Greece records net return of expatriates for first time since crisis

An OECD report released in September shows that the number of Greeks returning home has risen steadily since 2021. In 2023, for the first time since the 2009‑2018 economic crisis, more Greeks came back than left, with 46,000 returnees versus 37,000 departures.

The study notes that about 800,000 Greek‑born people still reside in OECD countries, especially the United States, Australia, Canada and the EU. Around 60% of those who returned are university graduates aged 20‑39. Minister of Labour Niki Kerameus praised the results, saying “the strategy implemented has borne fruit,” and highlighted measures such as digitalising public services, a seven‑year income‑tax reduction for returnees and recognition of foreign medical diplomas.

While unemployment peaked at 26% in 2012, the improved economic and social context is now the main driver for repatriation. Nevertheless, more than 15% of potential returnees remain discouraged by low salaries, limited meritocracy, high living costs, insufficient research funding and bureaucratic hurdles.