Greece, with its ancient ruins, breathtaking islands, and vibrant culture, has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations in the world. From the iconic Acropolis in Athens to the stunning sunsets in Santorini, travellers from every corner of the globe dream of visiting this Mediterranean gem.

However, before you can bask in the Greek sun or walk through history, you must ensure that you have the correct documentation to enter the country. If you are not a citizen of an EU or Schengen member state, you will likely need a Greece visa. This detailed Greece visa checklist will guide you through every step of the application process, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience.

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Do you need a visa to enter Greece?

Before preparing your checklist, confirm if you need a visa. Greece is part of the Schengen Area, so entry requirements depend on your nationality.

Nationals who do not need a Visa:

• Citizens of EU/EEA countries

• Citizens of countries with a visa waiver agreement with the Schengen zone, such as the United States, Canada, Australia, Japan, and the United Kingdom, can stay for up to 90 days.

Nationals who do need a Visa:

• Most African, Asian, and some South American countries

• If in doubt, check the official Schengen Visa info page or consult the Greek embassy in your country.

Important: Even if you don’t need a visa, you must have a valid passport, travel insurance, and proof of sufficient funds.

Types of Greece visas

Schengen Short-Stay Visa (Type C)

• For stays up to 90 days within 180 days

• Purposes: Tourism, business, family visit, conferences

National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)

• For stays longer than 90 days

• Purposes: Study, work, family reunification

Transit Visa

• For travellers transiting through a Greek airport en route to a third country
  

Please note: This checklist primarily focuses on the Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C), the most common visa type for tourists and short visits.

 General requirements for a Greek visa

Every Greece visa application requires specific documents, but some requirements apply universally:

• Completed visa application form

• Valid passport

• Recent passport-sized photographs

• Travel itinerary and accommodation details

• Proof of financial means

• Travel insurance

• Visa fee payment

Let’s break down each requirement.

1. Visa Application Form

Each applicant, including children, must complete a separate Greece visa application form. The form must be filled out accurately and signed on page 4.

For children under 18:

• Both parents must sign page 4 of the application form.

• Attach passport copies of both the father and mother.

2. Recent Passport Photograph

Provide one recent passport-sized photograph (3.5 x 4.5 cm) taken within the last 6 months. The photo must be in colour, show a frontal view of your face, and have a white or plain light-colored background.

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3. Original Passport and Photocopy

Submit your original passport along with one clear photocopy. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date the visa is issued and must have been issued within the last ten years (the validity period should not exceed ten years from the issue date to the submission date). Additionally, include copies of any previous visas you may have held, such as Schengen, USA, UK, or Canada visas.

If holding a foreign passport: Provide a residence permit with validity exceeding 6 months from the submission date.

4. Proof of Financial Means

• Original personal bank statement for the last 3 months (showing regular transactions, stamped and signed by the bank).

Important: A simple balance letter is not accepted; the full statement is required.

Additional supporting documents may include:

• International credit card copies with recent statements

• Savings account/passbook copies

• Proof of retirement benefits

• Property deeds for real estate in Lebanon or Europe

5. Travel Medical Insurance

Provide a travel medical insurance policy that covers all Schengen countries, with a minimum coverage of €30,000. The policy must include coverage for medical treatment, emergency hospital admission, and repatriation. It should be issued by an insurance company that has an assistance office within the Schengen area.

6. Proof of Occupation or Status

Submit the document relevant to your occupation:

For Employees:

• Employment letter stating date of employment, salary, duration of leave, and the employer’s guarantee of resuming your position upon return to Lebanon

• Copy of the employer’s commercial circular

For Students:

• An official letter from your school or university confirming your student status

• Copy of your student ID

For Freelancers:

• Copy of the commercial circular (if registered), or invoices proving freelance work

For Self-Employed Individuals:

• Recent proof of company registration

• Copy of the company’s commercial circular

For Housemaids:

• Written explanation of the reason for travel

• Employer’s letter guaranteeing the resumption of duties upon return

• Copy of a valid work permit

7. Proof of Accommodation

Hotel Booking:

Hotel reservation covering the entire stay. Must include the hotel’s full name and address, phone and fax number, city, and postal code

Invitation from Host (if staying with family/friends):

• Original invitation letter

• The host’s full name, address, phone, fax number, city, and postal code
  
  

Proof of Property Ownership (if applicable):

Ownership documents with complete address and contact details

Note: These details must also be written accurately in your visa application form.

8. Flight Reservation or Ticket

Copy of your flight reservation or ticket showing your entry and exit to/from Greece (including return flight).

9. Family Register

• Provide a family register that is translated into English, French, or Greek.

• The translation must not be older than 6 months.

10. Specific Cases

Honeymoon:

Include proof of wedding expenses (such as receipts for venue, catering, etc.)

For Minors (under 18 years old):

• Original parental consent letter, signed by both parents at a notary public

• School certificate confirming current enrollment

Tips for Greece Visa Application Preparation

Here are some practical tips to help you have a successful visa application:

• Start Early: Begin your visa application process well in advance of your intended travel date, ideally at least four weeks ahead, to account for processing times and any unforeseen delays.

• Double-Check Requirements: Carefully review the latest checklist from the Greek consulate or visa application centre to ensure you meet all requirements for your specific visa type.

• Organise Your Documents: Arrange all your documents in the order listed in the checklist, making it easy for consular staff to review your application.

• Use Recent Documents: Ensure all your documents (bank statements, employment letters, insurance, etc.) are recent, preferably issued within the last month.

• Provide Complete and Genuine Information: Fill in the application form accurately and honestly. Any inconsistencies or false information can lead to delays or rejection.

• Check Validity: Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended return and has been issued within the last ten years.

• Match Details Across Documents: The information on your application form, flight bookings, hotel reservations, and supporting documents should be consistent.

• Do Not Purchase Tickets: Submit only reservations for flights and hotels unless your visa has been approved, to avoid financial loss in case of denial.

• Certified Translations: If any of your documents are not in English, French, or Greek, provide certified translations as required.

• Be Prepared for an Interview: You may be asked to attend an interview and answer questions about your trip, finances, and ties to your home country. Prepare clear and honest answers.

• Check for Additional Requirements: If you are travelling with minors, as part of a group, or for special purposes (business, study, medical), confirm if additional documents are needed.

• Follow Up: Track your application status if possible, and be responsive if the consulate requests additional information or documents.

Applying for a Greek visa doesn’t need to be overwhelming. With this Greece Visa Checklist, you can prepare your application with confidence and look forward to your trip without unnecessary stress. The key is organisation, honesty, and attention to detail. Happy travels and enjoy the magic of Greece!