Simple 4-step process — most applications approved within 5-15 business days
1
Complete the online application
Fill out our comprehensive application form with your personal and travel details. Our intelligent validation system verifies each field in real-time, ensuring accuracy and catching common errors before submission to Greek consular authorities.
2
Upload your documents
Submit your passport scan (bio page clearly visible with at least 3 months validity beyond planned departure), recent passport photograph meeting Schengen specifications, travel insurance proof, and supporting documents such as flight bookings and accommodation confirmation.
3
We process your visa
Your verified application is prepared and submitted through official channels. Our visa specialists monitor processing status and keep you informed via email and SMS at every stage, guiding you through any additional requirements.
4
Receive your visa
Once approved, your Schengen visa is stamped in your passport at the designated visa application center. For some nationalities, collection or courier delivery is arranged. Kalós órises — welcome to Greece!
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Greece Visa Requirements & Entry Information
Schengen Visa-Free
Up to 90 days
Visa-free entry for 60+ nationalities in Schengen Area
Schengen Tourist Visa
Up to 90 days
Type C short-stay visa for tourism and visits
Schengen Business Visa
Up to 90 days
Type C visa for business meetings and conferences
Golden Visa
5-year residence permit
Investment-based residency for property buyers
Essential Requirements
📘Passport valid 3+ months beyond departure with 2 blank pages
🏥Travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage
✈️Confirmed round-trip flight reservation
🏨Hotel bookings or accommodation proof for entire stay
💰Proof of sufficient funds (€50-100 per day)
📄Cover letter explaining purpose of visit
Schengen Visa-Free Entry
Greece, as a member of the Schengen Area, follows the unified European visa policy that allows seamless travel across 27 European countries. Citizens of over 60 countries enjoy visa-free access to Greece for short stays.
Visa-Free Nationalities
Citizens of the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and most Latin American countries can enter Greece without a visa for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This permission applies across the entire Schengen Area — days spent in France, Italy, or Germany count toward your Greek allowance. The visa-free entry is ideal for tourism, visiting family, short business trips, and attending conferences.
ETIAS Authorization (Coming Soon)
Starting in 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorization before traveling to Greece. This simple online process costs €7, is valid for 3 years, and takes only minutes to complete. ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorization similar to the US ESTA program.
The Acropolis of Athens — UNESCO World Heritage Site and symbol of ancient Greece
Schengen Tourist & Business Visas
Schengen Type C Visa — Short Stay
Travelers from countries not covered by visa exemptions must apply for a Schengen visa at a Greek embassy or consulate (or authorized visa application center) before travel. The Schengen visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period and is valid for all 27 Schengen member states.
Tourist Visa Requirements
Tourist visa applications require: valid passport (issued within last 10 years, valid 3+ months beyond departure); completed application form; recent passport photo (35x45mm); travel medical insurance (€30,000 minimum coverage); round-trip flight reservation; accommodation proof for entire stay; proof of sufficient funds (bank statements, payslips); cover letter explaining travel purpose; and the visa fee (€80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12).
Business Visa Additional Requirements
Business travelers need: invitation letter from a Greek company on official letterhead; letter from employer stating purpose, dates, and financial responsibility; proof of existing business relationship; and detailed itinerary of business activities.
• Single-entry visas: Valid for one entry only
• Multiple-entry visas: Allow unlimited entries during validity period
• Processing time: 15 calendar days standard; can extend to 45 days in peak season
Santorini — The iconic Greek island famous for dramatic caldera views
Golden Visa & Long-Stay Options
Greece Golden Visa Program
Greece offers one of Europe's most attractive Golden Visa programs for property investors. Purchasing real estate worth at least €250,000 (€500,000 in Athens, Thessaloniki, and popular islands as of 2024) grants a 5-year residence permit for the investor and family members. Benefits include:
• Residence permit renewable every 5 years as long as property ownership continues
• Schengen travel: Visa-free access to all Schengen countries
• No minimum stay: No requirement to reside in Greece
• Family inclusion: Spouse, children under 21, and parents of both spouses
• Path to citizenship: Eligible after 7 years of residence (requires actual presence)
National Type D Visa — Long Stay
For stays exceeding 90 days (study, employment, family reunification), a National visa (Type D) is required. This is processed through Greek embassies and allows stays beyond the Schengen 90-day limit. Applications require additional documentation including police clearance, medical certificates, and purpose-specific documents (enrollment letters for students, work permits for employees).
Mykonos — World-famous Greek island known for windmills and vibrant nightlife
Entry Points & Processing Times
International Entry Points
Greece has numerous international gateways. Major airports include Athens International (ATH), Thessaloniki Macedonia (SKG), Heraklion Crete (HER), Rhodes Diagoras (RHO), Corfu (CFU), and Santorini (JTR). During summer, many islands receive direct international flights. Sea ports in Piraeus, Patras, and Igoumenitsa connect Greece with Italy and other Mediterranean destinations. Land borders with Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, and Turkey have designated crossing points.
