ETIAS for Greece – Visa exemption of Greece
Greece – ETIAS : European Travel Information and Authorisation System
As Greece is a member of both Schengen and EU, it is most likely for visitors to be required of an ETIAS.
If your passport is issued by one of EU countries, you are allowed to visit Greece without a visa or any other travel permits. However in some cases, visitors may required to present a proof that you have suitable insurance coverage for emergency medical or other needs.
All visa-exempt nationals who wish to visit Greece may required to get approved ETIAS. After ETIAS is approved, visitors may stay in eligible countries for 90 days.
What is EU and Schengen?
It may be confusing to tell difference between Schengen and EU.
There are 28 countries that are members of EU. The purpose of European Union is mainly to establish European citizenship, and promote economic and social progress between European countries. This involves the single market, the euro, environmental protection and social and regional development.
And 26 countries of EU members are members of Schengen. Schengen agreement was formed to aim EU countries operate with no internal border controls, allowing for free movement between the participating countries.
Iceland, Norway, Switzerland, and Liechenstein are countries that are NOT EU member but in Schengen Area. And three city-states of EU countries, i.e. Monaco, Vatican City, and San Marino are also in Schengen Area.
Is an ETIAS required when visiting Greece?
It is high likely for all visitors from visa-exempt nationals to be required an ETIAS when visiting Greece.
ETIAS is an electronic travel permit that can simply be registered online. The similar system named “ESTA” is operated by the government of Unites States. ETIAS is expected be a similar system with ESTA.
Visitors who wish to visit ETIAS eligible countries are required to have approved ETIAS visa at least 72 hours before the flight.
Within the Schengen area, visitors are not required to have additional travel permits if the total length of stay is less than 90 days. Therefore, once visitors enter one of Schengen countries upon ETIAS approval, there is no need to apply for another ETIAS when visiting another Schengen country.
Once ETIAS is approved, it allows visa holders to visit Schengen areas multiple times for 5 years. The maximum length of each stay is 90 days.