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Travel Advisory August 15, 2024

Greece - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review without changes.

Exercise normal precautions in Greece.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Greece.

If you decide to travel to Greece: 

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook  and  X/Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for Greece.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

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Six months of remaining validity recommended.

One page per stamp.

10,000 euros or the equivalent.

Embassies and Consulates

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91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue 10160 Athens, Greece Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(30)(210) 721-2951 Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313 Email:   [email protected] Facebook

U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki Plateia Commercial Center 43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor 546 23 Thessaloniki Greece Telephone: +30-231-024-2905 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +(30)(210) 721-2951 Fax: +30 231-024-2927 Email:  [email protected] U.S. Embassy Athens provides all regular consular services including U.S. passports, notarials, and reports of birth and death abroad.

U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki provides notarial service. Embassy Athens consular staff periodically provide regular consular services in Thessaloniki. Please check the U.S. Embassy Athens website for information on the next scheduled visit. Visa services are provided at Embassy Athens only.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

Visit the Embassy of Greece website for the most current visa information.

Greece is a party to the Schengen Agreement; therefore, U.S. citizens may enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet .

• For entry into Greece, your passport should have at least six months of remaining validity . While Greek law requires three months of passport validity beyond the intended date of your departure, if you are transiting a country that requires six months of validity, you may not be permitted to continue your trip. We recommend that you have at least six months of validity to avoid any travel disruptions.
• U.S. citizens traveling on a passport reported lost or stolen will not be permitted entry into Greece and may be returned to their original departure point. This decision is the purview of the Greek immigration authorities; the U.S. Embassy cannot intervene. Emergency passports are issued only at the Embassy in Athens. Staff members do not travel to the air, land, or sea ports of entry.
• You must arrive in country with proof of sufficient funds and a return airline ticket or other evidence that you will depart Greece if asked. The sufficient funds requirement is often met with credit cards.
• U.S. official and diplomatic passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa prior to arrival. If you are traveling on a U.S. official or diplomatic passport, you will not be allowed to enter Greece without a visa.
• If traveling on official military orders , review the guidance in the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide .

If you are a U.S. citizen with a passport listing your place of birth as the Northern Republic of Macedonia, the Greek authorities will stamp your passport.

If you are a U.S. citizen with a passport listing your place of birth as Skopje or the Republic of Macedonia, your U.S. passport should be recognized as a valid travel document. However, be aware:

• Greek Immigration officers at ports of entry (land, air, and sea) will not place entry stamps in a passport listing the traveler’s place of birth as Macedonia or the Republic of Macedonia.
• You will be asked to complete a short form on which the entry stamp will be placed.
• Keep the form with your passport while you are in Greece and present it upon departure. If you lose the form, you must visit a police station and file a report before the Greek authorities will permit you to depart the country.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Greece.

Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction , and customs information on our website .

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. In the past year, there have been multiple terrorist attacks in Europe. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets. In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. U.S. citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Strikes and Demonstrations:

• Domestic strikes, demonstrations, and work stoppages are common throughout Greece and can become violent. Stay informed through local news, hotel security, the U.S. Embassy website , and the Consular Section’s Facebook page . Enroll in STEP to receive alerts sent by the Embassy.
• Transportation sector strikes interrupt traffic, public transportation, taxis, seaports, and airports. Confirm domestic and international flights before heading to the airport.
• Avoid all areas affected by the annual November 17 demonstrations, including the U.S. Embassy.
• Anarchists and criminals have used university campuses as refuges. Demonstrators frequently congregate in the Polytechnic University area, Exarchia, Omonia, and Syntagma Squares in Athens; and at Aristotle Square, Aristotle University, and the Kamara area in Thessaloniki.
• Violent anarchist groups have joined public demonstrations to clash with police and vandalize public and private property.

Crime: Crimes against tourists, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching , occur at popular tourist sites and on public transportation, especially the metro. A common tactic is one person causes a commotion on the metro or pushes travelers to distract them while another person snatches the belongings. Thieves also seek out and break into rental cars to steal passports, valuables, and luggage. The Embassy has received reports of alcohol-induced attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars.

