Shipowners against taxing foreign crews
The Union of Greek Shipowners intends to hold talks with the government on the taxation of foreign seamen working on Greek-flagged ships, an issue that has seen the emergence of significant opposition among its members.
According to the provision of the country’s new Income Tax Code, non-Greek seamen employed on Greek-registered vessels will now have to pay income tax here, even though they used to be exempt.
Shipping sources say this constitutes a global first for Greece, as in order for the employees to be taxed, they would first need to get a residence permit as most originate from non-European Union countries. The measure may result in ships joining other registers instead.
