Title
European Union Labour Force Survey 2017
EU-LFS 2017 contains the Ad hoc module on Self-employment.
Geographical Coverage
The EU-LFS 2017 covers all 28 EU Member States as well as Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.
Time Period Covered
The EU-LFS 2017 "is designed as a continuous quarterly survey with interviews spread uniformly over all weeks of a quarter. Each reference week starts on Monday and ends on Sunday. The first week of a year or quarter is defined as the week that includes the first Thursday of the year or the quarter. All countries conduct the LFS as a continuous survey." (Eurostat (2019): Quality report of the European Union Labour Force Survey 2017, p. 7)
Country Specific Information: EU-LFS 2017
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LV - Latvia
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Latvijas Statistika
Universe
The target population comprises all persons aged 15 to 74 years who are permanently resident in Latvia. Persons temporarily absent for one year or more are excluded.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population register and the National Real Estate Cadastre Information System
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region, urban/rural
Number Of Rotational Groups
2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 79.7 % CAPI
- 20.3 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
35 %
Weighting: Method
“The initial weights are calculated according to the sample design, with all persons within the same PSU having equal design weights. The design weights are adjusted using the data of response level in each stratum for each wave and each survey technique (CAPI/CATI). These quarterly weights are then adjusted on the basis of demographic data and data of the State employment agency and of the State Revenue Service. Yearly weights are calculated as quarterly weights divided by four.
For adjustment of the quarterly weights demographic data are broken down by the type of municipality (Riga, cities, towns, rural areas), as in stratification, 14 age groups and sex as well as in NUTS3 (6 regions), 3 age groups, eight cities of Republic, the information from the State employment agency by sex and 5 age groups and the information from the State Revenue Service by sex and 7 age groups.
All persons within the same household have equal initial and final weights.”
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.33).
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LU - Luxembourg
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey/
Erhebung über Arbeitskräfte
Producer
infas Institute for Applied Social Sciences
Universe
The resident population comprises persons registered as residing in one of the municipalities. The sampling frame covers only private households in Luxembourg. The cross-border workers are not taken into account.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population register
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- not stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Number Of Rotational Groups
5
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 48.6 % CATI
- 51.4 % Self-administered
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
28.3 %
Weighting: Method
"Data from the survey are post-stratified by sex, age classes: (0-14, 15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65+), household size and nationality (national/foreigner). All persons of these strata have the same weight, calculated by dividing the population in each stratum by the number of interviewed persons in the same stratum."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.37)
-
LT - Lithuania
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Statistical Survey
Producer
Statistics Lithuania
Universe
Only private households are surveyed. The target population comprises all persons usually living in the households of the selected dwellings, including those who are temporarily abroad for a period of less than a year. The population also includes foreign nationals who have been living in Lithuania for at least one year.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Register
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Number Of Rotational Groups
4, 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
33.7 %
Weighting: Method
"The weighting method for the Lithuanian LFS is based on the generalised calibration method introduced by Deville and Särndal in 1992. The initial household design weights are calculated, taking into account the unequal selection probabilities of the households. These are then adjusted by the use of auxiliary information relating to population data on 60 municipalities and the intersection of 13 age-groups, sex and urban/rural. All household members have the same sampling weight."
Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 35)
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HR - Croatia
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Central Bureau of Statistics
Universe
The target population comprises all persons who usually reside in Croatia or intend to stay in Croatia for at least 12 months. Only private households are surveyed. Household members are persons who are permanently present in the household or absent less than 1 year.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Census 2011.
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS2), urban/rural areas
Number Of Rotational Groups
4; 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 58.5 % CAPI
- 41.5 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
50 %
Weighting: Method
"The weights are calculated in several steps.
First, design weights as inverse value of the selection probabilities of choosing dwellings in a sample are calculated. They are equal for dwellings, households and persons in one segment. That’s because all households and persons in each selected dwelling are interviewed.
Then, there are defined weighting groups regarding non-response, and response rates are calculated for each of these groups. The urban part of each 21 county form one group while the rural parts in each county form the second group. As there are 21 counties, multiplying 2 groups (urban and rural) gives 42 groups within counties for defining non-response rates (and calculating response rates in each one). Non-response weights are inverse value of these response rates. They are also equal for each segment.At the end, calibration is used for adjustment weighting. Distributions of the 5-year age groups, gender, regions and household size for the subsample of respondents is calibrated to known auxiliary information from Census 2011. It reduces sampling error, effecting the ‘old’ weights, but in limits of previously defined constraints in CALMAR software. Bounded linear method is used for calibration, and lower limit is set on 0.5, and upper on 3."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.)
