From April 2026, the minimum wage in the private sector will rise to €910, directly affecting 600,000 workers across the country. This increase, marking the third consecutive step in improving wages, is accompanied by the restoration of seniority increments, which will provide significant pay increases to thousands of workers.
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The new era for minimum wage
According to George Avtias’ report in “Apogevmatini”, the government has set a target of €950 by 2027, meaning a total increase of €70 over two years. This gradual improvement creates stability and predictability in the labor market, strengthening household confidence and optimism for the future.
Alongside the minimum wage increase, entry-level salaries in the public sector will follow the same upward trajectory, ensuring balance between the two sectors.
Seniority increments: The key to higher wages
Seniority increments represent the most significant factor in wage increases, offering pay rises from 10% to 30% above minimum wage. Specifically, 200,000 workers will see their salaries range from €1,001 to €1,183.
The seniority increment scale works as follows: the first increment offers a 10% increase (€1,001), the second reaches 20% total (€1,092), while the third increment can raise wages up to 30% (€1,183).
Eligible for seniority increments are those employed before 2012 who maintained their employment relationship, full-time workers, and those with continuous or interrupted employment. A significant development is that from 2026, new workers will also begin earning eligibility for seniority increments.
Calculation and requirements for seniority increments
The calculation method differs depending on worker category. For employees, a 10% increase applies per three-year period with a maximum limit of 30% for nine years and above. Conversely, manual workers receive 5% per three-year period, with a maximum 30% for 18 years and above.
Special consideration has been given to part-time periods, which are converted to equivalent full-time work. Additionally, when actual wages exceed legal minimums, differences are offset, ensuring each worker receives their corresponding amount.
It’s worth noting that the period from 2012 to 2023 was characterized by the absence of seniority increments, which dealt a significant blow to thousands of workers. The restoration of this system from 2024 rectifies this injustice.
Benefits and allowances affected
The minimum wage increase positively affects 28 different benefits and allowances calculated based on it. Among the most significant are:
• Unemployment benefit and end-of-unemployment assistance
• Nine-month maternity allowance
• Child and marriage allowances
• Two-month parental leave allowance
• Seasonal allowances for construction workers, artists and tourism professionals
• Internship allowance (80% of minimum wage)
• Christmas and Easter bonuses
• Holiday allowance
Economic outlook and implications
The minimum wage increase strategy is not an isolated act, but part of a broader plan to strengthen the economy. Improving workers’ purchasing power is expected to boost consumption and create positive market dynamics.
For young professionals, seniority increments provide strong incentives to remain in the labor market and invest in experience. Meanwhile, for older workers, the restoration of seniority increments represents vindication of years of effort.
With minimum wage reaching €910, seniority increments offering increases up to 30%, and 28 benefits following the upward trend, 2026 is shaping up as a year of significant positive developments for the workplace in our country.
Published in Apogevmatini
