Greece · Business / work

Is arriving late to a meeting polite in Greece?

Fashionably late expectedHigh confidence

Explanation

In Greek business culture, arriving 10–15 minutes late to a meeting is common and often expected, as punctuality is flexible and relationships take precedence over strict schedules. This reflects the polychronic time orientation where social interactions and rapport-building are prioritized over rigid adherence to the clock. However, for very formal meetings with foreign partners or high-level officials, arriving on time shows respect.

Varies locally: In northern Greece (e.g., Thessaloniki), punctuality may be slightly more valued due to closer ties with Central European business norms.

Local Tip

Aim to arrive 10 minutes late for most business meetings, but always call ahead if you will be more than 15 minutes late.

How it compares elsewhere

Japan

Punctuality is critical; even one minute late is disrespectful.

Germany

Being late is seen as unprofessional and a sign of poor planning.

Brazil

Similar to Greece, arriving 15–30 minutes late is common in business settings.

AI-generated guidance — customs evolve and vary between people. Treat as a helpful starting point, not absolute rules.

Frequently asked

Is arriving late to a meeting polite in Greece?

Fashionably late expected. In Greek business culture, arriving 10–15 minutes late to a meeting is common and often expected, as punctuality is flexible and relationships take precedence over strict schedules. This reflects the polychronic time orientation where social interactions and rapport-building are prioritized over rigid adherence to the clock. However, for very formal meetings with foreign partners or high-level officials, arriving on time shows respect.

What should I do instead in Greece?

Aim to arrive 10 minutes late for most business meetings, but always call ahead if you will be more than 15 minutes late.

Does arriving late mean the same everywhere in Greece?

In northern Greece (e.g., Thessaloniki), punctuality may be slightly more valued due to closer ties with Central European business norms.

Want to check a different gesture, country, or situation?

Check it on IsItPolite →

More etiquette in Greece

Tipping in GreeceThumbs up in GreeceShowing soles of feet in GreeceEating with the left hand in GreecePatting someone's head in GreeceDirect eye contact in Greece

“Arriving late” in other countries

Arriving late in JapanArriving late in ChinaArriving late in ThailandArriving late in IndiaArriving late in South KoreaArriving late in France

See the full Greece etiquette guide →