Thinking of travelling to Greece soon to buy a property or indeed sell your holiday home in Greece there are some new rules you need to now take into consideration.
From ancient landmarks to mesmerising beaches, Greece is known for its beauty and has been a hot spot for travelers across the globe. Come 2025, tourists will have to comply with new ETIAS registration rules and this will include Greece as well. If you are looking to visit Greece, it is necessary to learn about these changes ahead of time so that there are no complications.
What is ETIAS and Why is it Being Implemented?
The European Union has introduced the ETIAS system as a way to enhance security and streamline travel within the Schengen Zone. Greece, as a Schengen member, is implementing ETIAS to pre-screen travellers from visa-exempt countries, ensuring they meet security requirements before they arrive. This new system is similar to the ESTA program used by the United States and aims to prevent potential security risks while making travel safer and more efficient.
ETIAS was initially set to be implemented in mid-2025, but the enforcement deadline has now moved to the end of 2026. This order will affect citizens from countries that do not require a visa, such as the US, Canada, the UK, and Australia.
Who Needs an ETIAS Authorisation to Visit Greece?
Starting in 2025, international travelers from countries such as the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and Australia will require an ETIAS application to visit Greece. This means that you can no longer travel to Greece freely and will have to complete an online application prior to your trip.
Preparing for the ETIAS Application for Greece.
Remember that even though the ETIAS application may seem simple, you will still need a specific amount of information and documents ready prior to starting the application.
Here are some details to keep in mind:
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months after your planned stay in Greece.
- Have a working email address that you can access, as the ETIAS will send you approval to the provided email.
- Have either a debit or credit card, which can charge an estimated €7 for an adult’s application. Minors under 18 and adults over 70 years do not have to pay this fee.
While applying, you will also need to submit your first and last name along with day and month of birth, nationality, and address location.
How to Apply for ETIAS for Greece
The ETIAS application steps are easy to follow, and the application can be made entirely online. Below is a list of steps on how you can apply:
Official ETIAS Website: The application form can be found on the official ETIAS portal, where you’ll be asked to input personal information, travel details, and passport information.
Answer Security and Background Questions: You will need to provide an answer to security questions related to prior travel, criminal records, and relevant information.
Pay the Application Fee: It is anticipated that the ETIAS fee might be around €7 for applicants aged 18-70. Other age groups such as minors, and the elderly are likely to be exempt from the fee.
Obtaining Approval: Depending on your application, it can take minutes to process. In some cases, there may be additional verification which may take days.
Travel is now made easier since the ETIAS authorisation gets electronically slapped to your passport the moment you are issued approval. Then, it’s good for 3 years or until your passport expires, whichever occurs first. In that time, you can travel to Greece or any Schengen countries for short visits up to 90 days total and within a 180-day timeframe.
ETIAS Changes for Travelers to Greece
With the addition of ETIAS, it seems most tourists will only experience minor setbacks rather than major roadblocks. The steps needed to complete ETIAS are uncomplicated, ensuring there aren’t any unnecessary delays or issues entering Greece. They do endorse applying for ETIAS well before the trip to avoid issues down the line. This is because airlines and border control won’t allow entry to the flight or country without a checked ETIAS. So acquiring one ahead of time is necessary to avoid being denied entry.
Travel Considerations for Greece in 2025
In addition to the ETIAS prerequisite, travellers must also keep an eye on other matters such as the validity period for passports and any COVID- 19 health precautions that could still be relevant. Greece still remains one of the warmest countries to visit in Europe and although these new measures add a little more work to the process of traveling, it is meant to promote safety and security for all travelers.
The changes in the rules for registering tourists to Greece as well as the implementation of the ETIAS system greatly impacts international travelers. Even though the new requirement appears to add more cumbersome processes to undergo, the requirements appear to be in place to enhance travel experience by making it safer and efficient. You will continue to relish the breathtaking landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant culture of Greece as long as you apply for ETIAS beforehand and all your travel documents are in order.
Always consult official resources prior to ETIAS updates and trip planning related to Greece. If planned well, your 2025 adventure to Greece will be unforgettable and memorable!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do UK citizens need an ETIAS to visit Greece?
As the UK is no longer part of the EU, UK citizens will need to obtain an ETIAS before travel to Greece starting in 2025.
- How long does it take for an ETIAS approval to be given?
The vast majority of applications are processed in a few minutes, though some may require additional scrutiny and take several days.
- Is it possible to travel to other countries in Europe with an ETIAS?
Yes, travelers with ETIAS can access all Schengen Zone countries, including Greece, for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day timeframe.
- What will happen if my ETIAS application is rejected?
All applicants will be furnished with the reason for denial. In such a case, they can choose to appeal the decision or reapply with the requisite additional information.
- ETIAS, is it replacing a visa for Greece?
Not at all. ETIAS is not a visa. Rather, it is a travel authorisation document intended for non-visa nationals visiting Greece and other Schengen States for short durations.