Processing Times & Tips
• Standard processing: 15 calendar days from application submission
• Peak season: April-September may see 30-45 day processing times
• Appointment booking: Schedule visa appointments 4-6 weeks in advance during busy periods
• Apply early: Applications accepted up to 6 months before travel
Important Considerations
Schengen visa rejections can occur due to insufficient funds, incomplete documentation, or lack of strong ties to home country. First-time applicants should provide comprehensive evidence of employment, property ownership, or family obligations demonstrating intent to return home. DoVisa's document review service helps identify and address potential issues before submission.
Athens International Airport — Greece's main gateway handling 25+ million passengers annually
Why Choose DoVisa?
See the difference between applying yourself vs using our expert service
Travelers to Greece rated this product 4.7 out of 5 based on 12 reviews.
4.7/ 5
Based on 12 verified reviews
Filter by rating
Maria K.Jan 18, 2026
"Applied for my Schengen visa to Greece and the process was incredibly smooth. DoVisa helped me prepare all documents perfectly. Got approved in just 10 days!"
James T.Jan 12, 2026
"The document checklist was so helpful. I would have missed several requirements without it. Santorini here I come!"
Priya S.Jan 5, 2026
"Good service overall. The appointment booking took a while during peak season but support kept me informed throughout."
Robert M.Dec 29, 2025
"Third time using DoVisa for European travel. They really understand the Schengen system. Visa approved without any issues."
Sophie L.Dec 20, 2025
"Was worried about first-time Schengen application but the team walked me through everything. Even helped with my cover letter!"
Ahmed R.Dec 14, 2025
"Solid service. Processing took the full 15 days but everything was handled professionally. Would recommend."
Elena V.Dec 8, 2025
"Applied for multiple-entry Schengen visa for business trips. DoVisa made the complex requirements manageable. Very impressed!"
Daniel W.Nov 30, 2025
"Family of 5 traveling to Greece. DoVisa handled all our applications together and we were all approved. Excellent coordination!"
Linda C.Nov 22, 2025
"Had to resubmit one document but support responded quickly and guided me through the fix. Visa approved a week later."
Marcus J.Oct 15, 2025
"The travel insurance recommendation saved me money and met all Schengen requirements. Thoughtful service!"
Nina P.Aug 28, 2025
"Honeymoon trip to Mykonos and Santorini. Both our visas approved quickly. Thank you DoVisa for making our dream trip possible!"
Kevin H.Jun 10, 2025
"Good experience. Wish the tracking was more detailed but outcome was perfect. Enjoying Athens now!"
Greece Visa FAQs
What types of visas are available for Greece?
Greece offers several visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. Schengen Visa (Type C) is the most common, allowing stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period for tourism, business, family visits, or short-term study. This visa grants access to all 27 Schengen countries. National Visa (Type D) is required for longer stays such as employment, extended study programs, or family reunification. Transit Visa (Type A) is needed by certain nationalities for airport layovers. Greece also participates in the Golden Visa program, offering 5-year residence permits to property investors (minimum €250,000-€500,000 depending on location). Each visa type has specific requirements, processing times, and permitted activities within Greece and the broader Schengen Area.
What is a Schengen visa and how does it work for Greece?
A Schengen visa is a short-stay visa that allows travel throughout the 27 Schengen Area countries, including Greece, for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. When applying for Greece as your main destination, you submit your application to a Greek consulate or visa application center. The visa is typically stamped in your passport and shows the Schengen member states where it's valid (usually all 27). Important rules: You must enter through your main destination country (Greece) or spend the majority of your trip there. Days spent in any Schengen country count toward your 90-day limit. The 180-day period is calculated on a rolling basis — at any given day, you can look back 180 days and must not have exceeded 90 days of presence. This system allows flexibility while preventing indefinite stays.
Do I need a visa to visit Greece?
Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Visa-free access is available for citizens of over 60 countries including the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Brazil, Argentina, and all EU/EEA countries — allowing stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa. Visa required for citizens of most African, Asian (except developed nations), and some Eastern European countries. Check our visa checker tool to confirm your specific requirements. ETIAS: From 2025, visa-exempt travelers will need ETIAS authorization (€7, valid 3 years) — this is a simple online registration, not a visa. Even if visa-free, you must meet entry requirements: valid passport, sufficient funds, return ticket, and travel insurance is recommended.
What documents are required for a Greece Schengen visa?
