A 300-euro equalization allowance in the public sector instead of “personal differential”<\/b>, extension of arrangements for loans in Swiss francs, increase in the exemption threshold, transitional period for hybrid cars provided for in omnibus bill submitted to the Parliament.<\/p>\n
With a host of changes, taking into account the comments of stakeholders and citizens during the public consultation phase, the omnibus bill on \u201cMeasures to address the energy crisis and boost citizens\u2019 disposable income, wage and tax provisions, regulations for the out-of-court debt settlement mechanism, public sector pension regulations, regulations for the Gaming Supervision and Control Commission and improvement of the gaming framework, provisions regarding the Public Real Estate Company S.A. and other provisions<\/b>\u201d.<\/p>\n
As announced by theMinistry of National Economy and Finance, the bill has been enriched with two improvements and five new additions.<\/p>\n
Specifically, the new provisions provide for:<\/p>\n
1) Regarding the registration fee for hybrid vehicles<\/b><\/p>\n
It is extended for six months, until 1\/1\/2027, the eligibility of hybrid electric vehicles for a uniform 50% reduction in registration fees, regardless of carbon dioxide (CO\u2082). The previous system of emission-based discount rates is abolished.<\/p>\n
At the same time, hybrid electric vehicles with carbon dioxide emissions of 75 g \/km, imported between November 1, 2025 and May 31, 2026, and have not yet been registered, are exempt from 75% of the registration fees.<\/p>\n
2) For private vehicles<\/b><\/p>\n
A new provision taking effect on July 1, 2026, provides for the rectification of wage disparities due to personal differences among public servants.<\/p>\n
Under the new measure, in public sector entities where the majority of employees had a personal difference<\/b> – due to the extensions granted successively in 2018 and 2023 – salaries are being balanced by replacing the personal allowance up to the amount of 300 euros with regular pay of 300 euros.<\/b><\/p>\n
Approximately 1,500 employees out of the roughly 7,000 civil servants at specific agencies (mainly ministries and independent or judicial authorities) who were either hired after March 2023 or whose personal salary difference had fallen below this amount. Thus \u2014as stated in the announcement\u2014balance is restored to civil servants\u2019 salaries within the agencies themselves, resolving a problem that has persisted since 2011.<\/p>\n
3) Regarding the exemption from seizure of a specific benefit provided by the Ministry of Education for students with hearing impairments<\/b><\/p>\n
A provision is added to the bill to fill a legal loophole and correct a social injustice regarding a specific benefit provided by the Ministry of Education for students withhearing impairments.<\/p>\n
The new regulation stipulates that this specific benefit provided by the Ministry of Education for the supply of hearing aids to students with hearing impairments is non-transferable, unseizable, not subject to attachment, and not offset against debts owed to the State, social security agencies, first- and second-level local authorities, or financial institutions of any kind.<\/p>\n
4) For loans in Swiss francs – Extension<\/b><\/p>\n
The the Swiss franc borrower protection program, with the aim of giving more borrowers the opportunity to convert their loans to euros.<\/p>\n
The Ministry of Economy and Finance aims, on the one hand, to permanently resolve these loans, putting an end to the uncertainty caused by exchange rate fluctuations, and indeed with a fixed interest rate and fixed monthly payments.<\/p>\n
It is noted that to date, approximately 50% of borrowers have initiated their enrollment in this program.<\/p>\n
5) Regarding the increase in the exemption limit to 1,600 euros<\/b><\/p>\n
The exemption limit for bank accounts is being raised to 1,600 euros for all debts owed to the government and banks.<\/p>\n
6) Regarding the new tax regime for the management of alternative investments<\/b><\/p>\n
A targeted tax framework is being established to attract to Greece individuals who manage alternative investment funds (hedge funds, private equity, AIFs).<\/p>\n
This is a significant opportunity for the country, which aims to create an alternative investment management hub based in Athens, by attracting highly specialized talent from the Middle East and Asia, as well as from London and other European capitals.<\/p>\n
Moreover, an entire ecosystem of support services\u2014legal, auditing, tax, banking, custodial, advisory, and technological\u2014which in turn creates new jobs.<\/p>\n
Foreign investment firms (based in the European Union and third countries under specific conditions) continue to be taxed where they are established.<\/p>\n
The new framework ensures that if some executives move to Athens or if an office is established here to provide services to the Fund Manager, it is not automatically considered that the tax residence of the Manager, the investment organization, or the unit holders is \u201ctransferred\u201d to Greece,<\/b> nor does it create a permanent establishment of the aforementioned persons in Greece.<\/p>\n
As emphasized in the Ministry\u2019s announcement, this is not an \u201cexemption\u201d: the foreign group is taxed abroad in any case, while whatever is generated in Greece (service offices, salaries) is fully taxed here.<\/b> This avoids double taxation and provides the legal certainty that foreign managers need to choose Athens.<\/p>\n
