Greece is a dream destination for so many reasons! Think sun-drenched islands, ruins that have stood the test of time, deliciously fresh seafood, and charming whitewashed towns begging to be photographed. But if you're a non-EU/EEA national and planning a visit, you might need a Schengen short-stay visa (Type C).
This guide walks you through who needs a visa, what documents you need, how to apply, how much it costs, and why Schengen-approved Travel Insurance from Gigasure makes your application smoother. With a little planning, you’ll soon be soaking up the sun, indulging in delicious Mediterranean cuisine, and exploring the stunning ancient ruins of Greece—all with full peace of mind. Maybe even a refreshing ouzo or two.
Who Needs a Visa to Visit Greece?
If you hold a UK passport, you are in luck: you don’t need a visa for short tourist stays (under 90 days in any 180-day period) in Greece or any other Schengen country.
But if you're a citizen of a country that isn’t visa-exempt, or if you’re planning to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to apply for a Schengen visa before entering Greece.
Just like other Schengen countries, Greece uses the 90/180 rule, meaning you can stay for up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Zone. This means that if you’ve already spent time in Spain, Italy, or France recently, make sure you don’t exceed your total limit. It’s a great idea to visit different Schengen countries if you’re looking to explore some of Europe’s most famous spots but be aware of your visa limits.
Your passport must also:
- Be issued within the last 10 years
- Be valid for at least 3 months after your departure from the Schengen Area
Types of Greece Schengen Visas
- Type C (Short-Stay) — Tourism, business, visiting family, up to 90 days.
- Multiple-Entry Visa — Frequent travellers to Schengen area, varies (e.g. 1-5 years).
- Type D (Long-Stay) — Study, employment, family reunification, over 90 days.
For holidays, a Type C short-stay visa is usually what you’ll need. If you’re unsure, check with your nearest Greek consulate.
Required Documents for a Greece Schengen Visa
- Valid passport: Issued within 10 years, valid 3+ months after you leave the Schengen Area
- Visa application form: Completed and signed for Greece
- Two passport photos: 35 × 45 mm, recent, neutral background
- Travel medical insurance: Min. €30,000 coverage, valid for all Schengen countries (including Greece)
- Proof of accommodation: Hotel bookings, Airbnb confirmation or invitation letter
- Proof of financial means: At least €50/day or enough to cover your full stay
- Travel itinerary: Round-trip booking or proof of travel plans
- UK residence permit (if applicable): If you're applying from the UK but aren't a UK passport holder
- Supporting documents: Cover letter, proof of employment/study, previous visa stamps, etc.
Insurance Requirement for Greece
To apply for a Schengen visa, Greek authorities require travel medical insurance with:
- Minimum €30,000 coverage
- Coverage for emergency medical treatment, hospitalisation, and repatriation
- Valid for the entire Schengen trip, including any transit through Schengen countries
Gigasure Schengen Plans:
- Instant PDF certificate (for visa & airport checks)
- Covers all 29 Schengen countries
- Full refund if your visa is denied
How to Apply for a Greece Schengen Visa from the UK
- Check if you need a visa and confirm the right type for your visit.
- Prepare your documents, including your completed visa form, passport, insurance, accommodation, itinerary, and proof of funds.
- Book an appointment via the GVCW portal — this is Greece’s official partner for visa applications in the UK.
- Attend your appointment at a Greek Visa Application Centre in London, Manchester, or Edinburgh. Bring all required documents and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Pay your visa fee and service charge.
- Track your application status online. Once approved, your passport will be returned via courier or made available for collection.
Processing time: Typically, 15 to 45 calendar days should be fine. Nevertheless, it is a good idea to apply early — especially during summer. Since summer is the busiest period for tourism in Greece, there is a higher chance of delays. You can apply up to 6 months in advance, and no later than 15 days before your travel date.
Visa Fees for Greece (Short-Stay Schengen Visa)
Applicant: Adults (12 years and over)
- Fee: €90
Applicant: Children (6–11 years)
- Fee: €45
Applicant: Children under 6
- Fee: Free
Some applicants — including students, researchers, and certain cultural programme participants — may be eligible for fee waivers.
Biometrics & Where to Apply
All first-time Schengen visa applicants must provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo). If you’ve applied for a Schengen visa in the last 59 months, you may not need to submit new fingerprints.
In the UK, applications are submitted through GVCW Visa Centres in:
- London
- Manchester
- Edinburgh
You must book your appointment in advance.
What If Your Visa Is Refused?
A few common reasons for refusal:
- Missing documents (like insurance or financial proof)
- Unclear travel itinerary
- Insufficient ties to home country
- Passport or residency issues
If your Greece visa is denied, you can:
- Appeal the decision through the Greek Consulate within 30 days
- Or reapply after fixing the issue
Upcoming Changes: ETIAS & EES
If you're a UK citizen or other visa-exempt traveller, there is an upcoming change that will impact you:
- ETIAS: A €7 travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers, expected late 2026
- EES: Replaces passport stamping with electronic tracking, due October 2025
These changes won’t directly affect Schengen visa applicants but may change the process for those travelling without a visa. While the current date for the implementation of ETIAS is 2026, note that this can change.
Useful Links
- Greece Visa Application (GVCW): Book appointments and apply for a Greek visa
- Greek Consulate in London: Embassy details, visa info, consular assistance
- ETIAS Travel Authorisation Info: Stay up to date on ETIAS launch
Frequently Asked Questions
Do UK citizens need a visa for Greece?
If you're a UK passport holder, you do not need a visa for short visits to Greece, meaning stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is thanks to Greece being part of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free access for British citizens post-Brexit under specific conditions. However, from 2026, UK travellers (and other visa-exempt nationals) will need to apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before entering the Schengen Zone. This will be a quick, online pre-screening that grants you permission to travel.
How long does it take to get a Greece visa?
The processing time for a Greece Schengen visa is typically between 15 to 45 calendar days, depending on the season, your application type, and whether any documents are missing or require clarification. During busy periods (especially spring and summer), it’s best to apply at least four to six weeks before your intended departure date. In some cases, such as if your application is flagged for extra checks or you're applying with supporting documents from a non-UK passport, it might take longer. A good rule of thumb is the earlier, the safer.
Can I visit other countries with a Greece Schengen visa?
Yes! Greece-issued Schengen visa gives you access to all 29 countries in the Schengen Area. That includes destinations like France, Italy, Germany, and Spain. Just make sure that either Greece is your main destination (where you’ll spend the most time) or your first point of entry into the Schengen Zone. Border officers may ask about your itinerary, so it's good to carry proof of bookings, even if you’re planning to hop between countries.
How much money do I need to show?
Greek visa authorities typically want to see that you have at least €50 per day of your intended stay, with a minimum total of €450, even for shorter visits. This is to ensure you can support yourself while in the country, whether that's covering meals, accommodation, or emergencies.
Where do I get Schengen travel insurance?
Gigasure offers quick, Schengen-compliant travel insurance plans with instant PDF certificates that meet visa requirements. You can purchase coverage for your entire trip at competitive prices. If your visa is refused, Gigasure offers a full refund.
It’s Time to Bathe in the Greek Sunshine!
Whether you’re wandering through ancient ruins in Athens like you're in a sun-drenched history film, sailing between dreamy Cycladic islands with salty hair and zero plans, or parked on a pebbled beach with grilled halloumi and a cocktail in hand — Greece is perfect for you. The light, the food, and the vibe? It’s Mediterranean magic!
Get Schengen-compliant Travel Insurance from Gigasure in minutes and start your application today!
Information accurate as of June 2025. Always confirm visa details with the Greek Consulate or official Schengen sources before applying.
