97650
Fax: +30 26510 97673
- Scientific Park of Patra
A 15 years Scientific Park in the city of Patra.
URL: www.psp.org.gr
Tel: +30 2610 997 295
Fax: +30 2610 994106
6
52
- Technology Park of Thessaly
The Technology Park of Thessaly (TE.PA.THE.) was established
in December 2001 by the Metallurgical Industrial Research &
Technology Centre S.A. (MIRTEC) and 38 other shareholders
mainly agencies and companies of the region of Thessaly.
URL: www.tepathe.gr
Tel: +30 24210 78299
Fax: +30 24210 78298
6
5.10 Scholarships and Funding in Greece
As discussed before, the main sources of funding for research in Greece are two:
Public and the private funding.
Budget appropriations refer to amounts coming from the state budget on a regular
annual basis and to a lesser extend from the programme of public investments, involving
financing, running costs of universities and government research centres.
Structural funds come under the Community Support Frameworks and they are managed
by the Ministry of Economy. The General Secretariat for Research and Technology, as a
beneficiary of the CSF, announces programmes and funds research projects, which are
carried out in Greece as joint ventures by universities, research centres, businesses or
individual researchers, as well as research activities within the framework of intergovernmental agreements with other countries.
Greek research teams take part in European R&D programmes (mainly the Framework
Programmes of the European Commission) in collaboration with equivalent bodies and
businesses from other countries in the European Union.
More specifically, the following Greek bodies fund researchers’ activities providing
fellowships and grants:
Table 5. 6 Fellowships and grants
"Alexander S. Onassis" Public Benefit Foundation: http://www.onassis.gr/english/scholars/foreign.html
AIT-Athens Information Technology: http://www.ait.edu.gr
American School of Classical Studies at Athens:
http://www.ascsa.edu.gr/fellowship/AdvancedFellowshipnotice.pdf
Marie-Curie Fellowships for PhD Students in "Atom/Molecule Laser Interaction - Physics and
Applications (ALPHA)"
Marie-Curie Fellowships for PhD Students in "Ultrashort Pulse Lasers for the Study and Micro/Nano
processing of novel Materials & Structures (EULANOMS)"
Ministry of Foreign Affairs - Foreign Policy: http://www.mfa.gr/english/foreign_policy/educational
Ministry of National Education & Religious AffairsDir. of Studies & Students Welfare: http://www.ypepth.gr/en_ec_page1134.htm
Ministry of National Education and Religious Affairs - Dir. of International Relations in Education:
http://www.ypepth.gr/docs/2004_in_rel.doc
Polymer patterns for the formation of membrane arrays: http://www.imbb.forth.gr/people/gizeli/np.html
Scholarships for postgrads in "Destruction of the spin-gap in low dimensional materials"
Scholarships for postgrads in "Pressure and field-induced control of the magnetism in vanadium oxide
bronzes: an insight into the origin of charge ordering"
Study of the mechanism of interaction of antimicrobial peptides with the cell membrane using biosensors:
http://www.imbb.forth.gr/people/gizeli/np.html
The Bodossaki Foundation: http://www.bodossaki-foundation.gr/index-en.htm
The Fulbright Foundation in Greece: http://www.fulbright.gr/main22.html
The State Scholarships Foundation - I.K.Y.: http://www.iky.gr/scholarships/allodapoi/defaultenglish.htm
53
Table 5. 7 European and International funding Bodies
EUROPEAN
EUROPA-The Researcher's Mobility Portal:
http://europa.eu.int/eracareers/index_en.cfm
CORDIS Research Openings:
http://www.cordis.lu/research_openings/fellowships.htm
INTERNATIONAL
Monbukagakusho (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and
Technology, Government of Japan: MEXT):
http://www.gr.emb-japan.go.jp/culture/monbukagakusho.htm
EORTC: http://www.eortc.be/Jobs/FellowShip2.htm
International Education Financial Aid - College Scholarship Search:
http://www.iefa.org/search.php
54
Employment in Greece
6.1 Introduction
This section provides information about the conditions and
status of employment in Greece. The details provided are
definitely useful not only for the researchers but also for their
family members who tend to work in Greece.
Section
6
6.2 National Action Plan for Employment 2004
The National Action Plan for Employment 2004 which is a strategic plan of action
covering the entire period from 2003 to 2006 is available in PDF format at:
http://europa.eu.int/comm/employment_social/employment_strategy/nap_2004/nap2
004el_en.pdf
6.3 The Labour Market in Greece
The following figure presents the labour market in Greece per region
Figure 6. 1 Labour Market in Greece
Available Regions
1. Anatoliki Makedonia, Thraki
http://europa.eu.int/eures/main.jsp?catId=12&acro=
lmi&lang=en&countryId=GR&regionId=GR-1
2. Kentriki Makedonia
http://europa.eu.int/eures/main.jsp?catId=12&acro
=lmi&lang=en&countryId=GR&regionId=GR-1
3. Dytiki Makedonia
4. Ipeiros
5. Thessalia
6. Ionia Nisia
7. Sterea Ellada
8. Attiki
9. Dytiki Ellada
10. Peloponnisos
11. Voreio Aigaio
12. Notio Aigaio
13. Kriti
Source: The European Job Mobility Portal
55
6.3.1 Labour Regulations
The Ministry of Employment and Social Protection is responsible for employment and
labour issues.
URL: www.ypakp.gr
- Getting a Professional License
Information regarding how to obtain a professional licence in a number of different
businesses is provided by the website of the Citizen Service Centres at:
http://www.kep.gov.gr/multilang/categories.asp?subDccID=000000000000097.EN&D
ccID=000000000000096.EN
- Institute of Labour-Greek General Confederation of Labour
The Institute of Labour of the Greek General Confederation of Labour established in
December 1990 provides employment information.
URL: www.inegsee.gr
Tel: +30 210 3304469-74
Fax: +30 210 3304452
- Immigration Guide on Work Rights
The Institute of Labour of the Greek General Confederation of Labour offers a range of
different formal documentations regarding the rights at work, including laws, regulations
for national and European citizens etc.
6.3.2 Finding work in Greece
The Greek Manpower Employment Organisation and the Recruitment Offices are the
most suitable bodies to contact in case you wish to receive some help on how to find a
job in Greece. Also, advertisements in magazines and newspapers appear to be useful for
finding a job.
6.3.2.1 Greek Manpower Employment Organisation
The Manpower Employment Organisation (OAED) is a legal entity
subject to public law, supervised by the Ministry of Labour and Social
Affairs and administrated by a Government and Administration Board.
OAED takes action in the following sectors:
•
•
URL: www.oaed.gr
Tel: +30 210 9989000
Fax: 210-9989500
the one of VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE of the manpower by its specialized
Executives and counselors about the professional alternatives offered,
the one of VOCATIONAL TRAINING of the manpower which aims at the
-
Creation of specialised manpower,
Transition from education and Vocational training to the production
procedure.
