Greece Transit Visa

Greece, located in southeastern Europe, is renowned for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. From the ancient ruins of Athens to the picturesque islands of Santorini and Mykonos, Greece offers a plethora of attractions for travellers. The country’s diverse geography includes pristine beaches, towering mountains, and charming villages, making it a sought-after destination for tourists worldwide.

For travellers transiting through Greece en route to other destinations, understanding the visa requirements is crucial. A Greece Transit Visa may be necessary, depending on your nationality and travel itinerary. Applying for a Greece visa online can streamline the process, and being aware of the Greece transit visa cost will help in planning your journey effectively. Additionally, ensuring you have access to the best foreign currency exchange rates can enhance your travel experience.

What is a Greece Transit Visa?

A Greece Transit Visa is a short-term visa that permits travellers to pass through the international transit areas of Greek airports or seaports when traveling to a non-Schengen country. This visa is essential for certain nationalities, including Indian citizens, who have layovers in Greece en route to their final destination.

Indian travellers seeking a Greece in-transit visa should be aware of the specific requirements and procedures. Booking cheap flights to Greece from India often involves transiting through Greek airports, necessitating this visa. Before planning your trip, ensure your Indian passport is valid, and consider utilizing services to apply for an Indian passport online if needed. The Greece visa application online process simplifies obtaining the necessary travel documents, allowing you to apply for a Greece visa from India with ease.

Transit Visa Eligibility

Understanding the types of Greece visas is essential to determine if you require a transit visa. The Greece Transit Visa is specifically for travellers who need to pass through Greece en route to another country. Eligibility criteria include:

Nationality: Citizens of certain countries, including India, are required to obtain a transit visa.
Travel Itinerary: Your travel plans must involve a layover in Greece while en route to a non-Schengen destination.
Duration of Stay: The transit period should not exceed the time necessary to change flights or vessels, typically not more than 24 hours.

While transiting, you might consider booking accommodations at some of the best hotels in Greece to rest during longer layovers. It’s crucial to verify whether your transit in Greece visa requirements align with your travel plans. For Indian travellers, understanding the Greece visa for Indians is vital to ensure compliance with Greek immigration policies.

Requirements and Documents for Greece Transit Visa

To apply for a Greece Transit Visa, you must prepare the following documents:

Visa Application Form: A completed and signed application form.
Passport: Valid for at least three months beyond your intended transit date, with at least two blank pages.
Photograph: Two recent passport-sized photos (3.5 x 4 cm) in colour, with a white background.
Travel Itinerary: Confirmed onward tickets and proof of entry permission for the final destination.
Proof of Funds: Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover expenses during transit.
Travel Insurance: Coverage for the duration of your transit through Greece.

Utilizing a comprehensive Greece visa guide can assist in ensuring all requirements are met. Refer to the Greece visa document checklist to verify you have all necessary paperwork. Understanding the Greece visa documents & requirements is crucial for a successful application. Additionally, consider arranging transportation by booking car rental services to facilitate your movement during transit. Ensure you meet the Greece visa eligibility criteria and monitor your Greece visa status through the Greece visa tracking system to stay updated on your application progress.

How to Apply for a Greece Transit Visa

Follow these steps to apply for a Greece Transit Visa:

Determine Visa Type: Confirm that a transit visa is appropriate for your travel plans.
Complete the Application Form: Fill out the Greece visa application form accurately.
Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents as outlined above.
Schedule an Appointment: Book an appointment at the nearest Greek Visa Application Center or Consulate.
Submit Application: Attend the appointment and submit your application along with biometric data.
Pay Visa Fee: Pay the applicable visa fee during the submission.
Await Processing: The processing time may vary; monitor your application status online.

Familiarizing yourself with Greece visa rules is essential to ensure compliance with all regulations. Note that Greece does not offer a Visa on Arrival for transit passengers; therefore, obtaining the visa prior to travel is mandatory.

Greece Transit Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Greece Transit Visa can vary. While some applications may be processed within 15 calendar days, others might take up to 45 calendar days, especially if additional documentation or verification is required. It’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date to accommodate any potential delays.

Greece Transit Visa Fees for Indian Passport Holders

As of 2025, the Greece visa for Indians fees for a transit visa is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6 to 12 years. Children under 6 years are exempt from the visa fee. The approximate cost in Indian Rupees (INR) will depend on the current exchange rate at the time of application. Additionally, ensure your visa application includes a photograph that meets the Greece visa photo size requirements. Staying informed about Greece visa rules will aid in a smooth application process

FAQs:

Q. Who needs a Greece Transit Visa?

Nationals from certain countries are required to obtain a transit visa when passing through Greek airports en route to a non-Schengen destination. It’s essential to check the specific requirements based on your nationality.

Q.What is the difference between an Airport Transit Visa and a Short-Stay Schengen Visa in Greece?

An Airport Transit Visa (ATV) allows travellers to pass through the international transit area of a Greek airport without entering the Schengen Area. In contrast, a Short-Stay Schengen Visa permits entry into Greece and other Schengen countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Q.What documents are required to apply for a Greece Transit Visa?

Typically, the following documents are needed – A completed and signed visa application form. A valid passport with at least two blank pages. A recent passport-sized photograph. Proof of onward travel (e.g., confirmed flight ticket). A valid visa for the final destination, if required. Travel insurance covering the duration of transit.

Q.How long does it take to process a Greece Transit Visa?

The standard processing time is up to 15 calendar days. However, it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your travel date to account for any unforeseen delays.

Q.Can I leave the airport during my transit in Greece with a Transit Visa?

The Airport Transit Visa only allows travellers to remain within the international transit area of the airport. To leave the airport or stay in Greece, a regular Schengen short-stay visa is required.

Q.Is a Greece Transit Visa required for seafarers transiting through Greek ports?

Yes, seafarers intending to join a vessel in Greece or transit through Greek ports must obtain a transit visa.

Q.Are there any exemptions to the Greece Transit Visa requirement?

Certain travellers, such as those holding valid visas or residence permits for Schengen or EU countries, the USA, Canada, or Japan, may be exempt from needing a transit visa. It’s essential to verify specific exemptions based on individual circumstances.

Q.How much does a Greece Transit Visa cost for Indian citizens?

As of 2025, the fee for a Greece Transit Visa is €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6 to 12 years. Children under 6 years are exempt from the visa fee.

Q.Where should I submit my Greece Transit Visa application in India?

Applications should be submitted to the Greek Embassy or Consulate in India or through authorized visa application centres. It’s recommended to check the official website for specific submission guidelines.