-
RO - Romania
Corresponding National Study
Romanian Labour Force Survey
Producer
National Instititue of Statistics Romania
Universe
The whole country is covered and only private households are surveyed. The target population comprises persons resident in Romania. The survey covers all members of the selected households including the persons absent from home for a longer period, living inside the country or abroad (for the latter, only if the total duration of staying abroad is less than 12 months), if they are preserving family relations with the household to which they belong, such as: pupils and students away for study, persons left for work, prisoners, persons temporary in hospitals or sanatoria for medical cure.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Census 2011
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Census sections
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwelling clusters
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS3), urban/rural
Number Of Rotational Groups
4; 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 100 % PAPI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
19.9 %
Weighting: Method
"The weights are calculated in three steps:
- The first step assigns the inverse of the selection probabilities to each sampled dwelling unit.
- The second step adjusts for non-response, categorising the responding dwelling units by the following characteristics: county (NUTS3) and urban/rural residency.
- The third and final step consists in calibrating the secondary weights to the best latest available population totals by region, urban-rural residency, gender, 14 age groups (0-14, 15-19, …, 70-74, 75 and older) and to the household totals by region, using the SAS macro Calmar.
The current demographic statistics used to calibrate the LFS estimates also include the institutional population."
Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 51)
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NO - Norway
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Statistics Norway
Universe
The target population is total population aged 15-74, residing in Norway (according to the Central Population Register). The survey covers private and collective households. The definition of household used is concept of housekeeping unit (i.e. persons living in the same dwelling with joint board).
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Register
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Households
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
County (NUTS3)
Number Of Rotational Groups
8
Date of Data Collection
Continious survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Register,Survey
Interview Mode
- 100 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
16.7 %
Weighting: Method
"The initial weights are adjusted by post-stratification according to age, sex and employment status, altogether 96 (=2*12*4) post-strata. The variables used for post-stratification are based on information from the Central Population Register, the Register of Employees and the Tax
Register. Finally, the post-stratification adjusted weights are calibrated within each of the 19 counties, which is equivalent to the NUTS3 level, with respect to the marginal totals of the same auxiliary variables."
Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 65)
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HU - Hungary
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Hungarian Central Statistical Office
Universe
The survey covers the whole country. Only private households are surveyed. The household is a community of persons who share partly or entirely their continuous lifestyle costs, i.e. members of the same income and consumer community.
Source Of Sampling Frame
2011 Population and Housing Census
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Administrative units, size categories of localities
Number Of Rotational Groups
6
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 71.7 % CAPI
- 28.3 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
41.3 %
Weighting: Method
"At the first stage, design (or design-based) weights are determined. For any stratum of the sample, the unique design weight is defined as the ratio of the total number of dwellings in the stratum to that in the sub-sample for that stratum. Some adjustments are also included at this stage.
At the second stage, calibrated weights are determined with the method of generalised raking. The calibration is organised so that all members in a sample household have the same calibrated weight as that household.
Method of deriving controls: demographic components method combined with census-based proportions."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 39)
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FR - France
Corresponding National Study
Questionnaire logement de l’enquête emploi /
Housing Survey of Employment Survey
Producer
National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies
Universe
The survey covers private households living in their main residence in France. The resident population comprises persons living on French metropolitan territory and in the overseas departments. All individuals 15 years old or over in the household are surveyed.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Tax register for Metropolitan France and annual census survey for DOM.
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
French region (NUTS2 - Metrop.) + infra NUTS3 (DOM)
Number Of Rotational Groups
6
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 40 % CAPI
- 60 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
25.6 %
Weighting: Method
“Weighting procedures are different for Metropolitan France and overseas departments.
For Metropolitan France, a unique calibration is performed both to correct biases induced by non-response and to get consistency with external margins. The procedure is performed on each wave. The variables used are those indicated above: some are derived from the sample base (region, dwelling characteristics and income of the household in deciles) and the others are external margins (population by sex, age and region). Another correction for non-response is made using the answers to the “non-response survey” (NRS): the employment and unemployment ratios are adjusted to the ones obtained when including the respondents to the NRS survey within the LFS.
For overseas departments, weights are first adjusted by using an estimation of response probabilities, and are next calibrated on external margins. The procedure is performed on three groups of waves (1, 2 to 5, 6). Variables used for correction of non-response are derived from the sample base (region, individual house or building, response at the previous wave of interrogation). Variables used for calibration are external margins (population by sex, age and region; population by diploma; population by birthplace; individual house or building).”