Conversely, full taxation of all economic activity in Greece is provided for. The Greek government will collect all taxes as usual. Specifically:<\/p>\n
\u2022Service offices established in Greece to provide services to affiliated companies\/managers are fully taxed at the standard corporate tax rate.<\/p>\n
\u2022All employees are fully taxed on their salaries and pay the required contributions, receiving the benefits and rights provided by Greek labor and social security laws.<\/p>\n
\u2022Corporate tax and VAT are paid as required.<\/p>\n
Those who henceforth transfer their tax residence to Greece, falling under the status of incoming workers under Article 5C of the Income Tax Code, with a time limit of 7 years and provided they are employed by a Greek entity with operating expenses of at least 3 million euros per year, will be subject to a 5% tax rate exclusively on the additional performance fees (carried interest \/ performance fees) of management executives.<\/p>\n
7) Regarding the mandatory quarterly reporting to the AADE for online betting companies<\/b><\/p>\n
Under another provision, the Hellenic Gaming Commission (HGC) will compile and submit to the AADE every quarter all necessary data derived from the software server (server) or data security (safe) that betting companies\u2014which have received an official license from the EEP for online gambling and betting\u2014are required to maintain.<\/p>\n
This enhances the transparency of this market\u2019s operations and ensures the effectiveness of the AADE\u2019s oversight mechanisms. By utilizing this data, the AADE gains a reliable and verifiable audit tool for accurately determining the amounts owed to the State, as well as for cross-checking the accuracy of thepayments made by license holders.<\/p>\n
The bill\u2019s key provisions include all new support measures for disposable income, private debt, and housing. Furthermore, the bill constitutes a comprehensive legislative framework for the prevention, detection, and combating of illegal gambling.<\/p>\n
In this context:<\/p>\n
\u2022 The role and responsibilities of the Gaming Supervision and Control Commission (E.E.E.P.) is being strengthened so that it can immediately remove illegal online content by identifying involved accounts and websites.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The Gaming Auditors Corps is being upgraded, with its members being granted the authority of special investigative officers to investigate criminal offenses related to the gambling market.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Immediate closure of establishments for up to one year, as well as revocation of operating licenses by municipalities, is provided for establishments where illegal gambling takes place.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Strict administrative and criminal penalties are established for violators, as well as prison sentences for those who obstruct inspections.<\/p>\n
More specifically, the provisions stipulate:<\/p>\n
1) A supplementary budget of 800 million euros and support measures to address the energy crisis<\/b><\/p>\n
The same bill includes the supplementary budget, as well as additional support measures totaling 800 million euros.<\/p>\n
The measures concern:<\/p>\n
\u2022 boosting disposable income,<\/p>\n
\u2022 supporting families with children and vulnerable social groups,<\/p>\n
\u2022 addressing the housing problem through supply-side measures,<\/p>\n
\u2022 as well as managing private debt.<\/p>\n
Specifically, the following are provided for:<\/p>\n
– Provisions for the out-of-court mechanism and private debt<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 The Out-of-Court Debt Settlement Mechanism<\/b> is being expanded, as the minimum debt threshold is reduced to 5,000 euros, from 10,000 euros today.<\/p>\n
\u2022 For the first time, the option to repay and save one\u2019s primary residence through the liquidation of other properties is provided under the out-of-court mechanism.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The option to settle debts in up to 72 installments is established for debts that had not been settled by the end of 2023.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The option to lift a bank account garnishment is provided, provided the debtor pays off 25% of their debt and settles the remaining confirmed debts with the tax authorities.<\/p>\n
– Measures to address the energy crisis and support farmers<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 A new procedure is established for exemption from excise tax on agricultural diesel, with a direct discount at the pump via a special digital platform of the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE).<\/p>\n
\u2022 The application of the special GAIA Tariff is set to be extended to new farmers so they can benefit from lower electricity costs.<\/p>\n
– Assistance for families, retirees, and vulnerable groups<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Emergency financial assistance is being established for families with children, amounting to 150 euros for each dependent child, with expanded income criteria.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The allowance paid every November to retirees and vulnerable social groups is increased to 300 euros, from 250 euros today, the allowance paid every November to retirees and vulnerable social groups, while income eligibility criteria are being expanded, resulting in an increase in the number of beneficiaries.<\/p>\n