A complete Schengen visa application requires: Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned departure from Schengen Area, issued within the last 10 years, with at least 2 blank pages. Application form fully completed and signed. Passport photo (35x45mm, recent, white background). Travel insurance with minimum €30,000 medical coverage valid in all Schengen states. Flight reservations showing round-trip itinerary. Accommodation proof for entire stay (hotel bookings, invitation letter, or rental agreement). Proof of funds: bank statements from last 3-6 months, payslips, tax returns (showing approximately €50-100 per day). Cover letter explaining travel purpose and itinerary. Employment documents: letter from employer, business registration for self-employed, or enrollment letter for students. Visa fee: €80 for adults, €40 for children 6-12, free for children under 6.
How long can I stay in Greece with a Schengen visa?
With a Schengen visa, you can stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period across all Schengen countries combined. This means if you spend 30 days in Greece, 20 in Italy, and 15 in France, you've used 65 of your 90 days. The 180-day period is calculated on a rolling basis — on any given day, authorities count back 180 days to check your total presence. Practical example: If you enter Greece on January 1 and stay 90 days (leaving March 31), you cannot return to any Schengen country until July 1 (when the January days start dropping off). Important: Overstaying even by one day can result in fines, entry bans, and future visa rejections. The Schengen Information System (SIS) tracks entries and exits across all member states, so violations are easily detected.
Can I extend my Greece visa or stay longer?
Extending a Schengen visa is extremely difficult and only granted in exceptional circumstances. Valid reasons for extension include: force majeure (natural disasters, medical emergencies), humanitarian reasons, or serious personal situations that arose after entering. Extensions are processed at local Greek police/alien bureaus and require strong documentation. Not valid reasons: wanting to stay longer for tourism, enjoying your trip, or general convenience. If you know you'll need more than 90 days, apply for a National Visa (Type D) before travel. For those wanting extended stays in Greece specifically, options include: enrolling in a Greek language course (student visa), investment programs (Golden Visa), or employment opportunities. Border runs — briefly exiting Schengen and re-entering — do not reset your 90-day clock; the rolling calculation still applies.
Can I work in Greece with a tourist visa?
No, Schengen tourist visas (Type C) and visa-free entries explicitly prohibit any form of employment or paid work in Greece. This includes: freelance work for Greek clients, remote work for Greek companies, volunteering with Greek organizations, and any activity that would typically require a work permit. For legal employment: You need a Greek National Visa (Type D) with work authorization, which requires a job offer from a Greek employer and approval from Greek authorities. The process involves your employer obtaining a work permit, followed by your visa application. Digital nomads: Greece introduced a Digital Nomad Visa in 2021 for remote workers employed by non-Greek companies — requiring proof of €3,500 monthly income. This is a National Visa category, not a Schengen tourist visa, and must be applied for at a Greek consulate before travel.
Do I need to print my Greece visa?
Yes, in most cases. Schengen visas are physical stickers placed in your passport by the consulate or visa application center — these cannot be printed at home. You must collect your passport with the visa stamp after approval, either in person or via courier. ETIAS authorization (for visa-exempt travelers, starting 2025) is electronic and linked to your passport; while you don't need to print it, having a copy is recommended for peace of mind. Supporting documents: Always carry printed copies of your flight itineraries, hotel bookings, travel insurance, and sufficient funds evidence. While Greek immigration primarily scans your passport and visa, they may request these documents, especially for first-time Schengen visitors. Digital copies on your phone are acceptable backup but printed originals remain standard practice.
How long does Greece visa processing take?
Standard processing time for Schengen visas is 15 calendar days from submission, but actual times vary. Factors affecting processing: Peak tourist season (April-September) can extend times to 30-45 days due to high application volumes. First-time applicants may face longer processing due to additional verification. Certain nationalities require additional security clearances. Timeline recommendations: Apply at least 6 weeks before travel during peak season, 3-4 weeks during off-peak. Applications are accepted up to 6 months before travel. Appointment availability: In some cities, visa appointment slots fill up weeks in advance — book as early as possible. Expedited processing: Not officially available for Schengen visas, though some visa application centers offer premium services that speed up appointment availability and document handling (not government decision time).
What if my Greece visa application is rejected?
Greece Schengen visa rejections occur for various reasons. Common causes: Insufficient proof of funds, incomplete documentation, lack of travel insurance, unclear travel purpose, previous Schengen violations, or concerns about intent to return home. After rejection: You'll receive a letter stating rejection grounds (often general categories). You can: Appeal the decision within specified timeframes (usually 1-3 months) if you believe the rejection was unjustified; Reapply immediately with improved documentation — there's no waiting period for new applications. Focus on addressing the specific rejection reasons. DoVisa support: Our pre-submission review identifies potential issues before they cause rejections. If rejection occurs despite our guidance, we provide complimentary consultation to strengthen your reapplication. Success tip: First-time applicants should provide extensive ties-to-home-country evidence: employment contract, property ownership, family photos, and detailed return reasons.
What is the Greece Golden Visa program?