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p 25.)
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BG - Bulgaria
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Universe
Only private households are included. The resident population includes all persons usually residing in Bulgaria, including persons temporarily abroad (less than one year).
Source Of Sampling Frame
2011 Population Census
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Census enumeration units
Secondary Sampling Units
Households
Stratification Criteria
Administrative districts, type of place of residence
Number Of Rotational Groups
4 (2-(2)-2 rotation pattern)
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 100 % PAPI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
21.9 %
Weighting: Method
“The weights are calculated in three steps:
1. Initial weights are obtained as inverse of inclusion probability of each household.
2. The initial weights are multiplied by correction factor for households' non-response which is calculated separately for each wave as ratio between the total number of selected households in a stratum and the number of interviewed households from the same stratum.
3. In final step the intermediate weights (corrected for non-response) are calibrated to the population estimates by the following variables: at national level by 5-year age group, sex and type of place of residence (urban/rural); at district level (NUTS3) by 3 age groups (0-14, 15-64, 65+), sex and type of place of residence (urban/rural).
For calculation of weights, the population estimates at the end of the previous quarter are used.”
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 9)
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BE - Belgium
Corresponding National Study
Continuous Labour Force Survey /
Ständige Erhebung über Arbeitskräfte /
ENQUÊTE CONTINUE SUR LES FORCES DE TRAVAIL /
DOORLOPENDE ENQUÊTE NAAR DE ARBEIDSKRACHTEN
Producer
economie
Universe
Private households, where at least one person is younger than 77.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Register
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Municipality
Secondary Sampling Units
Households
Stratification Criteria
Region
Number Of Rotational Groups
2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 29 % CAPI
- 36 % CATI
- 35 % Websurvey
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
18.9 %
Weighting: Method
“The 2-step quarterly weighting model can be formulated as: < IND; STRAT12 × SEX × AGECAT + RG_c; d/p; Lin >.The third component, d/p, in this formal representation of the weighting model, means that, in step 1, the sampling weights d are corrected using estimated response probabilities p at household level; a random intercept logistic regression model, followed by smoothing, is used to estimate the p.
In step 2, proper calibration is applied to further adjust the corrected weights d/p. The first component IND indicates that calibration is at individual level. The second component is a formal expression for the linear structure of the calibration model in step 2, indicating that:
- calibration is to the joint distribution of variables STRAT12, SEX and AGECAT in the population;
- the totals of calibrated weights for the rotation groups (RGs) involved in each quarterly sample are forced to be proportional to the initial sizes of these RGs (the notation RG_c stands for “contrast constraints between RGs”).
The fourth and last component, Lin, indicates the use of the linear method for calibration.”
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.7)
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DE - Germany
Corresponding National Study
Mikrozensus
Producer
Statistische Ämter des Bundes und der Länder
Universe
The resident population (statistical population) includes all inhabitants with their main place of residence and their secondary residence in the territory of Germany. Foreign armed forces and members of the diplomatic corps and their families are excluded.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Census 2011 updated with data from building licenses.
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Dwelling blocks
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Region and size of building
Number Of Rotational Groups
4
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 68 % CAPI
- 3 % CATI
- 29 % Self-administered
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
25.8 %
Weighting: Method
“A two-stage adjustment procedure is used.
(a) Where possible, data are collected for households which fail to respond. These data can include: number of members of the household, nationality (German/foreigner), and for households comprising only one person: age (under or over 60 years) and sex. From this data, the weights of respondent households are increased to take account of non-responses in the region.
(b) The sample, weighted to take account of non-response, is stratified a-posteriori by region, sex, age (<15, 15-44, 45+) and nationality (German/EU foreigners/non-EU foreigners except Turkey/Turkish) and is extrapolated to the population (adjusted in respect of military personnel)."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 15)
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DK - Denmark
Corresponding National Study
Labour market status
Producer
Statistics Denmark
Universe
The entire country is covered, apart from Greenland and the Faroe Islands. The survey covers persons living in either private or collective households with domicile in Denmark according to the Central Population Register.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Register and other registers.
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Gross income, net unemployment from registers, socioeconomic status and age.
Number Of Rotational Groups
2-(2)-2.