\u2022 At the same time, those receiving only a widow\u2019s pension will be eligible for the \u20ac300 benefit starting at age 60, instead of 65.<\/p>\n
– Housing measures:<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Rent reimbursement: The income limits for rent reimbursement are being expanded, resulting in coverage for 85% of tenants.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Teachers, doctors, and nurses serving in the Greek provinces are eligible for a refund of two months\u2019 rent, with no income-related restrictions.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Short-term rentals (Airbnb): The issuance of new permits for properties located in the First Municipal Community of the Municipality of Thessaloniki is prohibited.<\/p>\n
\u2022 A new \u201cBuild-to-Rent\u201d program is established, which provides tax incentives for private investment in the housing sector.<\/p>\n
2) Wage adjustments<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 The issue of determining the wage scale for permanent employees\u2014formerly private-sector employees with indefinite-term contracts\u2014 civil servants who, upon becoming permanent employees, retained the social security status of the former IKA and have submitted a retirement application.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The issue of extending the personal allowance for new employees in agencies where the personal allowance had been extended until March 2023 is resolved.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The salary system for staff of the Presidency of the Government is unified and streamlined in accordance with the single pay scale, and employees of the General Secretariat for Coordinationand the General Secretariat for Legal and Parliamentary Affairs of the Presidency of the Government to receive the salary increments provided for in Law 4622\/2019, subject to meeting the relevant requirements and completing the necessary training.<\/p>\n
\u2022 For the staff of the Presidency of the Republic, the application of Article 12 of Presidential Decree 351\/1991 is reinstated.<\/p>\n
\u2022 After approximately a decade, the salary regime for Archbishops of the Church of Greece is being redefined, with the unification of salaries and the abolition of additional benefits.<\/p>\n
\u2022 In accordance with established case law, the issue of salary progression for judicial officials is resolved, who, although they have completed the time required by law for promotion to the next grade in their respective branch, are not promoted due to a lack of vacancies.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The entry-level pay scale for judicial employees in the Documentation and Judicial Support Branch is redefined.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Regulations from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport are introduced regarding compensation for Air Traffic Controllers in cases of childbirth or postpartum leave, the determination of special compensation, compensation for loss of specialty, and compensation due to death.<\/p>\n
3) Strengthening of the Gaming Supervision and Control Commission (E.E.E.P.)<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Creation of new permanent positions and regulations regarding personnel matters. Specifically, the total number of permanent positions at the Commission is increasing from 80 today to 110. Of these, 70 positions are for administrative staff and the remaining 40 are for specialized scientific staff with expertise in gaming.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Possibility of staff transfer to the Hellenic Gaming Commission (E.E.E.P.), following a relevant application and evaluation by a five-member Committee.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Provisions regarding the Committee\u2019s operation, operating regulations, and regulatory powers.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Following the consent of the E.E.E.P., the national strategy for responsible gaming is formulated. The Authority is empowered to enter into contracts for supplies and services\u2014such as studies, research, and initiatives\u2014as part of its supervisory role in combating illegal gambling and addressing addiction.<\/p>\n
Measures to control illegal online activity<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Compilation of a list of unlicensed gambling providers (\u201cblacklist\u201d), blocking of access, and domain name monitoring.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Regulation regarding seized player funds, addressing the issue of the freezing or seizure of player accounts by the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR).<\/p>\n