Take the following precautions:

• Be cautious and aware of your surroundings.
• Do not leave bags unattended, especially on the metro and the Athens Airport train or in your vehicle.
• Avoid standing near bus or train doors. Thieves often strike as the doors open then disappear into the crowd.
• Use alcohol in moderation and remain in control.
• Never leave drinks unattended in bars or clubs.
• Be discreet when discussing plans and organizing belongings upon arrival.
• Protect yourself and your money by using well-lit, public ATMs.
• Be aware of internet scams with online thieves posing as loved ones or romantic interests.

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime: Report crime to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+30) 210-720-2414 or the Emergency after-hours telephone (+30) 210-729-4444 if you require assistance. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends, with your written consent
• Explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the United States.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in certain cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home in certain cases of destitution
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tremors and earthquakes occur regularly.  Forest fires are common, especially during the dry summer months, and occasionally cause road closures. In the event of a natural disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. Contact the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, which responds to emergencies, at 210-335-9900 for more information. Operators speak English. Monitor the U.S. Embassy Athens’ website and Consular Facebook page .

Tourism : The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities, such as Athens or Thessaloniki. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Possession of a U.S. passport will not prevent you from being arrested, prosecuted, or jailed.

• Penalties for possessing, using, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect long jail sentences and heavy fines. Marijuana is illegal in Greece.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs could land you immediately in jail.
• Photographing military installations is prohibited and may lead to arrest.
• Mace or pepper-spray canisters are illegal in Greece. Such items will be confiscated, and police may arrest or detain you.
• Carry your passport or some form of photo identification at all times. Police may detain you for questioning if you do not have proper identification with you.

Some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.

Faith-Based Travelers: See our webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Report – see country reports
• Human Rights Report – see country reports
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Greek Antiquities: Customs authorities strictly regulate the export of Greek antiquities, including rocks from archaeology sites. Do not remove anything, no matter how small, from archaeological or historical sites. Do not purchase protected antiquities and carry receipts for any purchases that may appear to be antiquities.

Military Service for Dual Nationals:

• Greek males between 19 and 45 are required to perform military service.
• If the Greek government considers you to be a Greek citizen, you may be required to fulfill this obligation whether or not you consider yourself Greek or possess a U.S. or third country’s passport.
• Authorities can prevent you from leaving Greece until you complete your military obligations . Contact the Greek embassy or nearest Greek consulate with questions.
• Generally, required military service will not affect your U.S. citizenship, but contact U.S. Embassy Athens if you have questions.

LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Greece. LGBTI individuals in Greece are protected by anti-discrimination laws, and gender identity is among the grounds covered by laws against hate speech; however, non-governmental organizations report that social discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is widespread in Greece and violence against LGBTI individuals remains a problem.

See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While Greek law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or intellectual disabilities and local law requires access to buildings, sidewalks, and public transportation, application and enforcement of these laws is lacking.

• Handicapped parking spaces and sidewalk ramps are often occupied or blocked by parked vehicles.
• Sidewalks often are narrow with broken paving stones and large holes and obstructed by trees and street signs.
• Buildings with ramps might lack accessible elevators or bathrooms.
• A small percentage of public buildings (primarily in Athens) have full accessibility. Some buildings and intersections include accommodations for visually-impaired travelers.
• The Athens metro and Athens International Airport are fully accessible with ramps and elevators.
• Ask your hotel about accessibility before booking.

The Deputy Ombudsman for Social Welfare handles complaints related to persons with disabilities, especially those related to employment, social security, and transportation.

Students: See our students abroad page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers .

Most public medical facilities in Greece offer adequate care, although service quality and hospital appearance may differ from the United States. Some private hospitals have affiliations with U.S. facilities and provide high-quality care. Many doctors trained in the United States or elsewhere in Europe.