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Register,Survey
Interview Mode
- 57 % CATI
- 43 % Websurvey
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
7.7 %
Weighting: Method
"The strata are weighted separately. Weighting is performed by using a combination of sex, age group (15-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-74), socioeconomic status, income, nationality, level of education, status in the unemployment register and
region."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 13)
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FI - Finland
Corresponding National Study
Finnish Labour Force Survey
Producer
Statistics Finland
Universe
The target population comprises people aged 15 to 74 who are registered as permanently resident in Finland, including those who are temporarily abroad for a period of less than a year, members of the armed forces, and the institutional population. It also includes foreign nationals who have been living in Finland for at least a year or intend to do so. Persons living in institutions cannot be separated from the total population.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population register
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS1)
Number Of Rotational Groups
3-(1)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Register,Survey
Interview Mode
- 100 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
52.6 %
Weighting: Method
"The weighting procedure is carried out in two steps:
- Post-stratified weights: The 240 post-strata are constructed by sex (2), age group (6) and region (20).
- Calibrated weights: The post-stratified weights are calibrated according to gender, age group, region, reference week and status in Ministry of Labour’s job-seeker register.
Specific weighting procedures are adopted for the household sub-sample and for the sub-sample of structural variables collected by the wave approach."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 57)
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IE - Ireland
Corresponding National Study
Quarterly National Household Survey
Producer
Central Statistics Office Ireland
Universe
Only private households are included. A person is defined to be a 'Usual Resident' of a private household if he/she (i) lives regularly at the dwelling in question and (ii) shares the main living accommodation (i.e. kitchen, living room or bathroom) with the other members of the household.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Census 2011
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Dwelling blocks
Secondary Sampling Units
Households
Stratification Criteria
Region, Pobal HP Deprivation Index
Number Of Rotational Groups
5
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 83.6 % CAPI
- 16.4 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
46.6 %
Weighting: Method
"The survey results are weighted to agree with population estimates broken down by age (5-years age groups), sex and region (NUTS3 regions). Results are then calibrated to broad national totals by broad age groups (0-14 and 15+) and gender. The estimates are calculated as follows:
1. The previous quarter’s population estimate or census of population at regional level is used as the base population.
2. A quarter of this population is aged on by 1 year.
3. Births for the relevant period are added to each region – source = registered births.
4. Deaths for relevant period are subtracted from each region – source = registered deaths.
5. Net migration (inflows from other regions minus outflows to other regions plus inflows from abroad minus outflows to abroad) is added to each region – main source.
A non-response adjustment into the weighting procedure for the LFS was introduced from Q3 2017 onwards. The adjustment applies extra weight to the groups who tend to be less likely to respond to the survey to make the results from the achieved sample more representative of the target sample and target population."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 19)
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AT - Austria
Corresponding National Study
Mikrozensus
Producer
Statistik Austria
Universe
Only the population in private households is included. The resident population comprises persons who have their main residence on Austrian territory during the reference week.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Register of Residents
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Bundesland (NUTS2)
Number Of Rotational Groups
5
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 35.8 % CAPI
- 64.2 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
25.5 %
Weighting: Method
"The weights are calculated in two steps. In the first step for each record a basic weight which depends on the stratum and the domain is calculated.
In the second step the weights are adjusted so that the resulting distribution is in accordance to the population within the federal provinces (Bundesländer, NUTS2). [...]
