Greece is experiencing a notable shift in migration trends, marking the first time in nearly two decades that it records a brain gain instead of brain drain.
Eurostat data highlights that approximately 350,000 out of the 600,000 Greeks who migrated abroad between 2010 and 2021 have now returned, marking a significant reversal of talent loss experienced during the financial downturn.
According to recent data from 2023, sourced from Greece in Figures, 47,200 Greek nationals repatriated during that year, outnumbering the 32,800 who chose to depart. This reversal represents the largest influx of returning citizens since data collection began in 2008, signaling a pivotal moment for the country’s demographic dynamics.
The shift stands in stark contrast to the years following the 2008 economic crisis, which saw Greece grappling with a severe brain drain. Between 2010 and 2022, over a million working-age Greeks sought opportunities abroad, predominantly from the highly productive 25-44 age bracket. This exodus peaked during 2013-2016 amid soaring unemployment and economic instability, prompting many to seek better prospects beyond Greece’s borders.
A recent study by the Institute for Alternative Policies (ENA) reported that between 2010 and 2022, 1.08 million working-age people left the country, of which 234,058 were aged 15-24, 633,680 were aged 25-44 years old, and 212,254 were aged 45-64.
Although emigration rates showed some decline from 2019 to 2022 compared to the crisis peak, the departure of skilled professionals persisted. During this period, 283,801 working-age individuals left, highlighting ongoing challenges in retaining top talent.
These trends underscore Greece’s struggle to compete in the global labor market despite initiatives such as the Rebrain Greece Initiative launched by Athens in 2023. The digital platform aims to reconnect skilled expatriates with career opportunities back home, bolstered by tax incentives designed to facilitate their return.
To encourage Greeks to return home, the scheme offers a wage subsidy to 500 of those deemed the brightest and best. It offers a monthly salary of €3,000 (before tax) if they return to Greece as part of the project. The labor ministry will cover 70 percent of the cost.
Last month, Greece launched an initiative aimed at encouraging the repatriation of Greek doctors trained in the U.S. by simplifying the process of recognizing their medical qualifications in Greece.
‘A road is paved for the repatriation of distinguished scientists from the United States who want to return to our country and want to support the National Healthcare System,” PM Mitsotakis said. “We want these scientists to see their future in our country.”
Professor Lois Lambrinidis, an expert on economic geography, notes that while some returnees face underemployment due to Greece’s economic constraints, the motivations for repatriation often extend beyond career prospects to personal or family reasons. This multifaceted return of expatriates, many of whom left during the crisis years to study or work abroad, signals a promising trend as Greece enters a new phase of economic recovery and growth.
This resurgence of returnees not only underscores Greece’s improving economic conditions but also reflects renewed confidence and opportunities, drawing Greeks back to their homeland.
This shift marks a pivotal moment for Greece, highlighting its evolving demographic landscape and efforts to reclaim talent essential for its future prosperity.
Related: Study Finds Brain Drain is the Biggest Worry of Greeks and Other Europeans