– Administrative sanctions and controls:<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Imposition of administrative sanctions on internet service providers and advertisers associated with the illegal organization and operation of gambling.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Imposition of a fixed fine ranging from 1,000 to 2,000,000 euros per violation or per gaming machine, depending on the severity and frequency of the violation.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Temporary revocation of a license for up to three months or permanent revocation, depending on the severity and frequency of the violation.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Those who illegally advertise gambling through online channels\u2014such as influencers, streamers, digital ad networks, affiliates, and advertisers\u2014are subject to a fine of 5,000 to 50,000 euros per violation.<\/p>\n
– Criminal penalties:<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 For illegal non-gambling games, the penalty is imprisonment for at least three years and a fine ranging from 10,000 to 500,000 euros. To date, the fine in such cases ranged from 100,000 to 200,000 euros per gaming machine or from 200,000 to 500,000 euros for online operations.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Illegal gambling is punishable by imprisonment for at least ten years and a fine ranging from 50,000 to 700,000 euros. Currently, the applicable regime provides for a fine of 700,000 euros and a prison sentence of ten years.<\/p>\n
\u2022 If the organization of illegal gambling is carried out professionally, on a commercial scale, with the participation of underage players, or in an establishment that reopens after a seal has been broken, the penalty is imprisonment for at least ten years and a fine ranging from 100,000 to 800,000 euros. Currently, no such escalation is provided for.<\/p>\n
\u2022 The prison sentence for those who organize games of chance without the required licenses and\/or certifications is set at a minimum of one year and is accompanied by a fine. If the games organized are games of chance, imprisonment of at least two years and a fine are prescribed.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Anyone who participates in a game of chance organized without a license is punishable by imprisonment for up to two years and a fine, which in the case of a repeat offense increases from 5,000 to 20,000 euros.<\/p>\n
– Investigative powers:<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Investigative powers are granted to the Gaming Control Board.<\/p>\n
Taxation of winnings<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 Taxation on the winnings of online casino-style gambling players is increased.<\/p>\n
Pension provisions for public sector retirees who died in service and related categories<\/b><\/p>\n
A series of provisions in the bill resolves issues regarding pension adjustments following the implementation of new salary laws for military personnel and those legallythose falling under the jurisdiction of the General Accounting Office, such as those who died in service or persons receiving the relevant pension due to death, as well as war pensioners and other categories.<\/p>\n
4) Other measures<\/b><\/p>\n
\u2022 The proposed provisions update the legislative framework governing the foreshore and beaches, with the primary aim of protecting their public character, ensuring the rational use of public property, and creating conditions for the balanced and sustainable development of business activity. In this context, targeted technical improvements are being introduced to ensure more effective implementation of the framework; these relate to the composition of the committees responsible for defining the boundaries of the foreshore, beach, and riverbank boundaries, and the remote detection of violations using modern technological means. Furthermore, regulations are introduced to relieve the burden on the Land Registry Services, faster service for businesses operating in coastal zones, and a smoother transition for these businesses to the new institutional framework.<\/b> Finally, provisions with a strong social focus are introduced to support the development of business activities in areas affected by severe weather “Daniel,” in order to protect the economic viability of these businesses.<\/p>\n
\u2022 Practical issues that have arisen during the implementation to date of the procedure for granting and refunding advances to electricity suppliers as well as the process for the settlement of bills by General Government entities, while a provision is introduced regarding how the Ministry of National Economy and Finance will henceforth settle outstanding electricity bills of entities not belonging to the Central Administration, following confirmation of the debts to the tax authority, with the aim of reducing overdue debts.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
A \u20ac300 adjustment allowance for public sector employees instead of a “personal differential,” extension of arrangements for Swiss franc loans, increase in the unseizable portion, …<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":11034,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-11033","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-politics"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11033","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=11033"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11033\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/11034"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=11033"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=11033"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/en.tomanifesto.gr\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=11033"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}