Calibration is performed by iterative proportional fitting."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 45)
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CZ - Czech Republic
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Czech Statistical Office
Universe
All persons usually living in the selected dwellings, regardless of the type of their stay there (permanent, temporary or non-registered). Temporarily absent persons (for less than one year) and domestic servants are included. It does not cover persons (students, workers, migrants) living in collective accommodation. Lodgers are considered as independent budget-keeping households. People living abroad are excluded.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Register of Census Areas
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Census enumeration units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region (districts, Prague 1 district)
Number Of Rotational Groups
5
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 23 % CAPI
- 24 % CATI
- 45 % PAPI
- 8 % Self-administered
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
35 %
Weighting: Method
"The weights are based on post-stratification to 12 age groups, sex and the 77 districts. Demographic figures for each quarter in 2017 were forecasted from the definitive demographic data for end-of-year 2016, taken into account migration and natural increase of the population."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 11)
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CY - Cyprus
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Statistical Service of Cyprus, Ministry of Finance
Universe
The resident population comprises persons who usually reside in Cyprus or intend to stay in Cyprus for at least 12 months. It excludes Cypriot students studying abroad as well as foreign armed forces and foreigners who work in embassies or diplomatic missions.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Census 2011 updated with register of domestic consumers of electricity
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Households
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Districts, urban/rural
Number Of Rotational Groups
6
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 16.7 % CAPI
- 83.3 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
34.9 %
Weighting: Method
"The design weights, i.e. the inverse of the probabilities of inclusion of the households in the sample are calculated and adjusted for non-response in each stratum. The adjusted weights for non-response are then calibrated."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 31)
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SE - Sweden
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey/
Arbetskraftsundersökningen
Producer
Statistics Sweden
Universe
Through sampling of individuals, persons living in both private and collective households are covered. Persons living in a collective household are also recorded in the central population register and are therefore sampled as well as persons living in private households. The resident population for the purposes of the survey comprises persons between the ages of 15 and 74 who are domiciled in Sweden according to the population register.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population register
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Sex, age group, region, country of birth
Sampling Method
Regular LFS sample + supplementary sample
Number Of Rotational Groups
8
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Register,Survey
Interview Mode
- 39 % CAPI
- 61 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
2.6 %
Weighting: Method
"The estimates are built on regression estimators (GREG) with a set of auxiliary information. The auxiliary variables are: sex, age (13 age groups), region (NUTS3), nationality at birth, information on employed persons by industry and persons who have enrolled at a job-centre as unemployed and are looking for work. The registers which are used to obtain the auxiliary variables are the Register of Total Population (RTB), the Employment Register (RAMS) and the Swedish Public Employment Service´s register of job-seekers (SOK).
Each month the last wave of the individual LFS-sample is used as the starting point for identifying sampled households, i.e. the household sample is a network sample. The weights are based on the calibration approach for two-phase sampling in Estevao and Särndal (2002). Design weights according to the network sampling design, adjusted for nonresponse at the household level, are used as starting weights in the calibration. Only information at the individual level is used in the calibration."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 59)
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SI - Slovenia
Producer
Statistical Office of the Republic of Slovenia
Universe
The survey covers the whole country. Only individuals in private households are surveyed. Members of the household temporarily absent for a period exceeding 12 months (in nursing home, prison, student accommodation) and persons living in other countries are excluded from the survey. Foreign nationals are included, if they correspond to the criteria of household. For the household members up to 15 years old only few questions are asked.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Central Population Register of the Republic of Slovenia
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Addresses
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS3), size and type of settlement (urban/rural)
Number Of Rotational Groups
5; 3-(1)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 39 % CAPI
- 61 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
52.3 %
Weighting: Method
"The data are weighted for unequal probability of selection and for non-response and calibrated according to the known population distribution: age groups (0-14, 15-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+), sex and region (NUTS3 level). The calibration is done on a household level,
with members of the same household thus receiving identical weights, and benchmarked to population totals. Institutional population is included in population totals."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 53)
-
SK - Slovakia
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey/
pracovných síl
Producer
Statistical Office of the Slovac Republic
Universe
The target population of the survey is every person aged 15 and over, living in the household of the selected dwelling without regard to permanent, temporary or unregistered stays. Data for students living in hostels, schoolchildren at boarding schools and persons living temporarily in worker homes are collected within the households to which they belong. Inmates of prison or mental institutions, and foreign citizens staying temporarily are not surveyed.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Census 2011
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Census enumeration units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS4)
Number Of Rotational Groups
5
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 30.3 % CAPI
- 29.6 % CATI
- 40.1 % PAPI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
49.9 %
Weighting: Method
"Data from the survey for all persons participating in the survey are weighted by administrative data on total population (including institutional population) as of 1 January 2017 by region, sex and age groups. Extrapolation to the population is done at the level of individuals.
The population and the sample are subjected of a post-stratification by NUTS3 administrative region (8 regions altogether), sex and 5-years age groups."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 55)
-
IS - Iceland
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Statistics Iceland
Universe
Since beginning of the year 2011 the survey covers persons aged 16-74 years in both private and collective households. The resident population comprises persons registered with domicile in Iceland, excluding persons attached to foreign missions and registered persons living abroad for more than six months, but including Icelandic personnel in missions abroad.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Register
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- not stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
No stratification.
Number Of Rotational Groups
5; 3-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Register,Survey
Interview Mode
- 100 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
1.2 %
Weighting: Method
"The a posteriori stratification variables are 5-years age groups and sex.
