Do I Need ETIAS for Greece? A Complete Guide for Travelers

Hugging the Mediterranean Sea, Greece is a travel destination on most traveler’s bucket lists. From the recognizable architecture of Santorini to the historical landmarks on the Acropolis of Athens, Greece is a beautiful country filled with something for everyone.

If you’re planning a trip to Greece and are wondering what travel requirements apply to you, look no further. European travel requirements continue to evolve, so understanding what you need and what you don’t can feel complex. We’re here to help.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about ETIAS and how it applies to your upcoming visit to Mykonos, Lamias, or wherever you’re off to in this stunning country!

Do I need ETIAS to visit Greece?

Yes, all travelers to Greece who do not hold a valid Greek or Schengen visa/passport need ETIAS to travel to Greece from 2025 on. This applies even if you did not need ETIAS to travel to Greece in the past.

For context, some countries have visa-waiver agreements with the Schengen area (which includes Greece). This is a friendly agreement that allows citizens of those countries to travel to any country in the Schengen area without needing to obtain a visa.

ETIAS is required for all citizens traveling to Greece from visa-waiver countries, which include the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and others.

An approved ETIAS doesn’t replace a visa. ETIAS authorizes you to enter the Schengen area. If you’re planning to stay in Greece (or the Schengen area) for more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate visa to do so, not ETIAS.

If you aren’t from a visa-exempt country (such as China, India, or Russia), you do not need to apply for ETIAS. You need to apply for a Schengen visa instead.

Do I need ETIAS if I have a Greek visa?

No. If you hold a valid Greek visa, you do not need ETIAS. ETIAS is only for travelers who do not have a Greek or Schengen visa/passport.

How to apply for ETIAS for Greece

The ETIAS application and approval process is entirely online and will only take you a few minutes. Make sure you have your travel details, passport, and debit/credit card ready.

To get an ETIAS for Greece, just follow a few simple steps:

• Fill out the form on ETIAS with your name, nationality, passport number, and travel details.
• Answer a few questions about your personal history. According to the official European Union website, you’ll be asked to share your parents’ first names, current occupation, and level of education. You’ll also be asked about any past criminal convictions.
• Pay a fee: There is a small application fee that can be paid using a credit or debit card (7 euros, though this fee is waived for applicants under the age of 18 or over the age of 70).
• Wait for approval: In most cases, ETIAS approval is immediate (or in just a few minutes). In certain circumstances, approval can take up to 30 days, so it’s best to plan and prepare accordingly.
• Enjoy your trip to Greece!: Your approved ETIAS will be automatically linked to your passport, digitally. This means that authorities at border control will be able to see that you have been approved to enter the Schengen area. With that being said, it never hurts to screenshot a digital copy or print one out, just in case there are any questions or issues.

How long is my ETIAS for Greece valid for?

Your ETIAS is valid for up to three years, or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. When it’s time to reapply, simply follow the steps above again.

If I get an ETIAS for Greece, can I travel to other Schengen countries with it?

According to the EU website, a valid ETIAS does permit you to travel throughout the Schengen area and Cyprus. With that being said, it does not guarantee entry. Border guards can still deny you entry.

ETIAS for Greece: Key Takeaways

• ETIAS is required for visitors to Greece who do not have a Schengen visa/passport from 2025 on.
• The ETIAS application is online and only takes a few minutes.
• Once approved, your ETIAS is valid for 3 years or until your passport expires – whichever comes first.
• Greek/Schengen country citizens do not need ETIAS.
• Current Greece visa holders do not need ETIAS.
• The ETIAS application costs 7 euros (but is free for those under the age of 18 or over 70).
• ETIAS is not a visa; it’s a travel authorization that permits you to enter a Schengen country.
• ETIAS is valid for travel by air, land, or sea.
• ETIAS permits you to enter any Schengen country and Cyprus, but entry isn’t guaranteed and will be decided by local border guards.
• You can appeal a denied ETIAS application.
• Approval is usually immediate but can take up to 30 days, so plan accordingly.