• Private hospitals usually require proof of adequate insurance or cash before admitting a patient. Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.
• Public hospitals often employ minimal nursing staff overnight and on weekends in non-emergency wards. Consider hiring a private nurse or having family spend the night with the patient, especially a minor child.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare is not accepted overseas.

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may be required to pay upfront and seek reimbursement from your insurance company. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage .

We strongly recommend that travelers purchase travel insurance before their trips to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Greek Embassy or consulate in the United States , the Customs office at Athens International Airport (+30 210-3542126) or the National Organization of Medicines ( [email protected] , www.eof.gr , +30 213-204-0000) to ensure the medication is legal in Greece. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Short-term Car Rentals: Greek law requires that visitors carry a valid U.S. driver’s license and an international driver’s permit (IDP), even if the rental company does not request to see your IDP. The Embassy does not issue IDPs. You must obtain your IDP in the United States from the American Automobile Association ( AAA ) or the American Automobile Touring Alliance ( AATA ). Contact AAA directly to inquire about their mail in option that will allow you to apply from overseas, but note that it will likely take days or weeks. If you drive without these documents, you may face high fines (1,000 Euros or more) or be responsible for all expenses in the event of an accident.

Road Conditions and Safety: Greece has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the European Union. Exercise extreme caution as both a driver and a pedestrian, and follow these tips:

• Drive defensively.
• Expect heavy traffic, obscured traffic signs, and vehicles traveling at high speeds.
• Driving at night in inclement weather and on mountain roads can be hazardous.
• Local law requires all motorcyclists to wear a helmet.
• Check for motorbikes between lanes and on either side of you.
• Do not rely on lane markings. On many two-lane highways, slower traffic will drive on the shoulder, and cars will pass straddling the center double-yellow line.
• Review your insurance coverage before renting. Most insurance companies require that you have both your valid U.S. license and an international driver’s permit (IDP) for coverage in Greece. Small motorbike and all-terrain vehicle (ATV) rental firms frequently carry no insurance and require customers to cover the cost of all damages to their vehicles. Your insurance company may not cover two-wheel or ATV rentals.

Traffic Laws:

• Talking or texting on a mobile phone while driving is illegal. The police check phone records when investigating accidents.
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal, and police conduct random alcohol testing.
• A Greek license is required if you stay more than 185 days in Greece. Contact the Regional Office of Transportation and Communications for more information.

See our road safety page for more information, including information on IDPs. Visit the Greek National Tourist Office website for more helpful tips.                                        

Public Transportation: Purchase and validate your ticket by touching it to the pad on the turnstile prior to boarding a bus or train. Inspectors randomly check for tickets. If you do not have a ticket, have the wrong ticket, or fail to validate your ticket, you could be fined up to 60 times the basic fare.

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Greece’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Greece’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page .

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Greece should monitor U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci , the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, https://homeport.uscg.mil , and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal . Greece implemented a Recreational and Daily Tour Cruise Ships Fee on all private and professional leisure ships with a total length of over seven meters, regardless of flag, in Greek territorial waters. Mariners should consult https://www.aade.gr/polites/etepai for details.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Greece . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.”

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Do you need a visa to go to Greece?

Jul 5, 2023 • 4 min read

Get all your visa admin sorted and focus on planning the vacation of a lifetime © Mystockimages / Getty Images

Greece may have long been on your bucket list but you're unsure if you need a visa to explore this history-rich Mediterranean nation’s mountainous mainland, countless islands and vibrant cities.

For many visitors, a valid passport is sufficient but, for others, a visa application needs to be made a few months in advance to ensure your entry goes without a hitch.

Here’s our guide to navigating the requirements of your trip to Greece, whether that means traveling visa-free or doing the paperwork required to obtain a visa. That way, you can get yourself organized and then set about planning your grand Greek getaway, just like you’ve always dreamed.

Visa-free travel to Greece

Greece is a member of the EU and Europe’s 27-member border-free Schengen Zone, which allows citizens to travel between member countries visa-free. Citizens of EU countries that are not members of the zone, as well as EEA countries, also don’t require a visa to move within the bloc.