6.3.2.2 Recruitment Offices
The number of the recruitment agencies, providing information regarding the demand in
the Greek labour market tends to increase during the last years. The majority of them are
on the internet.
56
The Tax System in Greece
7.1 Introduction to the Greek Tax System
According to the Greek Tax System, if you stay and work in the
country you have to pay taxes. However, you may be eligible for
certain tax allowances, depending on your family situation,
which are taken into account when calculating your taxable
Section
7
income, as well as the amount of tax you are liable to pay. If you are employed, your
employer will deduct income tax from your wages, daily allowances or other
remuneration. The amount is imputed to your total tax bill for the year, which is
calculated on the basis of your yearly income tax return. If more tax has been withheld
than is in fact owed by you, you will be rebated the difference.
Your yearly income tax return should be sent to the Public Financial Offices (DOY) by 1
March of the tax year in question (in exceptional cases by 1 April, 16 April or 2 May for
certain types of income explicitly referred to in tax law). You will be informed between
May and June of the amount of tax that you have been assessed to pay. Married couples
must file a joint tax return in which the tax, charges and contributions are calculated
separately for each spouse. Husbands are obliged to submit a tax return for their wives.
Another important issue you should be ware of is that Greece has signed treaties for
avoiding double taxation on income with all other Member States except Ireland.
Further information: www.ypetho.gr
http://europa.eu.int/youreurope/nav/en/citizens/factsheets/gr/taxes/taxation/en.html
(Source: Europa, Information for Citizens and Ministry of Economy and Finance)
Ministry of Economy and Finance provides all the appropriate details for the current
Greek taxation.
URL: www.ypetho.gr
- General Secretariat for Information Systems
General Secretariat for Information Systems which runs under the supervision of the
Ministry of Economy and Finance provides citizens, businesses and public with eservices regarding taxes.
URL: www.e-oikonomia.gr
Tel: +30 210 4802552
- TAXIS net (in Greek only)
Provides Financial E-Services
URL: www.taxisnet.gr
7.2 Personal Income Tax
Personal income tax matters are regulated by Legislative Decree 3323/1955, as amended
by subsequent legislation, and Law 2065/92.
7.3 Legal Persons Taxation
The taxation of legal persons is regulated by the provisions of Law 3843/58, as amended
by Law 2065/92. Tax is assessed on the net income (from all sources) acquired by all
legal persons. The income of companies limited by shares is taxed before the distribution
of profits at a single rate of 35% and no other charge is levied. However, income from
57
the real estate of legal persons is subject to an additional tax, assessed at a rate of 3% of
total gross annual income.
7.4 Business Taxation
Also liable to tax are general and limited partnerships, associations of civil law engaged in
business or exercising a profession, civil associations of a profit-making or non-profitmaking nature, participating companies and joint ventures (of article 2, par. 2 of the
Code of Books and Documents). Their net profits are taxed at a rate of 35%, after
deduction of profits which are not subject to tax (or which are taxed separately), as well
as of profits from the dividends of Greek companies limited by s hares (societies
anonymes) or mutual funds, while in the case of general and limited partnerships, after
deduction of the business fees of up to 3 general partners (those with the highest
percentages of participation).
7.5 Tax exemptions
Information for tax exemptions is provided by the
Ministry of Economy and Finance or the DOY
you have registered with.
58
Inventory of Taxes in
Greece
URL:
http://europa.eu.int/com
m/taxation_customs/resou
rces/documents/tax_inven
tory_18gr.pdf
The Health System in
Greece
8.1 Introduction to the National Health System
Issues of health and general well being are of a great
importance for everyone. Therefore, in order for the
researchers to be aware with the national health insurance, the
Chapter
8
medical treatment options and other relevant topics, general aspects of the Greek Health
System are described. The Greek Health Care System can be characterised as a mixed
system: the health care branches of the various social insurance funds co-exist with the
National Health System (ESY- Ethniko Systima Ygeias).
ESY established in 1983 guarantees free health care for all residents of Greece. The
system covers the entire Greek population, without any special entitlement condition,
regardless of professional category or region. Health care services are also provided to
EU and non-EU citizens on the basis of multilateral or bilateral agreements.
Furthermore, within the ESY context, primary health care services are provided through
rural health centres and provincial surgeries in rural areas, the outpatient departments of
regional and district hospitals, the polyclinics of the social insurance institutions and
specialist in urban areas. Secondary care is provided by public hospitals, private for-profit
hospitals and clinics or hospitals owned by social insurance funds. In general, if a
foreigner is working in Greece and pays social security contributions, he/she is being
allowed to receive a medical card and get medical treatment and free hospitalisation.
Researchers from EU are advised to contact the Health Service Organisation in their
country to get the necessary series E documents, namely E111, which offers the access to
free treatment in a public hospital.
8.2 Medical Treatment Options
8.2.1 Emergencies
Always keep in mind that whenever you need emergency treatment, it can be obtained
through the emergency departments at major hospitals (see hospitals and clinics).
Ambulances (EKAV) provide immediate medical attention and emergency transport to
hospitals, free of charge to people who have registered with the ESY (Emergency Tel:
166).
8.2.2 Medication
Medicines are available from the chemist shops (pharmacies) divided in two main
categories depending on whether or not a prescription is required.
In case you need a medicine available only with a prescription, public or private doctors
will consider your situation and provide you with the prescription in order to be allowed
to buy the appropriate medicine from the pharmacy.
Additionally, you should be aware that if you have a health care card given by the
appropriate National Insurance Fund, you will pay a reduced price for prescription
medication.
Further information:
National Organization for Medicines
URL: www.eof.gr
Tel: +30 210 6507200
Fax:+30 210 6545535
59
8.2.3 Hospitals and Clinics
- Public Hospitals and Clinics
Public hospitals and clinics differ in terms of size and specialisation and, in general, are
very well equipped, especially in the major cities. Located throughout Greece, provide a
free of charge wide range of high quality medical care for patients. These can include
services such as emergency care, surgery, cardiology, radiology, etc. Smaller public
hospitals, usually established in smaller cities or villages, may not offer all medical
services. However, if the treatment you need is not available you will be referred to
another hospital. Ministry of Health and social solidarity provides a list with the Greek
hospitals.
URL: www.mohaw.gr/gr/ygeia/links/hospitals
URL: www.xo.gr/results.jsp
- Private Hospitals and Clinics
Private hospitals and clinics are usually located in big villages and cities. These hospitals
usually provide a number of in-hospital services for patients, similar to those offered by
public. In case you need medical treatment and choose to go into a private clinic, it is
advisable to join a private health insurance fund to help with your costs, as ESY tends
not to cover the cost of your private hospital accommodation.