The weighting factors are calculated as follows:
w = N(sa)/[n(sa) + n'(sa)]
where N = population, s = sex, a = age, n = sample size and n' = estimated over-coverage (i.e. registered persons living abroad for more than six months as detected in the field work)."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 63)
-
UK - Great Britain
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Office for National Statistics
Universe
The survey covers private households and includes persons who are temporarily absent. Students living in university accommodation (e.g. halls of residence) are sampled via their parents living in private households. In Great Britain, an additional sample is drawn to cover persons living in National Health Service/Hospital Trust accommodation.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Postal addresses / telephone numbers / housing units
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Addresses
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Local areas
Sampling Method
Northern Ireland: single random sampling design
For north of Scotland: telephone number is PSU
Number Of Rotational Groups
5: 3-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 41.2 % CAPI
- 58.8 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
33 %
Weighting: Method
"The adjustment procedure is based on a three-stage a posteriori stratification. In each case, figures are based on independent demographic estimates.
(a) The stratification variable for the first stage is the Local Authority District or Unitary Authority. This stage makes it possible to make adjustments for different rates of non-response in the various local authority areas and ensures that the results are geographically representative.
(b) The second-stage variables are sex and age group (0-15, each year of age in the 16-24 group and 25+). This stratification is intended to ensure that the age profile of the 16-24 year olds is correct at national level.
(c) The variables in the third stage are region, sex and 5-years age group.
The three stages are applied by means of an iterative procedure designed to ensure that the estimates are consistent with the stratification variable sets."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 61)
-
IT - Italy
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Italian National Institute of Statistics
Universe
The reference population is the resident population, which is the population recorded in the registry offices in the Italian municipalities. All the Italian regions are covered. Only private households are included in the sample. Private households are made up either of persons living alone or of two or more persons, whether or not of the same family, usually living in the same dwelling and with family (marriage, relationships, adoption, guardianship) or affection ties. Nonresident households, people not living in private households and household members emigrated abroad or absent from the selected household for more than one year are not covered. Students in tertiary education, studying away from their parents’ home, are included in the household.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Municipal registers
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Municipality
Secondary Sampling Units
Households
Stratification Criteria
Size categories of municipalities within NUTS3 region
Number Of Rotational Groups
4; 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 46.3 % CAPI
- 53.7 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
26.7 %
Weighting: Method
The calibration estimator is used to obtain LFS estimates. Grossing-up weights are determined as follows:
1. Firstly, initial weights are obtained as the inverse of the inclusion probabilities of any household in the sample.
2. Then, correction factors for households' non-response are worked out as the reciprocal of the response ratios (computed for specific kinds of households and territorial domains). Intermediate weights corrected for non-response are then computed multiplying initial weights by these correction factors.
3. Then, starting from intermediate weights, final grossing weights are obtained solving a minimisation problem under constraints. The function to be minimised is the distance between final and intermediate weights; the constraints regard the estimates of some auxiliary variables that have to be equal to the totals in the reference population derived from external sources. Main constraints are: (1) population by gender and 5-year age groups at NUTS2 level; (2) population by gender and 5 age groups at NUTS3 level. Final weights ensure that all members of a given household have the same weight.
Through the calibration estimator, applying final grossing-up weights, the sample reproduces the same distribution of the population according to the chosen auxiliary variables.
Grossing-up weights are computed on a monthly and on a quarterly basis, whereas annual estimates are calculated as averages of quarterly estimates.
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 29)
-
MT - Malta
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
National Statistics Office - Malta
Universe
The survey covers private households, including people who are temporarily absent from the usual place of residence. Children or any other members who are living in another dwelling or institution are excluded.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Census 2011 updated with demographic register
Sampling Design
Probability
- not stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Households
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
No stratification
Sampling Method
systematic random sampling
Number Of Rotational Groups
4, 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 75 % CATI
- 25 % PAPI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
45 %
Weighting: Method
"Prior to the compilation of weights, adjustment for non-response is done based on panel information to correct for sample bias arising out of differential non-response and non-representative probabilities of selection.
A posteriori stratification at one level is performed by sex, age-group and district. This allows the tabulation of estimates at national and district levels. The totals are benchmarked to Census Population Totals of persons living in private households only.
For weighting procedures, NUTS4 is used, gender and age groups (0-4, 5-9, 10-14, 15-17, 18-19, 20-24, 25-29, continue 5-years age groups until 75-79, 80+).