Furthermore, citizens of more than 60 countries are permitted to travel to Greece visa-free for a total of 90 days within a 180-day period. These nations include the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and Singapore, as well as certain South American countries. Firstly, ensure your passport is valid for a minimum of three months after your departure date. You may be asked to provide documentation outlining the reason for your visit and confirming your departure date. Check the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to see if your country qualifies for visa-free travel.

Keep in mind that you are permitted to travel within Schengen Zone countries for a maximum of 90 days. That is, if you plan on traveling to Italy or France, you need to take into account the number of days you’ll be spending in each country and tally up the total.

There’s no need to stay in the Schengen area for a consecutive 90 days – you can move in and out as you wish, for a maximum of 90 days throughout the 180 day period. It’s easy enough to gauge the length of your Schengen-wide stay with online calculators designed for this purpose. Beware though, if you stay longer than 90 days, authorities in Greece or other Schengen area countries may deport you or prohibit you from re-entering the bloc.

Meanwhile, the EU is expected to introduce its ETIAS visa waiver program in 2024. If you hold a non-EU passport, you’ll need to apply online for pre-authorization, along the lines of the USA’s ESTA scheme. Costing around €7, the process should be quick and painless.

Applying for a visa to visit Greece

If you hold a passport from another country , then you’ll need to apply for a short-stay Schengen tourist visa to visit Greece and any other Schengen area states for a maximum of 90 days in any 180 day period. Among the non-EU countries and entities whose citizens require this visa are China, Indonesia, South Africa, Kenya and Lebanon.

Apply for a visa at the nearest Greek consulate in your country of origin up to six months ahead of a planned visit. In most cases, you will be required to appear in person. You will need to provide a recent passport-sized photograph and evidence of medical insurance for the duration of your trip. Additionally, you may be asked to present proof of accommodation and means of support during your visit, among other documentation. Your passport must have an expiry date of at least three months after your intended departure. Schengen visas cost €80 for any applicant over 12, €40 for children aged between 6 and 12, and there is no charge for children under 6. Tourist visas are normally valid for six months and extensions are only possible in exceptional circumstances.

If your country does not have Greek consular representation, check this list on the ministry website to see which Schengen area country accepts visa applications from your country of origin. Global Visa Center World handles visa applications from certain countries , including India, the Philippines and Vietnam and you may be able to apply online. You may be eligible for a fast-track visa procedure if you are a family member of an EU or EEA citizen. It usually takes the consulate 15 calendar days to make a decision on a visa application, but it can take up to two months. Visa extensions are rarely granted and applications must be made before the visa expires.

I’m a digital nomad. Can I obtain a visa to stay longer in Greece?

Greece is doing all it can to attract digital nomads, offering 12-month visas, two-year residence permits and a 50% tax break for a maximum of seven years. If you’re a remote worker, freelancer or entrepreneur from outside the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you can apply for a long-term visa, also known as a national D-type visa, to stay in Greece for up to 12 months .

Apply for this visa at the Greek consulate in your country of residence. You will need to provide proof that you are either self-employed or work for a company or organization outside of Greece. Visa holders are not allowed to work for a Greece-based employer and must prove that they earn a monthly minimum of €3,500 post-tax to cover living expenses during their stay. After the first year, they are eligible to apply for a renewable two-year digital nomad residence permit.

This article was first published Jun 25, 2021 and updated Jul 5, 2023.

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• Schengen Visa Guides

Greece Set to Open for Tourism from 14 May 2021

• Published: March 11, 2021
• Greece Tourism , Greece travel , Reopen Borders , Schengen Tourism , Schengen Travel , Schengen Visa , Tourism , Travel , Travel & Tourism , Travel Restrictions , Travel to Greece

Greek authorities have set 14 May 2021 as the date when people vaccinated for COVID-19 can come from around the world can once again visit the country, according to the Greek Minister of Tourism Haris Theocharis.