The Greece Golden Visa is a residence-by-investment program offering 5-year renewable residence permits to non-EU property investors. Investment requirements: €250,000 minimum property purchase in most areas; €500,000 in Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Santorini, and other high-demand locations (increased in 2024). Benefits: 5-year residence permit renewable indefinitely; visa-free travel throughout Schengen Area; no minimum stay requirement in Greece; family inclusion (spouse, children under 21, parents); path to citizenship after 7 years of actual residence; ability to rent out the property. Process: Complete property purchase, obtain tax registration number, apply for residence permit. Processing takes 2-4 months after property closing. Important: The permit is tied to property ownership — selling the property cancels residency rights. It doesn't include work rights in Greece (unless additional permits obtained) but allows business investment.
When is the best time to visit Greece?
Peak Season (June-August): Hottest months with temperatures reaching 30-40°C. Best for beach holidays and island hopping. Expect maximum crowds, highest prices, and occasional crowded ferry routes. Book accommodations and ferries well in advance. Shoulder Season (April-May, September-October): Ideal weather (20-28°C), fewer crowds, lower prices. Perfect for exploring archaeological sites, island touring, and outdoor activities. Sea is warm enough for swimming by late May through October. Many consider this the best overall time to visit. Off-Season (November-March): Cool and sometimes rainy (10-15°C). Best for Athens and mainland cultural exploration, winter activities in northern Greece, and budget travel. Many island facilities close November-April. Regional variations: Crete and Rhodes have milder winters; Northern Greece (Thessaloniki) is cooler year-round; Islands vary significantly — Santorini is busier than Naxos in any season.
What are the entry requirements besides a visa?
Beyond visa requirements, all visitors to Greece must meet: Passport validity: At least 3 months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area, issued within the last 10 years. Proof of funds: Immigration may request evidence of sufficient finances (approximately €50-100 per day); bank cards, recent statements, or cash are acceptable. Return/onward travel: Confirmed transportation out of the Schengen Area within your permitted stay period. Travel insurance: While technically only required for visa applicants, highly recommended for all visitors (medical evacuation from islands can be expensive). Accommodation evidence: May be requested, especially for visa-free travelers appearing for extended stays. COVID-19: As of 2024, Greece has lifted all COVID-related entry requirements; however, always check current regulations before travel as they can change. EU citizens: Need only a valid national ID card or passport; no visa or additional documentation required.
Can I travel to other European countries with my Greece visa?
Yes, a Schengen visa issued by Greece allows you to travel throughout all 27 Schengen member states during its validity period. This includes most EU countries plus Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein. Countries NOT in Schengen: Ireland (own visa system), Cyprus, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia (all EU but processing Schengen membership — may accept Schengen visas for tourism; check current rules). UK requires a separate visa for most nationalities. Main destination rule: When applying, you should apply through the consulate of your main destination (where you'll spend the most time) or first point of entry if equal time. If Greece issued your visa but you spend most time in France, this could cause issues on future applications. 90-day limit applies: Remember all Schengen days are cumulative — your Greek visa doesn't give you separate 90 days per country.
Is travel insurance mandatory for Greece?
For Schengen visa applicants: Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Requirements specify: minimum €30,000 medical coverage, valid in all Schengen states, covering emergency medical treatment and repatriation. Insurance must be valid for the entire trip duration plus a few extra days. Many consulates have approved insurer lists. For visa-free travelers: Not technically required but strongly recommended. Greek healthcare is good but expensive for non-EU visitors. A simple clinic visit can cost €50-150; hospital stays or specialist care run into thousands. Medical evacuation from islands requires helicopter or boat transfer — extremely costly without insurance. EU citizens: The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) provides access to Greek public healthcare at reduced or no cost, but doesn't cover repatriation or private treatment. Supplementary travel insurance is still advisable. Coverage recommendations: €100,000+ medical coverage, emergency evacuation, trip cancellation, and baggage coverage.
What are the main airports and ports of entry in Greece?
Greece has extensive entry options. Major airports: Athens International (ATH) — main hub handling 25M+ passengers annually; Thessaloniki Macedonia (SKG) — northern Greece gateway; Heraklion (HER) — Crete's main airport; Rhodes (RHO) — Dodecanese islands; Corfu (CFU) — Ionian islands; Santorini (JTR) — direct seasonal flights from major cities; Mykonos (JMK) — popular island hub. During summer, many smaller islands receive charter flights. Sea ports: Piraeus (Athens) — Greece's largest port with ferries to islands and cruises; Patras — western Greece, ferries to Italy; Igoumenitsa — ferries to Italy and Corfu. Land borders: Promachonas/Kulata (Bulgaria); Evzoni/Bogorodica (North Macedonia); Kakavija/Kakavijë (Albania); Kipoi/Ipsala (Turkey). Immigration processing: Fastest at major airports with e-gates for EU/ETIAS-eligible passports; island arrivals during peak season may face longer waits.
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