Visa Requirements for Traveling to Greece

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; however, for others, a visa application needs to be made a few months in advance to ensure smooth entry.

Here’s a guide to navigating the requirements of your trip to Greece, whether that means traveling visa-free or completing the paperwork required to obtain a visa. This way, you can get organized and start 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, allowing citizens to travel between member countries visa-free. Citizens from 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 over 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, along with certain South American countries. First, ensure your passport is valid for a minimum of three months post-departure. You may be asked to provide documentation outlining the purpose of your visit and confirming your departure date. Check the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website to determine if your country qualifies for visa-free travel.

Keep in mind that you can travel within Schengen Zone countries for a maximum of 90 days. Therefore, if you plan on visiting Italy or France, consider the duration of your stay in each country and total it up.

There’s no requirement to stay within the Schengen area for a consecutive 90 days; you can enter and exit as desired, for a maximum of 90 days throughout a 180-day period. It’s easy to gauge the length of your Schengen-wide stay with online calculators tailored for this purpose. However, be mindful: overstaying the 90 days may lead to deportation or re-entry bans from Greece or other Schengen countries.

The EU is expected to introduce its ETIAS visa waiver program in 2024, which will require non-EU passport holders to apply online for pre-authorization, similar to the USA’s ESTA scheme. This process is anticipated to be straightforward and cost around €7.

Applying for a Visa to Visit Greece

If you hold a passport from another country, you will 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 within a 180-day period. Notably, non-EU countries and entities whose citizens require this visa include China, Indonesia, South Africa, Kenya, and Lebanon.

Applications should be made at the nearest Greek consulate in your country of origin, up to six months prior to your visit. In most instances, in-person appearance is required. You will need a recent passport-sized photograph and proof of medical insurance for your trip. Additionally, presenting evidence of accommodation and means of support may be required, along with other documentation.

Your passport must be valid for at least three months after your intended departure date. The cost of a Schengen visa is €80 for applicants over 12, €40 for children aged 6 to 12, and there’s no charge for children under 6. Tourist visas typically last for six months, with extensions granted only in exceptional circumstances.

If your country lacks Greek consular representation, verify which Schengen area country accepts visa applications from your country of origin. Some Global Visa Centers handle applications from specific countries, including India, the Philippines, and Vietnam, and online application may be possible. If you are a family member of an EU or EEA citizen, you may be eligible for a fast-track visa processing. The average decision time for visa applications is around 15 calendar days, but it can extend up to two months. Note that visa extensions are rarely granted and should be applied for before the initial visa expires.

Can Digital Nomads Obtain a Visa to Stay Longer in Greece?

Greece is actively attracting digital nomads by offering 12-month visas, two-year residence permits, and a 50% tax break for up to 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 national D-type visa to stay in Greece for up to 12 months.

This visa application must be filed at the Greek consulate in your country of residence. You will need to demonstrate that you are self-employed or work for a company based outside of Greece. It’s important to note that visa holders cannot accept employment from a Greece-based employer and must prove they earn a minimum monthly income of €3,500 post-tax to cover living expenses during their stay. Following the first year, they can apply for a renewable two-year digital nomad residence permit.

Explore Greece’s beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture while ensuring you meet the necessary visa requirements. Your unforgettable adventure awaits!