Greece plans new Market Pass and financial aid for households

The Greek government is planning a new cycle of financial assistance for vulnerable households, centered on the return of the ‘Market Pass’ and an annual 300 euro subsidy. The Market Pass is expected to be activated toward the end of autumn, following technical adjustments to the information system. The program aims to support over 200,000 households against rising food costs.

Under the current plan, the monthly assistance would start at approximately 40 euros for single-person households, increasing based on family size and the number of dependents. Beneficiaries may include the unemployed, single-parent families, large families, persons with disabilities, and recipients of the Minimum Guaranteed Income. In some scenarios, retroactive payments could reach up to 1,200 euros over a 30-month period.

The aid will be distributed via digital vouchers usable at supermarkets, bakeries, and food stores. Purchases of alcohol and tobacco products are excluded. Most beneficiaries may be identified automatically through existing state data, removing the need for new applications. Additionally, a separate 300 euro annual subsidy is planned for approximately 1.7 million citizens, including low-income pensioners and people with disabilities, with payments expected in November.