The application process for Greece’s Social Tourism program for the 2026–2027 period, run by the Public Employment Service (DYPA), is now underway, with submissions opening in stages based on applicants’ tax identification numbers (AFM).
The program, which began accepting applications on 21 April 2026, has already seen strong demand, with early technical delays reported due to high traffic on the online platform. The scheme is expected to benefit around 300,000 workers and unemployed individuals and has a total budget of €50 million. It will begin on 18 May 2026 and run for 13 months.
Staggered application system by tax ID
Applications are being processed according to the last digit of the applicant’s tax number:
- AFM ending in 1 and 2: 22 April 2026
- 3 and 4: 23 April 2026
- 5 and 6: 24 April 2026
- 7, 8 and 9: 25 April 2026
- From 26 April 2026, all applicants can submit freely
Holiday benefits and regional incentives
Successful applicants will receive vouchers that allow subsidized accommodation of up to six nights at registered tourism providers, with a small personal contribution.
Extended benefits apply in specific regions:
- Up to 10 free nights in selected islands
- Up to 12 free nights with no contribution in parts of northern and central Greece affected by recent natural or economic challenges
These enhanced provisions apply to destinations including several eastern Aegean islands and regions such as northern Evia and parts of Thessaly and Evros.
Accommodation subsidies increase by 20% during peak holiday periods, including August, Christmas, and Easter seasons.
The program also subsidizes ferry travel, with beneficiaries paying only 25% of the ticket cost, while people with disabilities are entitled to free transport.
Who is eligible
Eligibility is open to:
- Employees in the private sector
- Individuals insured through Greece’s social security system who have contributed to unemployment insurance within the past 12 months
- Registered unemployed individuals for at least three consecutive months, subject to income limits
Income thresholds vary depending on family status, starting at €16,000 for single applicants and increasing for married couples and families with children.
Selection is based on a points system that takes into account income, family composition, disability status, single-parent households, and previous participation. Priority is also given to first-time applicants and those who did not participate in recent programmes.
For the first time, large families are included without additional scoring requirements, provided they meet basic eligibility criteria.
Applicants can submit requests through the official government portal (gov.gr), while tourism providers such as hotels and ferry companies are also registering to participate.
Further details are available through Greece’s Public Employment Service website.
