Greece Ends Three-Year Cut-Off for Survivor Pensions

Greece's Minister of Labor, Niki Kerameus, has announced a significant regulatory change that ends the uncertainty surrounding survivor pensions. Speaking from Parliament, Kerameus confirmed a new measure that abolishes the controversial three-year cut-off for these pensions, a provision previously established under the "Katrougalos law."

"We are definitively abolishing the reduction of survivor pensions after three years, as stipulated in the Katrougalos law," Kerameus declared. This announcement directly addresses concerns arising from a recent decision by the Council of State, Greece's supreme administrative court.

The new regulation ensures that beneficiaries will continue to receive 70% of the deceased spouse's pension. This contrasts sharply with the previous law, which mandated a reduction to 35% after three years. The ministry clarified that no retroactive payments will be demanded from those who have already received survivor pensions under the old rules.

This legislative move aims to provide financial stability and security for surviving spouses, removing a source of anxiety and financial strain. The decision is expected to be welcomed by many who rely on these pensions.

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We are definitively abolishing the reduction of survivor pensions after three years, as stipulated in the Katrougalos law.