There is no specific mention of sex work in Greek Migration Law. Art. 3386, on the ‘Entrance and stay of aliens on Greek soil (dominion) as well as the acquisition of the Greek citizenship’ from 23 August 2005, is the most recent example of Greek legislation on a crucial issue for Greek society, as it addresses the status of legal, but more importantly of illegal, ‘aliens’ in Greece. This legislation does not apply to: Individuals ruled by the legislation of the EEC/EU (European Community legislation); refugees or on individuals that have applied for refugee status according to the Geneva Convention of 1951.

Citizens from other countries who have legally entered the Greek dominion can be granted permission to stay in Greece in order to do a legal work.

Deportation (expulsion) of a citizen from another country can be ordered if convicted for penal offences or if their presence in the Greek dominion is considered a threat to the security of the Greek state or public security, or even if the person is suffering from a disease considered a threat to the public health according to international Health Regulations and the World Health Organisation and if the person refuses to comply with the measures suggested by the medical authorities, although one has been properly informed and updated on one’s medical situation. Deportation/expulsion procedures may be temporarily postponed on humanitarian grounds, especially for issues relating to a person’s health, social or family life. Deportation of citizens from other countries who agree to cooperate with the authorities in order to punish acts of persuading or forcing prostitution may be postponed. Deportation is prohibited if the person is: (a) a minor and one’s parents legally reside in Greece; (b) over 80 years of age; (c) a parent of a Greek citizen of minor age and the person is responsible for the minor’s upbringing.

Hotel managers, directors of clinics and health institutes are obliged to inform the authorities of the arrival or departure of citizens from other countries that they host. Those working illegally in Greece are subject to deportation – and the same applies to sex work – with the exception of the persons considered to be trafficked. Victims of trafficking have special rights. They are entitled to a residence permit until the legal procedure begins in order to decide whether to act as a witness. During this period (of three months) they are given medical aid, support and shelter.

EU citizens, who wish to stay in the country for more than three months, must have a health insurance in order to get the residence permit. Those without legal status in Greece are not permitted to work as a sex worker.