Schengen Visa for Greece - A Complete Guide

Schengen Visa for Greece 

If you are traveling to Greece from outside the EU, you may need to obtain a Greece Schengen visa. This guide provides answers to all the common questions like “Is a Schengen visa good for Greece?” and “Can I travel to Greece with a Schengen visa?” Additionally, it covers information on processing time for this type of visa and the necessary documents to prepare. Explore this guide for all the details you need before your trip!

In Person Appointment in Person or Online?

To make an appointment offline, consider contacting one of the following establishments in your local area:

• The nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate
• One of the Greek visa centre
• The embassy, consulate or visa centre of a Schengen member state that represents Greek consular interests in your locality (if other options are not available)

Remember to submit the application in the country where you hold a residence permit.

Required Documents for Schengen Visa

The required documents may vary depending on the purpose of your trip and your employment status. If you are a tourist applying for a type D visa, you will need to prepare the following documents in English or Greek:

1. The Greece Schengen Visa application form: Complete the form either by hand or digitally, ensuring that all fields are filled with accurate and up-to-date information. Don’t forget to sign the form before submitting it.
2. Two recent photos: These should meet the same requirements as passport photos.
3. A Valid passport: Your passport should be valid for at least 90 days beyond your planned return date, and that it has two or more blank pages.
4. Copies of previous Greek visas (if applicable).
5. Cover letter: Provide an itinerary and explain the purpose of your trip.
6. Marriage status documents: Include relevant documents if you are married or have children.
7. Proof of accommodation: Provide a reservation confirmation for the entire duration of your stay.
8. Plane tickets: Include copies of your flight bookings to Greece and back.
9. Proof of financial means: Show documents demonstrating that you have sufficient funds for your trip.

For employed travelers, additional documents are required:

1. Employment contract.
2. Written approval of leave from your employer.
3. Bank statements.
4. Income tax return.

Self-employed travelers should include the following documents:

1. Copy of business license.
2. Business bank statements.
3. Income tax return.

Retirees should provide pension statements. In most cases, pension and bank statements for the last six months are required.

Ensure that you have all the necessary documents to avoid any unessesary complications during the visa application process.

In order to confirm their enrollment and gain approval for their trip, students must provide documentation from their educational institution. Property owners who receive regular income should include proof of this income for the past six months.

If traveling to Greece at the invitation of friends or relatives, copies of their passports, bank statements for the last six months, and a formal invitation with contact details (including phone number) should be submitted along with the required documents. 

For business travel, an invitation from a registered organization in Greece is required. The organization’s letter should specify the dates of arrival and departure, as well as the complete postal address. Additionally, a certificate from the traveler’s employer should be included, confirming permission to travel. If there is an existing business relationship between the two organizations, supporting documents should be provided. 

One of the organizations must demonstrate that they will cover the traveler’s expenses. A business bank statement is also required. Finally, officially certified copies of the proprietorship or partnership documents, trade license, memorandum, and articles of association of the traveler’s company must be included.

For those traveling to Greece for medical treatment, a medical report from their home country, along with certification from the Greek doctor or healthcare facility, confirming the diagnosis and appointment date, should be attached. A receipt for the medical services should also be provided.

Individuals traveling to Greece for filmmaking, sports, cultural, or religious events should provide their itineraries and list the names of all accompanying travelers. The purpose of the visit, along with arrival and departure dates, must be explained. The sponsoring authorities should send an invitation letter, and the traveler should inform the embassy or consulate about who will cover their expenses.

Official delegates should specify their accommodation arrangements and duration of stay. An official copy of the invitation and the purpose of the trip must be provided.

Students, researchers, and trainees traveling to Greece must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover their expenses and provide documentation allowing them to attend the courses or confirm completion of education.

For spouses of Greek citizens, a marriage certificate and family record book should be prepared. Proof of the spouse’s Greek citizenship is also required.

Parents traveling with underage children who require a Greek visa should accompany their children to the consulate or embassy. The other parent should provide a notarized travel consent letter. Additionally, the traveling parent should prove they have sufficient regular income.

For those transiting through Greece without staying in the country, a copy of the visa for the final destination should be provided.

How to Get Your Greek Visa from the USA

US citizens are exempt from applying for a Schengen visa when traveling to Greece. Without a visa, you are permitted to stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. It is necessary to provide proof of a return plane ticket and demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover the trip.

Similarly, if you are a British citizen traveling from the UK to Greece, a Schengen visa is not required.

How to Get a Schengen Visa for Greece from India

As mentioned earlier, the outlined requirements are applicable to travelers holding an Indian passport. It is essential to gather the necessary documents based on the purpose of your journey and submit the visa application at least two weeks prior to your departure (with a maximum limit of three months before departure). Ensuring compliance with these guidelines will facilitate a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

How Much Does A Greek Visa Cost?

Children under the age of 5, as well as most students, are exempt from paying a visa fee. The standard fee for adults is €80. Additionally, you will need to be prepared to submit a service payment, the price of which may vary depending on the location that you submit your application. 

If your visa application is unsuccessful, these fees are non-refundable.

How about Travel Insurance?

For your medical travel insurance, a minimum sum of €30,000 is required. This comprehensive document will provide coverage throughout the entire Schengen area for the duration of your journey.

What is the Processing Time for A Schengen Visa for Greece?

The standard processing time for a Greek visa is two weeks. However, in cases of emergencies or when there is a high volume of applicants, the processing time may be extended.

Important Note for Those Who Have Their Visas

If you plan to extend your stay in Greece beyond the permitted duration of your visa, it is important to prepare for the submission of a new Schengen visa application. Please note that visa extensions are only granted under rare and exceptional circumstances. 

When examining your visa, you will find the country code for Greece indicated by the letters “GR”. Additionally, the sticker number on your visa represents the unique identifier of the document.

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Reach out to our knowledgeable team members for any inquiries or further assistance you may require. We are here to offer support and guidance every step of the way!

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