Dreaming of exploring Greece’s ancient history, stunning islands, rugged mountains, or vibrant cities? Before you pack your bags, make sure you’ve got the right travel documents. For many, a valid passport is enough to enter Greece, but some travelers will need to secure a visa in advance. Here’s a concise guide to Greece’s visa requirements, upcoming EU systems, and options for digital nomads.
Visa-Free Travel to Greece
Greece, as part of the EU and the Schengen Zone, allows visa-free travel for citizens of the 29 Schengen countries. Citizens of non-Schengen EU countries and European Economic Area (EEA) nations also enjoy visa-free movement within the bloc.
Additionally, citizens of over 60 countries, including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, the UAE, Israel, and select South American nations, can visit Greece visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. You may need to show proof of your trip’s purpose and departure date. Verify eligibility through the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The 90-day limit applies across the entire Schengen Zone, so track your days if visiting multiple countries like Italy or France. You can enter and exit the Schengen area multiple times within the 180-day period, as long as the total stay doesn’t exceed 90 days. Use online calculators to monitor your stay. Overstaying can lead to deportation or a reentry ban.
Upcoming EU Systems
Entry/Exit System (EES)
Set to launch in October 2025, the EES will require non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Zone for short stays to provide fingerprints or a facial photo at their first border crossing. Exemptions include nationals of Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, and residence card holders.
European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS)
Expected to start in late 2026, ETIAS will require non-EU citizens from visa-exempt countries to apply online for pre-authorization before entering Greece or 29 other European countries. Similar to the USA’s ESTA, it costs €7 (US$8), with exemptions for those under 18, over 70, or family members of EU/EEA citizens with free movement rights. Announcements will precede the launch.
Overstaying in Greece
Staying beyond the 90-day visa-free period in Greece or the Schengen Zone may result in fines of €600–1200 (US$693–1386) and a three-month reentry ban. To extend your stay, apply at the nearest Aliens Bureau at least two weeks before your 90 days expire. Extensions are rarely granted for leisure travel and are evaluated case-by-case.
Applying for a Schengen Tourist Visa
Citizens of countries like China, India, South Africa, and Lebanon must apply for a Schengen tourist visa for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Applications should be made at a Greek consulate in your home country, between six months and 15 days before travel. Required documents include:
- A passport valid for three months beyond your departure.
- A recent passport-sized photo.
- Proof of medical insurance, accommodations, and financial means.
- Additional documents as requested.
The visa costs €90 (US$104) for those over 12, with no fee for children under 12. Processing typically takes 15 days but may take up to two months. Extensions are rare and must be requested before the visa expires. If your country lacks a Greek consulate, check the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs for alternative Schengen country consulates or apply through Global Visa Center World if eligible. Family members of EU/EEA/Swiss citizens may qualify for priority service and fee waivers.
Digital Nomad Visas
Greece welcomes digital nomads with a 12-month national D-type visa for non-EU/EEA/Swiss remote workers, freelancers, or entrepreneurs. Apply at a Greek consulate or via email/registered letter, proving:
- Employment or self-employment outside Greece (no work for Greek employers allowed).
- A minimum monthly income of €3500 (US$4044) after taxes, plus 20% for a spouse/partner and 15% per child.
After 12 months, you can apply for a renewable two-year digital nomad residence permit. Stays under 180 days per year don’t require Greek tax residency, but longer stays may necessitate it.
Ensure a smooth trip to Greece by checking visa requirements early and staying informed about new EU systems like EES and ETIAS. For the latest updates, visit the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.