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.41)
-
PL - Poland
Corresponding National Study
Polish Labour Force Survey
Producer
Central Statistical Office Warszawa
Universe
The target population covers all persons aged 15 years and over with usual residence in Poland. Persons living in institutional households (army, hospital, prison, hostels etc.) are excluded from the survey if their length of stay in these institutions is planned to be longer than one year. The same applies to persons living permanently or temporarily (for more than one year) in other countries.
Source Of Sampling Frame
OBS - statistical sampling frame for social surveys
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Census enumeration units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region, urban/rural, urbanisation
Number Of Rotational Groups
4; 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 81.9 % CAPI
- 1.2 % CATI
- 16.9 % PAPI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
36.6 %
Weighting: Method
"The weights are computed using a four-step procedure. First the initial design weights are calculated for dwelling units, i.e., the inverse of the selection probabilities for the final sampling units in each stratum. Secondly, the weighted response rates are calculated for sampling units stratified a posteriori by six place-of-residence categories in each voivodship. Thirdly, the initial weights are adjusted by the response rates.
The final step consists in modifying the adjusted weights using the population estimates stratified a posteriori by the urban-rural division, sex and 12 age groups (15-17, 18-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, 35- 39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65+) plus three age groups (0-4, 5-9, 10-14) for children living in the surveyed households separately in each voivodship."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.47).
-
PT - Portugal
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Statistics Portugal
Universe
Only private dwellings are surveyed, although the survey also covers the individuals living in collective dwellings who represent a potential for the labour market, insofar as they have family links with the private dwellings (national servicemen or students). The resident population consists of individuals living in private dwellings during the reference week. Individuals who are absent for short periods of time (less than one year) and who are not occupying other dwellings permanently are also included.
Source Of Sampling Frame
National Dwellings Register (NDR)
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS3)
Number Of Rotational Groups
6
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 29.8 % CAPI
- 70.2 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
47.1 %
Weighting: Method
"The weight is derived as the product of a design weight (which incorporates design information and non-response) and a factor that calibrates the sample to the independent demographic estimates using a posteriori stratification method by: NUTS2, sex and 5-years age groups; NUTS3 (or groups of NUTS3) by six age groups; NUTS3 (or groups of NUTS3) by sex."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 49)
-
CH - Switzerland
Corresponding National Study
SLFS – Swiss Labour Force Survey /
SAKE – Schweizerische Arbeitskräfteerhebung
Producer
Federal Statistical Office FSO
Universe
The survey population consists of all persons living in private households aged 15 years and older. The Swiss LFS covers only the permanent resident population in Switzerland and excludes some categories of foreign persons. The permanent resident population includes all persons officially residing in Switzerland for the entire year. Swiss citizens, foreign citizens holding a permanent residence permit or a residence permit valid for at least one year, international civil servants, diplomats and their family members all fall into this category.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Sampling Frame for Person and Household Surveys
Sampling Design
Probability
- random
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Households
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Canton
Sampling Method
Standard sample + extra sample for foreign persons
Number Of Rotational Groups
4 (2-(2)-2 rotation pattern)
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 100 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
3.6 %
Weighting: Method
"The weighting procedure is based on a two-phase process. In a first step, the design weights are obtained as the reciprocal of the inclusion probability of the sample units. In a second step, these weights are adjusted for non-response, and finally the sample is calibrated on age, sex, canton of residence (NUTS3), and other variables (nationality, residence permit, duration of residence, marital status, labour market status, number of jobs, income decile, grade of invalidity to work, reception of invalidity or old age pension, registration at public employment office, duration of registration at public employment office, economic activity of the local unit, legal form of the local unit) using the calibration software CALMAR."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.67).
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ES - Spain
Corresponding National Study
Economically active population survey
Producer
Spanish Statistical Office
Universe
The population residing in private households is covered, including servants; persons living in collective households and persons who are temporarily absent are sampled via relatives living in private households. Foreign nationals are included in the resident population if they have lived or intend to live in Spain for more than one year. The household concept is based on the dwelling concept (all people living in the dwelling are interviewed).
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Census 2011 updated to the current period with population registers
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Population size of municipality
Sampling Method
Units are selected in such a way as to obtain self-weighted samples within each stratum. The first-stage units are selected with probability proportional to the size and second-stage units are selected with equal probability.
Number Of Rotational Groups
6
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 24.3 % CAPI
- 75.7 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
51.8 %
Weighting: Method
“The design uses Ratio Estimator and the auxiliary variable is the Population Projection at stratum level.