URL: www.mohaw.gr/gr/ygeia/links/hospitals
8.2.4 Doctors
If you need a doctor and it is not an emergency, you can go to a family doctor. You may
choose your own doctor -specialisation- from a list provided when you registered with
ESY. List with doctors throughout Greece provided by the Greek Yellow Pages
8.2.5 Dentists
You should register with ESI in order to pay reduced price for public dentist services.
However, there are private dentists who will charge a fee for their service. List with
dentists throughout Greece provided by the Greek Yellow Pages
8.3 Health Insurance
- Public Insurance
Health insurance in Greece is offered through hospitals, private clinics and doctors as
long as you have been registered with a social insurance fund. Registration with such
institutions requires part or full time employment.
- Private Insurance
There are an important number of citizens which have subscribed to a private insurance
organisation, in order to enjoy private medical insurance. However, the costs and types
of cover vary widely so wether you decide to get private health insurance, it is important
to check the details carefully before you take out the policy. List with insurance
companies throughout Greece provided by the Greek Yellow Pages
8.4 People with Special Needs – Disabilities
The following website includes useful information for people with special needs
URL: www.kep.gov.gr/multilang/categories.asp?DccID=000000000000028.EN
60
Social Safety and Legal
Assistance
9.1 Introduction to the Greek social security system
Social security in Greece is of crucial importance for all the
citizens. The Greek social policy makers transformed
individual and kinship relationships and introduced a
Chapter
9
national social security system, which forms the operational framework for the
enjoyment of the right of workers and employees to social insurance benefits. The social
security system in Greece is a rather complex model of social protection that is promoted
through the application of three different techniques: social insurance for persons within
the labour market, social assistance for needy uninsured persons and a national health
scheme for all persons living in the Greek territory. Further information about the
National Social Security System is available at:
URL: http://www.ggka.gr/english/asfalistikoen_main.htm
9.2 Personal Security
Information regarding the personal security is provided by the General Secretariat of
Social Security supervised by the Hellenic Ministry of Labour and Social Security
9.2.1 Hellenic Ministry of Labour and Social Security
URL: www.ypakp.gr
9.2.2 General Secretariat of Social Security
URL: www.ggka.gr
9.3 Social Security Organisations
URL:
http://ggka.citron.gr/frontoffice/portal.asp?cpage=NODE&cnode=1&cuser=15E2349
5-4234-4234-8D56-5E8518D44302&clang=1
9.4 Human Rights and Foreign Citizens
Information about the social security legislation in Greece is available at: URL:
http://ggka.citron.gr/frontoffice/portal.asp?cpage=NODE&cnode=1&cuser=15E2349
5-4234-4234-8D56-5E8518D44302&clang=1
9.4.1 Ministry of Foreign Affairs
URL: www.mfa.gr
61
9.4.2 Embassies and Consulates in Greece
Table 9. 1 List of Embassies and Consulates in Greece
COUNTRY
ADDRESS
TEL
ALBANIA
ALGERIA
ARGENTINA
ARMENIA
AUSTRALIA
Karachristou St. 1 Athens
Eratosthenous St. 1 Athens
Vas.Sofias Ave. 59 Athens
Singrou Ave. 159 Athens
D.Soutsou 37 Athens & Tsoha Sts. 24, Athens
AUSTRIA
Vas.Sofias Ave. 4, 106 74 Athens
BANGLADESH
Akti Miaouli 81 Pireas
BELGIUM
Sekeri St. 3 Athens
BELIZE
BOZNIA HERZEGOWINA
BRAZIL
BULGARIA
CAMEROON
CANADA
CHAD
CHILE
CHINA
CONGO
Kifissias Ave. 62B Maroussi
Hatzikosta St. 3 Athens
Filikis Etairias Sq. 14 Kolonaki
Stratigou Kalari St. 33A Psihiko
Kifissias Ave. 180-182 Neo Psihiko
I.Genadiou St. 4 Athens
Alimou Ave. 114 Argiroupoli
Vas.Sofias Ave. 25 Athens
Krinon St. 2A Psihiko
Ariadnis 2 Filothei
CROATIA
Tzavela St. 4 Psihiko
CUBA
CYPRUS
CZECH REPUBLIC
DENMARK
DENMARK (ROYAL
DANISH)
ECUADOR
EGYPT (ARAB REP. OF)
EL SALVADOR
ESTONIA
ETHIOPIA
EUROPEAN
COMMISSION
FINLAND
Sofokleous St. 5 Filothei
Irodotou St. 16 Athens
Seferi St. 6 Psihiko
Akti Posidonos 26 Pireas
210 7234412, 210 7232457
210 7564191-2
210 7224753, 210 7224710
210 9317280
210 6450404
210 7257270, fax:210
7257292
210 4283315-7
210 3617886-7, 210
3600314-5
210 6199200, 210 6182000
210 6410788, 210 6411375
210 7213039
210 6748105-8
210 6724415
210 7273400
210 9922774
210 7292647,210 7252574
210 6723282
210 6775586
210 6777049, 210 6777059,
210 6777033
210 6855550
210 7237883, 210 7232727
210 6719701, 210 6713755
210 8919890
Vas. Sofias Ave. 11 Athens
210 3608315
Sotiros St. 6 Pireas
Sarantaporou St. 22 Kifissia
Patriarchou Ioakim St. 48-50 Athens
253,Singrou Ave., Athens
210 4223800-3
210 3618612-3
210 8077531
210 7229803
210 9403483, 210 9430922
2, Vas. Sofias Ave., Athens
210 7272100
Eratosthenous St. 1 Athens
Vas. Konstantinou Ave. 5 Athens
Visa granted for: Andorra Rep., Burkina Faso,
Central Africa
210 7519795, 210 7514966
Papadiamanti St. 4 Psihiko
210 6749585
Michalakopoulou St. 85 Athens
Agiou Dimitriou 24 Psihiko
Karaoli Dimitriou St. 3 Athens
210 7489180
210 6716737, 210 6725182
210 7285111
210 4138103
(AMFITRION TRAVEL)
210 3610766
FRANCE
FRANCE
FYROM (LIAISON
OFFICE)
GEORGIA
GEORGIA
GERMANY
GUATEMALA
2nd Merarhias Stratou St. 3 Pireas
HAITI
Dimokritou St. 5 Athens
62
210 7297700
210 3391000
HUNGARY
ICELAND
INDIA
INDONESIA REPUBLIC
IRAN (THE ISLAMIC REP.)