In a press conference, Theocharis announced that 14 May is the official date that authorities are shooting for re-opening, but it will not happen all at once.

Restrictions will be lifted gradually and in phases. In addition, dates and details may change depending on the epidemiological situation and new developments.

“Always having in-mind the faithful implementation of the health protocols, we aspire to open Greek Tourism on May 14th. Until then, we will gradually lift the restrictions, if this is allowed by the estimates of infectious disease specialists for the development of the pandemic. For example, we plan for April the pilot implementation of the measures we have planned: in the first phase with visitors from European Union countries, as well as with other countries of departure where the vaccination has progressed, such as Israel. I emphasize, however, that all the opening dates are indicative and may change, depending on developments,” Said Theocharis.

The condition that most tourists will face to enter Greece will most likely be proof of vaccination against COVID-19 or having tested negative for COVID-19.

Tourists also could be subject to random COVID-19 tests, such as what tourists faced in Greece in 2020. Fortunately, rapid-tests have evolved to avoid quarantining until the test results come back.

“All tourists may be subject to random tests, in the same way as last year. However, an important difference compared to last year is the ‘rapid tests’, thanks to which the quarantine for positive cases will start now, without the 24-hour wait like in 2020,” Theocharis said.

If a tourist is found to be carrying COVID-19 and in need of hospitalization, however, the cost of hospitalization will be taken up by the Greek government.

“The cost of hospitalization or any other required action, aimed at protecting the health of tourists, professionals, and citizens, will be borne by the Greek State,” Theocharis said. He continued, “What applies to Greek citizens, will also apply to tourists, without any difference or exception, such as the obligatory use of the mask in public places.”

To work towards the goal of reopening tourism for travelers around the world, Greek authorities have been working closely with other governmental agencies as well as the private sector to find the best way to resume tourism in Greece.

They also hosted a sort of experiment in which roughly 6 million visitors from Germany were allowed to enjoy the country, “while remaining completely safe.”

This ‘trial run’ could have solidified Greece’s position as a country whose borders would be among the first to open.

Travel and tourism accounts for a massive part of Greece’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP). In normal years it is roughly 6.8% of the entire country’s GDP, one of the largest sectors, leaving hundreds of thousands of people dependent on it for their livelihood. The sector accounts for roughly 10% of employment in Greece.

No further announcements have been made by the Greek government.

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Explore Greece’s 90-day visa-free travel policy—its benefits for tourists and challenges for locals. Learn how to enjoy Greece responsibly while preserving its heritage.

Discover the top 17 in-demand jobs in Greece that can boost your chances of securing a work visa. Find out which roles are most sought after and start your journey!

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Asylum seekers entering Germany on Schengen visas highlight a growing trend that poses challenges to immigration policy and security in the Schengen Area.

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All you need to know about the Greece Schengen Visa

How to apply: schengen visa.

Complete our user-friendly online application in just 20 minutes, or feel free to take breaks and return at your convenience.

Move closer to an approved visa with our team of iVisa Experts, who not only review your answers but also provide you with the necessary tools to prepare.

Make use of our feedback and free templates to confidently submit accurate information, and experience a surprisingly stress-free process!

Once government-approved, your visa will be ready for collection, marking the start of your travels.

Learn More: Schengen Visa

What you need to know.

The Greece Schengen Visa is a multiple-entry travel document to visit Greece and all other countries in the Schengen Area

You can stay in the Schengen Area for a maximum of 90 days per entry.

With the Greece Schengen Visa you can do tourist and business activities, receive medical treatment, visit friends & family, and attend short studies

Discover Europe with the Greek Schengen Visa

Last updated: April 2024

We currently don't offer this visa, but you can find more information on the Greek Embassy website .

Join our waitlist to be notified as soon as we offer this visa.

Learn everything you need to know about the Greece Schengen Visa application here.

What is the Greece Schengen Visa?

The Greece Schengen Visa is one of the most popular visas to explore Europe and the Schengen Area.

It allows travelers to travel between all Schengen member states without obtaining visas for each country.

