Greece implements Law 5316/2026 on pay transparency and pensions

Greece is implementing Law 5316/2026, which introduces significant changes to labor rights and pension regulations. The law incorporates EU Directive 2023/970 regarding pay transparency and gender equality, mandating that all private-sector employers establish documented salary structures based on gender-neutral criteria such as skills, responsibility, and working conditions.

Under the new regulations, job advertisements may not mention gender or family status, and candidates have the right to know salary ranges before their first interview. Employers must respond to written requests regarding pay levels within two months.

Additionally, the law introduces new pension provisions for healthcare workers within the National Health System (ESY) and the National Centre of Emergency Care (EKAB). Nurses, nursing assistants, drivers, and ambulance assistants can now opt into the 'heavy and unhealthy occupations' (VAE) pension scheme. This inclusion is optional for primary insurance but becomes mandatory for supplementary insurance if the primary option is selected. To participate, workers must submit a single application within a strict six-month window and pay a supplementary contribution, split between the employee and the employer.