IRAQ
IRELAND
ISRAEL
ITALY
ITALY
JAPAN
JAPAN
JORDAN
KOREA (SOUTH)
KUWAIT
LATVIA (LETONIA)
LEBANON
LIBERIA
LIBYAN ARAB
JAMAHIRIYA
LITHUANIA
LUXEMBOURG
LUXEMBOURG
MALAISIA
MALTA
MALTA
MAURITIUS
MEXICO
MOROCCO
NEPAL
NETHERLANDS
NEW ZEALAND
NIGERIA
NORWAY
NORWAY
PAKISTAN
PANAMA
PARAGUAY
PERU
PHILIPPINES
POLAND
POLAND (REP.OF)
Kalvou St. 16 Psihiko
Papanastassiou 60 & Kalari St. Psihiko
Kleanthous St. 3 Athens
Marathonodromon St., Psichiko
Stratigou Kalari St. 16 Psihiko
Mazaraki St. 4 Psihiko
Marathonodromon St. 1 Psihiko
Sekeri St. 2 Athens
Meandrou St. 19 Ilissia
Messoghion Ave. 2-4 Athens
Papadiamanti St. 21 Psihiko
Kifissias Ave. 124 Ambelokipi
Marathonodromon St 27 Psihiko
Akti Posidonos 24 Pireas
25 Martiou St. 6 Psihiko
Efplias St. 2 Pireas
210 6752300
210 6726154, 210 6779771
210 7216227, 210 7216481
210 6742345, 210 6774692
210 6741937
210 6722330
210 7232771-2
210 6719530-1
210 3617260
210 7239045, 210 7249117
210 7233732
210 7758101-2
210 6744161
210 6984080 -2
210 6743593-4
210 4123138
210 6755873-4
210 4183191-3
Vironos St 13 Psihiko
210 6742120-2
Skoufa St. 11-13 Athens
Tzavella St. 42C Psihiko
Alimou St. 114 Argiroupoli
Efplias St. 2 Pireas
Κ.Tsatsou St. 4 Athens
Filikis Eterias Sqr. 14 Kolonaki
Mousson St. 14 Psihiko
Irodotou St. 8 Psihiko
Vas.Konstantinou Ave. 5-7, Athens
Kifissias Ave. 268, Chalandri
Iakinthon St. 50 Psihiko
Loukianou St. 6 Athens
Praxitelous St. 192 Pireas
Alopekis St. 2 Athens
Semitelou St. 2 Athens
Antheon St. 26 Psihiko
Kamelion St. 21 Psihiko
Chrissanthemon 22 Psihiko
PORTUGAL
ROMANIA
RUSSIA
RUSSIA
SAUDI ARABIA
SENEGAL
SINGAPORE
SLOVAKIA
SLOVENIA
Em. Benaki St. 7 Psihiko
Nikiforou Litra St. 28 Psihiko
Ethnikis Antistasseos St. 91, Halandri
Kifissias Ave. 10-12 Maroussi
Georgiou Seferi St. 4 Psihiko
Mavili St. 10 Psihiko
210 7294356-7
210 3640040
210 6721891
210 9922774
210 4185715-6
210 7258153
210 3246257
210 7294780-2
210 6744209-10
210 7220165
210 7239701-4
210 6874701
210 6718004, 210 6718007
210 4290780
210 7246173
210 7290122, 210 7290214
210 4286441-3
210 7249511-5
210 7792761
210 6721837, 210 6721883
210 6775740
210 6778260
210 7290096, 210 7290052,
210 7257505
210 6728875-6
210 6726130, 210 6725235
210 6742949
210 6716911-3
210 4597000
210 6834875
210 6771980
210 6775683-5
63
SOUTH AFRICA
SPAIN
SWEDEN
SWITZERLAND
SYRIAN ARAB REP.
TAIWAN
THAILAND
TOGO
TUNISIA
TURKEY
TURKEY
Kifissias Ave. 60 Maroussi
Dionissiou Areopaghitou St. 21 Αthens
Iassiou St. 2 Athens
Diamantidou St. 61 Athens
Marathonodromon Ave. 57 Psihiko
Marathonodromon Ave. 25 Psihiko
El. Venizelou St. 152 Kastri
Anthenon & Marathonos St. 2 Halandri
Vas. Paulou St. 22 Psihiko
Vas. Georgiou B St. 8 Athens
UKRAINE
Delta St. 2-4 Filothei
UNITED KINGDOM
Ploutarhou St. 1 Athens, Visa granted for all
the countries members of the
Commonwealth.
210 7272600
36, Amalias Ave., Athens
210 5230640, 210 5230462
210 7212951-9
Likavitou St. 1C Athens
Mavili St. 2 Athens
210 3602635
210 6743598
210 6721274, 210 6729169
210 7774355
UNITED NATIONS
INFOR. CENTRE
UNITED STATES OF
AMERICA
URUGUAY
VATICAN
VENEZUELA
YUGOSLAVUA
Source: EOT
64
210 6106645
210 9213123
210 7266100
210 7230364-6
210 6725575, 210 6725577
210 6776750
210 6710155, 210 6749065
210 6254191-2
210 6717590, 210 6749791
210 6714828
210 7236000
210 6856171-2, 210
6800230
Accommodation
Section
10.1 Introduction
It is very important to find accommodation that is suited to
your needs and ensure a comfortable staying for you and your
family in the country. The information provided in this
section assist users to find a place to stay in Greece.
10
10.2 Houses-Flats-Apartments
If you wish to rent a property for a long time of period, there are mainly two different
types of housing. Houses and flats-apartments. The facilities provided from each of them
vary considerably and, therefore, you should check whether or not the property meets
your requirements regarding the parking, the security, the rules about pets etc. In
addition, the volume and range of the accommodation available in Greece is normally
depending on the part of the country you are moving to. Larger cities for example may
offer greater options and price ranges than smaller towns and villages. On the other
hand, rental prices outside larger urban areas appear to be lower. Normally, there are
three alternatives of finding your own property:

advertisements in newspapers, magazines, internet etc
accommodation offices
word of mouth
10.2.1 Housing Rental
- Finding a house/Accommodation Offices
Finding a comfortable place to live is definitely an essential issue when you come to the
country and it is likely to take a lot of time and effort before you find something you are
happy with.
Accommodation Offices may be very helpful for you to find the most suitable property.
Such organisations usually charge a fee for helping you find accommodation. (Usually
half of the monthly rent). Information about accommodation agencies is available at
www.hellasyellow.gr
- Residential Contracts and Legislation
Landlords tend to ask for a damage deposit in advance, which usually is one or two
month's rent. Typically, there are fixed term leases of six months or a year. However, you
have the right not to agree to such contracts if you are not sure you wish to stay so long.
You should keep in mind that if you leave before the end of a fixed term lease, you may
lose your deposit. Additionally, in any time landlords are obliged to provide you with a
receipt for any deposit or rent you pay.
In general, it is always a good idea to be familiar with what rights you do and do not have
as a tenant, as they may vary comparing to your country. There is a phone number
providing full of free information about tenant rights:
Pan-Hellenic Confederation of Tenants
Tel: +30 210 5231848, 5246982
65
10.2.2 Housing Facilities
- Telephone
The Hellenic Telecommunications Organization (OTE S.A.) is the main
telecommunication company in Greece providing fixed and mobile telephony services. If
you are interested in buying a telephone line you can contact OTE on line.