Every quarter, population projections by age group (0–15 years and 16 years +) and Spanish provinces (in general corresponding to NUTS3 regions) are calculated. Projections by age and region are distributed by stratum in proportion to the population of each stratum. In each stratum, age group and region, the weighting is determined by the ratio of the projection to the sample size.
The sample is then calibrated in order to adjust to the population distribution. Auxiliary information used is in the form of population estimates by sex and 5-years age groups and household size (5 groups of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5+ inhabitants) at NUTS2 level (Comunidades Autónomas), the nationality of the population aged 16 and more (national/non-national) at NUTS2 level and by sex and 3 aggregated age groups (16-29, 30-49, 50+) and region (NUTS3 or provinces).
A linear weighting method is used, in which each member of the household aged 16 years and over has the same weight.”
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p.23)
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NL - Netherlands
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey/
Enquête Beroepsbevolking
Producer
Statistics Netherlands
Universe
The resident population comprises persons residing in the Netherlands. The survey covers only private households. The private household comprises either persons living alone or two or more persons, whether or not they are of the same family, who usually occupy the same dwelling and share a joint budget.
Source Of Sampling Frame
List of postal addresses and population register.
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Municipality
Secondary Sampling Units
Addresses
Stratification Criteria
Region - Corop (NUTS3)
Number Of Rotational Groups
5
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 7 % CAPI
- 72 % CATI
- 21 % Websurvey
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
48.8 %
Weighting: Method
"Weighting of the respondents is done in two stages. In the first stage all respondents are assigned an inclusion weight. These inclusion weights are calculated in such a way that unequal inclusion probabilities that occur because of the sampling method are corrected. In the second stage final weights are determined. In this stage biases because of non-response are reduced. For this, information on gender, age, ethnic background, place of residence and some other regional classifications are used. In addition, administrative sources on the income and registration at unemployment office are used. Also information on the correlation in the panel-overlap between subsequent quarters is used and all waves together are weighted in one step."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 43)
-
EE - Estonia
Corresponding National Study
Estonian Labour Force Survey
Producer
Statistics Estonia
Universe
The survey covers the whole country. Both private and collective households are surveyed. The target population comprises all persons aged 15-74 years with permanent residence in Estonia, i.e. those who have lived or intend to live in Estonia for more than one year.
Source Of Sampling Frame
Population Census 2011 updated in 2017 with Population registers.
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- one stage
Primary Sampling Units
Individuals
Secondary Sampling Units
Not used
Stratification Criteria
Group of regions by population size
Number Of Rotational Groups
4; 2-(2)-2
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
No
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 52 % CAPI
- 48 % CATI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
38.2 %
Weighting: Method
“The weights are calculated in a sequence of steps.
As stratified sampling is used, the initial weight that is inversely proportional to the inclusion probability in each stratum is calculated first. The initial weight also depends on the size of the household.
For non-response adjustment, the non-response correction factors are computed. Homogeneous groups of respondents are formed on the basis of the household place of residence according to the non-response rate in the region. Within each group, the correction factor is inversely proportional to the overall response rate in the region.
In the next step, the weights are calibrated so that they produce exact population numbers in certain subgroups known from demographic data (including institutional population). For working-age persons the subgroups by sex, age (5-years age groups), place of residence (urban/rural area, 15 counties (NUTS4 level) and the capital city) and Estonians/non-Estonians are considered. For this purpose, the linear consistent weighting method is applied. For non-working-age persons, the non-response adjusted household's weights are calibrated by sex and 5-years age groups."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 17)
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EL - Greece
Corresponding National Study
Labour Force Survey
Producer
Hellenic Statistical Authority (EL.STAT)
Source Of Sampling Frame
Census 2011 updated in Q3 2016
Sampling Design
Probability
- systematic
- stratified
- multi-stage
Primary Sampling Units
Area units
Secondary Sampling Units
Dwellings
Stratification Criteria
Region (NUTS3) (23 strata for each) - Athens -Thessaloniki apart
Number Of Rotational Groups
6
Date of Data Collection
Continuous survey
Participation Mandatory
Yes
Type Of Data Source
Survey
Interview Mode
- 3.7 % CAPI
- 96.3 % PAPI
Percentage Of Proxy Interviews
37.7%
Weighting: Method
"Design weights are calculated as the inverse of probability selection of the household (computed from the total number of households during 2011 census, and the expected sample size), adjusted for non-response at primary unit level and finally post stratified by region, sex and age."
(Eurostat (2018): Labour force survey in the EU, candidate and EFTA countries. Main characteristics of national surveys 2017, p. 21)