Greece, with its emerald green sea and blue skies, is one of the world’s most popular resort destinations and is full of tourist attractions. Many Japanese people probably want to visit Greece, don’t they?
However, when it comes to actually going, some may have questions about the visa. In this article, we’ll introduce the types of visas for Greece, how to obtain one, the application process, and everything from short-term to long-term stays.
1. Greece Visa System
A visa exemption agreement exists between Japan and Greece. Therefore, for short stays within 3 months, you can enter Greece without obtaining a visa. However, for long-term stays over 3 months, you will need to obtain a visa at the Embassy of Greece in Japan before traveling.
Types of Greece Visas
《Short-Term Stay Visa》Tourist Visa
If the stay is within 3 months, there is no need for a special application. However, travelers on short-term stays must have a passport that meets the following conditions:
Has more than 3 months of validity remaining from the planned departure date
Was issued within the past 10 years
Greece is a member of the Schengen Agreement. People staying within the Schengen area need to be cautious.
Under the Schengen Agreement, “a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period” is allowed. In other words, all days stayed within the past 180 days count toward the short-term stay limit.
《Important Notes》
Immigration checks regarding short-term stays within the Schengen area are flexible and can vary. If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for more than 90 days, make sure to check with the government tourism office or the Greek Embassy in Japan before traveling.
There have been issues where travelers without a Schengen visa were denied entry into Germany when transiting. If you are entering or exiting Greece via Germany near the 90-day limit, be sure to consult the embassy or tourism office in advance.
《Long-Term Stay Visa》Student Visa
If you plan to attend a university for more than 3 months, you will need this student visa. Upon application, you will receive a grace period within 365 days and a residence permit valid until you finish your university program.
Required documents for the application:
•Certificate of acceptance and payment receipt from the educational institution, or a certificate of enrollment
• Bank statement showing funds to cover monthly expenses of at least 400 euros plus the entire duration of stay, or proof of income
• For applicants under 18, a letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian
• Proof of Greek language proficiency if required by the educational institution
• Visa application form with a photo that meets ICAO standards
• Valid passport
• Certificate of no criminal record issued by the prefectural police or metropolitan police of your residence
• Medical certificate in English issued by a public healthcare institution
A fee of 90 euros (in Japanese yen) must be paid upon visa application. Submitted documents will not be returned, so be sure to make copies before submission.
Documents can be downloaded from the Consulate of Greece in Japan’s website:
http://www.mfa.gr/missionsabroad/en/japan－en/visas/application－form－for－student－visa.html
You must apply at least 3 weeks before departure. Also, don’t forget to book an appointment for the application.
You will also need to submit a residence permit to the immigration office.
Required documents:
• Bank statement showing funds to cover monthly expenses of at least 400 euros plus the entire duration of stay, or proof of income
•Certificate of enrollment, or receipt of tuition payment to the university
•For applicants under 18, a letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian
•Signed application form for the residence permit
•Payment of 150 euros per year
Even if all required documents are submitted, your application may still be rejected.
《Long-Term Stay Visas》Work Visa, National Visa, etc.
Anyone planning to stay in Greece for more than 3 months must obtain a visa.
For long-term stay visas other than student visas, you must contact the embassy to acquire one. Be sure to confirm the purpose of your long-term stay and which visa types are applicable.
Contact information for visa inquiries
Phone: 03－3403－0871
FAX: 03－3402－4642
E-mail: grcon.tok＠mfa.gr
3. Process of Applying for a Greek Visa
When applying for a visa to Greece, first contact the Greek Embassy for inquiries. Then:
1. Prepare the documents
2. Make an appointment at the embassy
3. Submit documents and apply
4. Obtain the visa
This is the general procedure.
Make sure to prepare early so you can apply at least 3 weeks before your departure.
◎ Summary
There are likely many people who want to experience the charm of Greece through a long-term stay. But the first hurdle is obtaining a visa. I hope this article serves as a useful reference.
The methods for obtaining a visa may change from year to year. Encountering visa issues can be very stressful. If you're thinking about traveling, make sure to check the embassy's website for accurate and up-to-date information, so you can travel with peace of mind.