(URL: http://english.oteshop.gr/images/basket.gif)
URL: www.ote.gr
- Electricity
The Public Power Corporation S.A. (PPC S.A.) is the electricity provider in Greece. The
price list of the valid since 2005 is available at:
(http://www.dei.gr/%285A0AE8A9E774EA826A4329618434EA862FA4E7A650AF84
9E%29/ecportal.asp?id=1020&nt=19&lang=2) by the PPC official website.
URL: www.dei.gr
- Water
There are different companies which offer water facilities in the country depending on
the geographical position your property is located.
Athens: The Athens Water Supply and Sewerage Company (EYDAP SA), is the largest
company in Greece operating in the water market. URL: www.eydap.gr
Thessaloniki: Thessaloniki water Supply and Sewerage CO SA (EYATH SA) is
responsible for the water supply of the city and the wider area. URL: www.eyath.gr
Patra: Municipal Enterprise for water and sewage of Patras is responsible for the water
supply of the city of Patras. URL: www.deyap.gr
Heraklion: The Municipal Enterprise for Water Supply and Sewerage of Heraklion
(M.E.W.S.H.) provides Heraklion and other areas with water facilities.
URL: www.deyah.gr
10.2.3 Buying/building a house
If you wish to buy your own property you can either contact an accommodation agency
placing your preference on how the property should be, or try on your own.
Usually, foreigners start their searching for a real estate broker, as they may not have the
appropriate experience to try alone.
On the other hand, if you want to build a new home, there are many issues you need to
know and take into consideration before you begin, such as the construction standards,
the related legal framework etc.
10.3 Lodging - Hotels
There are many hotels, rooms and other types of accommodation to let in Greece form
very small villages to big cities. Hotels, as well as rooms and apartments to let, are subject
to a rating system determined by the Greek National Tourist Organisation. In particular,
their classification is based on:

Class designation (old rating system): Lux, Α, Β, Γ, Δ, Ε
Star ratings (new rating system): 5*****, 4****, 3***, 2**, 1*
66
- National Union of Hotels Confederation
Information about Greek hotels are offered by the National Union of Hotels
Confederation
Further information: 24, Stadiou Str. - 105 64 Athens,
Tel: +30 210 3312535-6,
Fax: +30 210 3230636
- Hellenic Chamber of Hotels
The Hellenic Chamber of Hotels founded in 1935 is the official state consultant
concerning issues of tourism. All the hotels operating legally in Greece are members of
the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels which compromises more than 8,200 hotels in actual
operation. It is also a member of the National Union of Hotels Confederation of the
countries members of the European Union.
URL: www.grhotels.gr
- Hotel Search Form
The Greek National Tourism Organisation supervised by the Ministry of Tourism
provides an integrated hotels search machine
URL: www.gnto.gr/hotelsearch.php?langID=2
Figure 10. 1 Hotel search form
HOTEL
LOCATION
Name
City
Category
All
Prefecture
All
Class
All
Island
All
Hotel Indoor Facilities and Services
Restaurant
Partially Air Conditioned
Air Conditioning
Indoor Swimming Pool
Heated Swimming Pool
Suitable for disabled
Conference Centre
Pets Allowed
Conference Room
Bar
Smoking Areas
Children's Mini Club
Night Club
Fitness Centre
Health Club
Thalassotherapy
Exercise Room
Entertainment
Spa
Roof Garden
Shops
Garage
67
Games Room
Hairdresser
ISO
Thermal baths
Mini market
Room Facilities
Hotel Outdoor Facilities
Room Service
Tennis Court
Television set
Basket Ball Court
Minibar
Volley Ball Court
Fridge
Children's Playground
Kitchen
Mini Golf
Safe
Sea Sports
Hair Dryer
Outdoor Swimming Pool
Interactive TV
Pool Bar
Video pay TV
Parking
Check out from TV
Speaker phone
Voice mail
Fax or Email in rooms
Internet access
Data port connection
Free mini bus
Source: Greek National Tourism Organisation
68
Section
Services and other practical
information
11
11.1 Introduction
Establishing yourself in the Greece will raise a lot of
practical questions during the first few days. For example,
how does the public transport system work, what paperwork is required to open a bank
account or register your car etc.
Section 11 contains useful details about services and practical information concerning the
every day live in the country, and provides a legislation framework including a range of
different issues about researchers’ mobility.
11.2 Banks and Financial Institutions
There is an important number of Greek and foreign banks operating throughout the
country offering corporate and personal banking services.
11.2.1 Public Institutions
Table 11. 1 Public Institutions
BANK
ATEbank
Bank of Greece
Emporiki Bank
Geniki Bank
Greek Postal Savings Bank
National Bank of Greece
Source: Data based on primary Analysis
URL
www.ate.gr
www.bankofgreece.gr
www.emporiki.gr
www.geniki.gr
www.taxtam.gr
www.nbg.gr
11.2.2 Private Institutions
Table 11. 2 Private Institutions
BANK
Alpha Bank
Aspis Bank
Bank of Attica
Bank of Cyprus
Citibank
Co-operative Bank of Heraklion
Co-operative Bank of Chania
Co-operative Bank of Dodekanese
Co-operative Bank of Drama
Co-operative Bank of Ioannina
Co-operative Bank of Kozani
Co-operative Bank of Lesvos - Lemnos
Egnatia Bank
Eurobank
FBB - First Business Bank SA
Hellenic Bank
URL
www.alpha.gr
www.aspisbank.gr
www.bankofattica.gr
www.bankofcyprus.gr
www.citibank.gr
www.chaniabank.gr
www.bankdodecanese.gr
www.dramabank.gr
www.ioanninabank.gr
www.kozanibank.gr
www.lesvos-bank.net
www.egnatiabank.gr
www.eurobank.gr
www.fbbank.gr
www.hellenicbank.gr
69
HSBC
HVB
Laiki Bank
NovaBank
Piraeus Bank
Probank
Societe General Hellas
Source: Data based on primary Analysis
www.hsbc.gr
www.hypovereinsbank.gr
www.laiki.gr
www.novabank.gr
www.piraeusbank.gr
www.probank.gr
www.societegenerale.gr
11.3 Transportation
During the past few decades the transportation
network of the country was modernised and
impressively upgraded and, as a result, Greece
nowadays has an integrated transportation
infrastructure allowing for fast and safe traveling
throughout the country. Past projects have
importantly improved transportation structure,
while new are continuously being programmed,
and as consequence, the infrastructures of the
transportation grid become more and more
reliable.
Rio-Andirrio Bridge
11.3.2 Private Transportation
- Buying a car
In general, buying a car in Greece is cheaper comparing to other European countries.
Car dealers can provide you with all the appropriate details such as what paperwork is
required to buy a car etc.