What can I do with the Greek Schengen Visa?

Visit Greece and other Schengen countries for tourism and to visit family and friends

Attend business meetings, conferences, or do other business activities

Do a short recreational course or play sports

What can I not do with the Greek Schengen Visa?

Remunerated business (paid work)

Receive medical treatment

Marry or register a civil partnership

Study for an extended period of time or do a traineeship

Live in Greece or another Schengen country

Who requires the Greece Schengen Visa?

Travel within the Schengen Zone is visa-free for residents of the European Union and nationals of Schengen countries.

However, most other travelers must apply for a Greece Schengen Visa and do an interview before they go.

Children and minors are also required to apply for a Schengen Visa to visit Greece, if they are from an eligible country.

Additionally, the following passport holders are eligible to visit the Schengen zone without a visa :

• United States
• United Kingdom
• New Zealand

How long can I stay in the country with the Greece Schengen Visa?

Greece and the Schengen area may be visited for up to 90 per entry .

Travel between Schengen countries is unrestricted as long as you don't exceed the cumulative 90 days.

The Greek authorities decide if you receive a single-entry, double-entry, or multiple-entry visa. Multiple-entry visas can be issued for 180 days to 5 years.

Which documents do I need to apply for the Greece Schengen Visa?

The required documents generally include the following:

Visa application form

2 passport photos: Taken within the last three months

Valid passport: Valid for at least 6 months after arrival and with at least two blank pages

Travel itinerary: It can include a copy of your return ticket, hotel reservation, or tour itinerary

Proof of accommodation: You'll need a hotel reservation or a letter from relatives in Greece to prove where you're staying

Financial statements: A bank statement or salary slip proving that you have the necessary funds to cover the entire trip

Your collected fingerprints: In case you have not registered them in the VIS(Visa Information System) for the previous 59 months

Medical insurance: It must cover at least €30,000 for emergency medical treatment and repatriation

For minors applying for a Schengen visa, their birth certificates and parental consent must be provided

How to apply for the Greece Schengen visa online with iVisa

To apply for the Greece Schengen Visa , go to the website of the Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country, and follow their instructions.

Bring the required documents to the mandatory visa interview.

Costs and processing timed of the Greece Schengen Visa application

The government fee of about US$85 must be paid in cash at the VAC or consulate (half-price for children between the ages of 6 and 12 and free for kids under 6 years old). Some exemptions apply.

It can take up to 45 days from the appointment date to process your visa. We recommend applying at least 2 months in advance due to the limited availability of appointment slots.

Where can I learn more?

We're here to help you with questions about the Greece Schengen Visa application process.

Our dedicated online team of customer service agents is available via online chat or WhatsApp .

The Greece Schengen Visa allows a stay of a maximum of 90 days per entry.

The Greek government decides if you'll get a single-, double-, or multiple-entry visa based on your travel history and individual circumstances. The multiple-entry Schengen Visa may offer a validity between 180 days and 5 years.

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Visa from the United Kingdom to Greece Efficient. Reliable. Secure.

Before applying, please ensure you are very clear on your "purpose of travel". We are able to assist and help you through the entire visa application process but are not permitted to advise or guide you on choosing a visa category.

LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR SERVICES

• Have you checked all of the requirements prior to applying for your visa? CHECK REQUIREMENTS
• You know your purpose of travel and have already checked all requirements. Complete the online application form from this website only and print it. Postal applications are not accepted. COMPLETE OUR ONLINE FORM
• Time to schedule an appointment at the GVCW Visa Application Center for Greece to submit your application. You may submit your visa application six (6) months prior to your date of travel. Please ensure that you print your Appointment Letter and bring it with you at the Visa Application Center. SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT
• If you have already submitted an application for a visa at the GVCW Visa Application Center for Greece in the United Kingdom, you can now track your application. TRACK YOUR APPLICATION
• It is time for you to collect your passport at the GVCW Visa Application Center for Greece. Make sure to meet all necessary requirements in order to collect your passport. COLLECT YOUR PASSPORT

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