- Vehicle registration and licensing
Before you can drive in Greece you must have a valid licence and insurance cover. The
car must also be registered and taxed and if it is over five years old, it must have a
certificate (you need to go to your nearest KTEO to obtain one).
Practical information regarding the vehicle registration and licensing can be found at:
www.kep.gov.gr/multilang/categories.asp?subDccID=000000000000031.EN&DccID=0
00000000000030.EN
- Driving licence
Information such as how to obtain a driving license, how to replace a driving licence with
an equivalent Community one, how to renew a driving licence etc is available at:
www.kep.gov.gr/multilang/categories.asp?subDccID=000000000000032.EN&DccID=0
00000000000030.EN
- Renting a car
There are an important number of car rental agencies catering to the needs of private
individuals with readily available cars and motorbikes throughout Greece. However,
before renting a vehicle, make sure that it has adequate insurance cover (against accident,
theft, fire, etc). For more information contact:
Association of Greek Car Rental Companies
Tel. 210 9942850
Fax: 210 9982023
70
- Road Connections
Greek road network covers 117,000 kilometres in total (mainland and islands) and can be
divided into the following categories:

Motorways
National roads and highways
Main road network (road connections between prefectures)
Asphalted roads
Main dirt roads (connecting communities)
Other dirt roads (forest roads, rough roads, secondary connections)
The main road axes are listed below, followed by the European road number in brackets:
Athens- Thessaloniki (E 75)
Athens- Corinth (E 94)
Corinth- Patras (E 65)
Corinth-Tripoli- Kalamata (E 65)
Patras-Pyrgos-Oly mpia (E 55)
Thessaloniki-Kavala- Alexandroupoli (E 90)
Igoumenitsa-Alexandroupoli (Egnatia Odos Motorway)
Chania-Agios Nikolaos ( Crete E 75)
- Road Maps
Table 11. 3 Road Maps
REGION
Northern
Greece
Southern
Greece
Attica
Athens wider
area
Perfecture of
Thessaloniki
Town of
Thessaloniki
Thessaly
Volos
Peloponnese
Patra
Crete
Heraklion Crete
SIZE
4,72MB
3,14MB
888ΚB
1,28MB
2,29MB
3,61MB
3,18MB
2,13MB
2,78MB
3,10MB
2,60MB
2,11MB
URL
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/voreia_ellada.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/notia_ellada.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/attiki.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/wider_athens.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/thessaloniki_nomos.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/thesaloniki_poli.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/thessalia.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/volos.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/peloponissos.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/patra.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/kriti.zip
www.gnto.gr/EmentorImages/File/roadmaps/irakleio.zip
Source: Ministry of Tourism
71
11.3.3 Public Transportation
- Urban Transportation
- Athens Metro
The Athens metro consists of three lines - Line 1 (the old Athens-Piraeus electric rail
service known as ISAP), Line 2 (underground) and Line 3 (underground) - covering a
considerable part of the Attica region. New extensions reaching other parts of the city
are currently expecting. Analytical route maps are displayed in every metro station. For
more information contact:
Attiko Metro
URL: www.ametro.gr
- Local Trains
Athens - Piraeus Electric Railways S.A
URL: www.isap.gr
- Busses
For information on Athens busses and trolleys and electric trolleybus itineraries, as well
as on timetables and tickets contact:
Athens Urban Transport Organization
URL: www.oasa.gr
- Taxis
Normally, Greek taxis appear to be cheaper as compared with the European standards.
All licensed taxis are equipped with metres (the fare is charged per km) and display a card
detailing the latest valid tariffs and surcharges. In certain tourist areas, you may be asked
to pay a predetermined (standard) amount for a ride to a specific destination; thus, before
boarding a taxi make sure to seek information from another source on the exact fare for
the journey.
- Inter-urban Transportation
- Airports
There are 44 airports operating in Greece which divided in three categories:
State International Airports
State Domestic Airports
Municipal Airports
- International connections
The 15 State International Airports accommodate airplanes of scheduled and nonscheduled airlines (especially during the summer) as well as charter flights, and
handle approximately 82% of the tourists who arrive annually in our country.
- Domestic Connections
Apart from the 15 State International Airports, which cater for domestic flights as
well, there are also 25 State Domestic Airports all over the country handling
domestic flights. Domestic flights are conducted by Olympic Airlines and Aegean
Airlines. Further information:
Olympic Airlines - URL: www.olympicairlines.com
Aegean Airlines - URL: www.aegeanair.com
72
- Ports
The country boasts a particularly extensive coastal transportation network serving all
Greek islands, the majority of coastal destinations in mainland Greece and certain
international ports. The Greek fleet, consisting of all types of vessels (passengers’ ships,
ferry boats, hydrofoils, etc) operating on domestic and international routes, has
undergone major refurbishment, thus ensuring travelers speedy, reliable and enjoyable
travel.Further information:
Ministry of Merchant Marine
URL: www.yen.gr
- Trains
Greek railway network is approximately 2,500 km long, covering a large part of the
mainland and linking the country with central Europe and Turkey. Transport of
passengers, luggage and driver-accompanied vehicles is ensured by regular daily service.
Timetables are determined on a yearly basis. Greek railroads meet high technical
standards, comprising trains of the Intercity type (express or regular) and regular trains
(high-speed rail). For more information contact:
Hellenic Railways Organisation
URL: www.ose.gr
- Busses
Buss as a means of inter-urban transportation is very popular in Greece. KTEL operates
to a range of different destinations in all over the country and carries an important
number of passengers every year operating vehicles that meet all modern technical
specifications for the safe transport. Timetables and other practical information:
URL: www.ktel.org
11.4 Audiovision
11.4.1 Telephony
See “Telephone” Section 10
11.4.2 Television - Radio
There are three public TV channels and a number of private –free of charge- from which
four of them cover the whole Greek area. Cable TV is also available. Television in
Greece does not require any licence. In terms of radio, there are many stations which are
on line on the internet.
11.4.3 Internet
Internet penetration in Greece is not very high, and it appears to be more expensive as
compared with the North European countries. Connection is available through contracts
and Internet Cards provided by a range of different internet providers. Quality of the
internet access depends on the location. In large cities internet connectivity can be
obtained through broadband, ADSL, ISDN, and dial-up, while in smaller towns and
villages it may be available only via dial-up.
The internet extension in Greece is .gr
11.5 Books, maps and pictures of Greece
Information on books, maps and pictures of Greece can be downloaded from:
URL: www.gnto.gr/pages.php?pageID=804&langID=2
73
11.6 Attractions
Greece has an abundance of resources that tourists with ecological and cultural interests
will find attractive. The wealth of cultural, as well as ecological resources constitute a
special comparative advantage of the country for those interested in the conservation of
cultural diversity, bio-diversity and eco-systems. These resources are marked by their
wide variety, rareness and distinctiveness and are found in areas many of which have
already been placed under special protection.
11.6.1 Greek nature
The country’s abundant natural gifts includes thousands of indented coasts, imposing
rocky massifs, caves, gorges, lakes, rivers, biotopes of spectacular beauty and unique
natural habitats etc. Further information is available at:
www.gnto.gr/pages.php?pageID=738&langID=2
11.6.2 Archaeological sites & Monuments
Greece is full of archaeological sites and monuments of distinctive prestige and
charm. Visitors have the opportunity to make a unique “journey” through the rare
“mosaic” of historic and cultural memory which has left an indelible mark on every
region of the country and effortlessly highlights the manifold manifestations of Greek
culture to date. For further information see “Culture” in Section 2.
11.6.3 Museums
A great number of museums operate throughout the country. More than 207 of them are
state-run or supervised by the Ministry of Culture and 107 are privately owned.
* Opening Hours: Most state-run museums are open on all weekdays except Monday.
Museums are closed on the following public holidays: January 1st, Good Friday, Easter
Day, May 1st, Christmas (December 25 & 26). As regards other public holidays, check
with the information centre of the museum you wish to visit to verify opening hours and
days. For further information see “Culture” in Section 2.
11.7 Mail
The Hellenic Post (ELTA) offers mail services. However, there are a number of private
courier services, both local and international, which deliver countrywide.
ELTA
URL: www.elta-net.gr
11.8 Daily Life and Cost of living
If you wish to get some practical information about the daily life and the social activities
of the city you live in, a visit to the town house would be a good option, as you can find
lots of printed information material about the peculiarities of your town, association,
clubs, local markets, church services etc.
In terms of the cost of living in the country, although it has increased during the last
years, especially after the introduction of Euro, it remains lower as compared with the
Northern European countries, while it appears to be equivalent to the average cost of
living in the Western European countries.
74
11.9 Legislation Framework
Table 11. 4 Legislation Framework
Freedom of movement for workers
Working conditions
Safety at work
Wages, income and working hours
Industrial relations
Employment and unemployment
Protection of workers
Employment incentives
Social security
http://europa.eu.int/eur-lex/lex/en/repert/0510.htm
http://europa.eu.int/eurlex/lex/en/repert/0520.htm#052020
75
Useful Addresses
12.1 Introduction
In this section you can find useful phone numbers, URL
and email addresses.
12.2 First Aid and Emergency
Section
12
Table 12. 1 First Aid and Emergency
Organisation
Police
Fire Brigade
Tourist Police
Ambulance
On Duty hospitals
Blood Bank
Poisons Centre
Chemists
Source: Primary Analysis
T el
100
191
171
166
106
+30 210 8219391
+30 210 7793777
107 & 102
12.3 Ministries
Table 12. 2 Ministries
Ministry
Telephone
URL
E-mail
Ministry for the Aegean
& Island Policy
+30 210 331171416
www.ypai.gr
[email protected]
Ministry of Culture
+30210 8201100
www.culture.gr
Ministry of Development
+30 210 6969218
www.ypan.gr
+30 210 3332000
www.ypetho.gr
[email protected]
+30 210 5295000
www.ypakp.gr
-
+30 210 6415700
www.minenv.gr
[email protected]
v.gr
+30 210 3682700
www.mfa.gr
[email protected]
+30 21 5232820-9
www.ypyp.gr
webmaster@mohaw
.gr
+30 210 7711019
www.ministryofju
stice.gr
[email protected]
+30 210 419700
www.yen.gr
[email protected]
+30 210 6876789
www.mod.gr
[email protected]
Ministry of Economy &
Finance
Ministry of Employment
& Social Protection
Ministry for the
Environment, Physical
Planning & Public Works
Ministry of Foreign
Affairs
Ministry of Health and
social solidarity
Ministry of Justice
Ministry of Mercantile
Marine
Ministry of National
Defence
76
generalenquiries@n
oc.culture.gr
[email protected]
r
Ministry of National
Education & Religious
Affairs
Ministry of Public Order
Ministry of Rural
Development & Food
+30 210 3723000
www.ypepth.gr
webmaster@ypepth.
gr
+30 210 6977000
www.ydt.gr
[email protected]
+30 210 2124000
www.minagric.gr
[email protected]
Ministry of Tourism
+30 210 6969813-5
www.gnto.gr
Ministry of Transport &
Communications
+30 210 6508000
www.yme.gr
[email protected]
[email protected]
Source: Primary Analysis
12.4 Educational Institutions
Table 12. 3 University Level Institutions
Institute
URL
Athens School of Fine Arts
Aristotle University of Thessaloniki
Agricultural University of Athens
Democritus University of Thrace
University of Athens
National Technical University of Athens
University of the Ionian
Athens University of Economics and Business
University of the Aegean
University of Thessaly
University of Ioannina
University of Crete
Economics & Social Sciences University of Macedonia
University of Patra
University of Piraeus
Panteion University
Technical University of Crete
Harokopio University
Hellenic Open University
77
www.asfa.gr
www.auth.gr
www.aua.gr
www.duth.gr
www.uoa.gr
www.ntua.gr
www.uion.edu.gr
www.aueb.gr
www.aegean.gr
www.uth.gr
www.uoi.gr
www.uch.gr
www.uom.gr
www.upatras.gr
www.unipi.gr
www.panteion.gr
www.tuc.gr
www.hua.gr
www.eap.gr
Table 12. 4 Technological Educational Institutes
Institute
Athens TEI
Epirus TEI
Crete TEI
Thessaloniki TEI
Kalamata TEI
Kavala TEI
Kozani TEI
Lamia TEI
Larisa TEI
Mesolongi TEI
Patra TEI
Piraeus TEI
Serres TEI
Halkida TEI
URL
www.teiath.gr
www.teiep.gr
www.teiher.gr
www.teith.gr
www.teikal.gr
www.teikav.edu.gr
www.teikoz.gr
www.teilam.gr
www.teilar.gr
www.teimes.gr
www.teipat.gr
www.teipir.gr
www.teiser.gr
www.teihal.gr
12.5 Public and Private Libraries
Table 12. 5 Digital Libraries
Library
URL
"Artemis" - The NTUA Computer Systems
Laboratory
University of Athens library
University of Athens “Hellinomnimon” Digital
Library
The University of Crete Digital Library
"Myriobiblos" - the Church of Greece Digital
Library
The Technical Chamber of Greece Digital
Library
78
http://artemis.cslab.ece.ntua.gr
www.lib.uoa.g
http://sat1.space.noa.gr/hellinomnimon/libr
ary.htm
http://dlib.libh.uoc.gr
www.myriobiblos.gr
www.central.tee.gr/dlib/index0.html
Table 12. 6 Other Libraries
Library
National Library of Greece
National Archive of Traditional
Greek Costumes
Archeology archives in Greece
Lilian Voudouri Music Library of
Greece
Public Library of Veria
National Social Research Centre
Library
National Centre for Maritime
Research Library
National Book Centre
Bibliological Library
Library of the Parliament of the
Greeks
College of Athens Library
(Hellenic-American Educational
Foundation)
Eugenides Foundation Library
Demokritos Library
Gennadius Library
Institute of Geological and
Mineral Research Library
Centre for European and
Constitutional Law Library
URL
www.nlg.gr
www.culture.gr/4/42/421/42101/42101t/e42101en.html
http://apollo.culture.gr/2/20/201/2011/e201103a.html
www.mmb.org.gr/index.htm
www.libver.gr/en/public.htm
www.ekke.gr/html/eng/library/index.html
http://atlantis.fl.ncmr.gr/homepagegr.htm
www.ekebi.gr/greek.html
www.parliament.gr
www.haef.gr/haef/greek/libraries/acl/index.html
www.eugenfound.edu.gr
www.lib.demokritos.gr
www.ascsa.edu.gr/gennadius/www.htm
www.igme.gr/g44.htm
www.cecl.gr/library/grlibrary.htm
12.6 Other
Table 12. 7 Other useful URL and phone numbers
COMPANY/SERVICE
TEL
URL
Athens Taxis
1203,
1300
-
Athens Traffic Map
Athens Urban Transportation
Broker information
Citizens Service Centres
Departures from Piraeus Port
Greek Postal Codes
Hospitals, Pharmacies
OTE Yellow Pages
Real Time Flight Information
Road Assistance
Time
Weather
Yellow Page
185
1424
1564
1440
1434
11888
104
141
1448
139
www.transport.ntua.gr/map/en/index.php
www.oasa.gr/uk/index_uk.asp
www.kep.gov.gr
http://egov.yen.gr/en/yen.chtm?prnbr=27622
www.postal.gr/index.cfm?&lan=en
http://whitepages.oteshop.gr/en/index.jsp
www.aia.gr/EN/real_time/real_time.htm
www.xo.gr
79
Frequently asked questions
What if I don't speak Greek?
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Although you will probably work in an English speaking environment you will need to learn
Greeks, as it appears to be essential in the every day life. For Greek learning opportunities
See “Learning Greek” in Section 2
What is the electric current?
The standard in Greece is 230V AC (50Hz). Appliances from North America require a
transformer and British ones an adaptor.
Is the water drinkable?
Tap water is usually sufficient and drinkable in all the Greek regions. However, bottled water is
also available with exceptional quality water.
What are the Trading Hours?
Shops are open: Monday - Wednesday - Saturday 09:00 - 14:30 while Tuesday - Thursday - Friday
09:00 - 14:30 and 17:00 - 20:30
Supermarkets are open: Monday - Friday 09:00 – 21:00 and Saturday 09:00 – 18:00
What should I do in an emergency?
In an emergency situation where life is threatened call 100 (police).
EMPLOYMENT
How do I find work in Greece?
Information on how to find work and how to apply for a job is provided by OAED
www.oaed.gr
What are the working conditions in Greece?
See “Ministry of Employment and Social Protection” (www.ypakp.gr) in Section 6
How to obtain a professional licence?
Information on how to obtain a professional licence is available from the Citizens Service Centre
at www.kep.gov.gr/multilang/categories.asp?DccID=000000000000096.EN
How to find somewhere to live?
ACCOMMODATION
Accommodation Offices will help you find a place
See “Finding a house” in Section 10
HEALTH
How to find out about hospitals and healthcare?
See “Hospitals and Clinics” in section 8
EDUCATION
What schools are available for my children?
There is a range of foreign schools available for your children
See “The Greek Education System” in Section 2
80
INDEX
A
Accommodation,
65
Hotel, 66
House, 65
Airport, 22, 72
Automobile, 28
Greek, 16
Learning, 16
Geography, 8, 44
H
Health, 59
Holidays, 19
Hospitals, 60
Centres, 40
System, 39
R&D, 32
Policy, 31, 36
Map, 34
System, 32
Funding, 33
S
B
I
Bank, 69
D
Innovation
Policy, 36
Relay Centres, 51
Intellectual Property
Rights, 31
Insurance, 60
Public, 60
Private, 60
Internet, 73
Dentists, 60
Doctors, 60
L
E
Labour, 55, 56
Languages, 10
Legislation, 31, 65, 75
Science & Technology, 31
Indicators, 35
Parks 52-53
Policy, 31
Scholarships, 53
Sports, 19
Stay, 29, 30
Requirements, 29, 30
System
Economic, 13
Educational, 14
National Health, 59
Political, 12
R&D, 32
Social Security, 61
Tax, 57
M
T
Mail, 74
Medication, 59
Ministry of, 76
Culture, 18, 76
Development, 32, 38, 76
Economy and Finance, 13,
76
Education and Religious
Affairs, 14, 76
Foreign Affairs, 61, 76
Labour and Social Security,
61, 76
Museums, 18
Tax, 57-58
Technological Educational
Institute, 48-51
of Athens, 48
of Crete, 48
of Epirus, 48
of Thessaloniki, 49
of Kalamata, 49
of Kavala, 49
of Kozani, 49
of Lamia, 49
of Larissa, 50
of Messolonghi, 50
of Patras, 50
of Piraeus, 50
of Serres, 50
of Chalkida, 50
Technology
Parks, 52
Telephony, 73
Television, 73
Theaters, 19
Time, 11, 79
Transportation, 70-72
C
Cinemas, 19
Clinics, 60
Currency, 9
Education, 14-16,
43-51
Electricity, 66
Embassies, 62
Emergency, 59-60,
76
Entry, 29, 30
Requirements, 29, 30
Environment
Economic, 13
Indicators, 13
Education, 14
Political, 13
Culture, 18
F
Festivals, 19
Flag, 10
Funding, 53
R&D, 33
G
General Secretariat
for Research and
Technology, 31,
40-42, 53
P
Population, 6, 9
R
Radio, 73
Recruitment Office, 56
Religion, 10
Research
Bodies, 41
81
Athens Metro, 72
Busses, 72, 73
Car, 70, 71
Inter-urban, 72
Local Trains, 72
Road Connections, 71
Road Maps, 71
Taxis, 72, 73
Urban, 72, 73
U
Universities, 43-48
Agricultural University of
Athens (AUA), 43
Aristotle University of
Thessaloniki, 43
Athens School of Fine Arts,
43
Athens University of
Economics and Businesses,
43
Democritus University of
Thrace, 44
Harokopio University, 44
Hellenic Open University, 44
Ionian University, 44
National Technical
University of Athens, 44
Panteion University, 45
Technical University of Crete,
45
University of Athens, 45
University of Crete, 46
University of Ioannina, 46
University of Macedonia
Economic and Social Science,
46
University of Patras, 46
University of Peloponnese, 47
University of Piraeus, 47
University of the Aegean, 47
University of Thessaly, 47
University of Western
Macedonia, 48
W
Weather, 10, 79