Get your Greece Visa

Do Indians need a visa for Greece?
Yes, Indian passport holders need a valid visa, specifically a Schengen visa (type-c), to travel to Greece for short stays like tourism, business, family visits, or other approved activities for up to 90 days within 180 days. Greece does not offer visa-on-arrival or visa-free entry for Indian citizens.

What is the Greece visa fees for Indians?
The Greece visa fees for Indians are, for Adults: �90, for Children (6-12 years): �45, and for Children under 6 years: Free of cost.
Please note: Fees may vary slightly due to exchange rate fluctuations or additional service charges from visa centres.

Tip: Keep the exact visa fee ready at your appointment, as payment methods can vary depending on the visa application centre.

What is the Greece tourist visa validity for Indians?
The Greece tourist visa validity for Indians is valid for up to 180 days, allowing up to a maximum stay of 90 days within this period.

Note: Depending on the visa type you are granted, single-entry or multiple-entry, you may be able to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa's validity.

Can I travel to other Schengen Countries with a Greece visa?
Yes, a Greece visa allows you to travel freely to other Schengen Countries without needing additional visas. However, when applying, you should clearly state your intention to visit multiple Schengen Countries and provide a detailed itinerary covering your entire trip.

Tip: Make sure your first point of entry is Greece or that Greece is your main destination, as this will align with the requirements of the Greece Embassy where you are applying for the visa.

My Schengen visa is from France, but I�m travelling to Greece. Is that okay?
Yes, you can enter and travel to Greece with a Schengen visa issued by France. However, ideally, you must keep these two rules in mind:

Entry point: You are advised to enter through the country that issued your visa. In this case, France should be your primary entry point into the Schengen Area. After that, you can travel to Greece or other Schengen countries.

Main destination for stay: You should spend the majority of your time in France, as you are required to apply for a visa from the country where you will spend the most time.

Not meeting the above cases? Worry not! Read our guide on- Getting A Schengen Visa From One Country And Travelling To Another? (Essential Tips & Legal Insights)- to learn more about navigating these situations smoothly while staying compliant with Schengen regulations.

What is the difference between a single-entry and a multiple-entry Schengen visa?
Single-entry Schengen visa allows you to enter the Schengen Area only once. After leaving, you cannot re-enter, even if the visa is still valid.

Multiple-entry visa, on the other hand, allows you to enter and exit the Schengen Area multiple times within the visa's validity period (as long as you do not exceed the 90-day stay limit within 180 days).

Can I apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa for Greece?
Yes, you can apply for a multiple-entry Schengen visa for Greece. Multiple-entry visas are typically issued for 1, 3, or 5 years, depending on your travel history and the discretion of the consular officer.

Note: Despite having a multiple-entry visa, you can only stay for a maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period.

What is the 90/180 rule for Schengen visas?
The 90/180 rule is a crucial guideline for travellers holding a Schengen visa, dictating how long they can stay within the Schengen Area. It states that you can stay for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area. These 90 days can be consecutive or spread across multiple trips. However, the cumulative stay within the Schengen Area must not exceed 90 days in any rolling 180-day window.

Understanding the rule:

Rolling period: The 180 days are counted on a rolling basis, meaning each day you are in the Schengen Area, the 180-day period shifts forward by one day. For instance, if you stay from January 1 to March 31, you can return on May 1 but must leave by July 30 (the next 90-day window).

Multiple entries: The rule applies regardless of whether you are on a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. If you leave the Schengen Area and re-enter, the days spent inside are still counted towards your 90-day limit.

Tracking your days: It�s important to keep track of the number of days you�ve spent in the Schengen Area during the last 180 days. Overstaying can result in fines, deportation, or a ban from re-entering the Schengen Area in the future.

Example:

If you enter the Schengen Area on January 1 and stay for 30 days, you have 60 more days to use within the next 150 days.

If you leave and return after 60 days, say on April 1, you can stay for another 60 days, completing your 90 days within that rolling 180-day period.

Note: You must not overstay. If you exceed the 90-day limit, you may face penalties, including fines, deportation, or a ban on re-entering the Schengen Area. Each country within the Schengen Zone may handle overstays differently, but the consequences are generally severe.

Have there been any recent changes in the Schengen visa process for Indian citizens?
Recent updates to the Schengen visa process for Indian citizens include:

Digital application: Increasing digitalisation of the application process, allowing applicants to fill out forms and submit some documents online.

Biometric data: Biometric data (fingerprints and a photograph) is now required for all applicants except those who have submitted this data within the last 59 months.

Cascade regime: Under the EU's "cascade" regime, Indian nationals can progress from a two-year visa to a five-year visa, enjoying travel rights similar to visa-free nationals if all conditions are met.

Visa fee increase: The visa fee for Schengen visas increased to �90 from �80 for adults.

If you are planning to visit the Schengen Area soon, you must stay updated with the latest visa requirements and guidelines by regularly checking the official website.

What is Schengen visa shopping?
Schengen visa shopping refers to the practice of applying for a Schengen visa through a country that is perceived to have a more lenient or faster visa approval process rather than applying through the country that is your primary destination. This is generally frowned upon by Schengen authorities and can result in visa rejection or complications during your travel.

Consequences of visa shopping:

Rejection: Visa applications can be rejected if the consulate suspects that you are not genuinely planning to visit the country through which you applied.

Entry issues: Even if you receive a visa, you may face issues when entering the Schengen Area if immigration officials believe your main destination is not the country that issued your visa.

Record: Schengen authorities share information, and previous visa shopping attempts may affect future applications.

Tip: Always apply for a Schengen visa through the country where you plan to spend the most time or the country that is your first point of entry in the Schengen Area.

How to check available appointment dates for a Greece visa for Indians?
The flyaway consultancy Schengen visa appointment tracker allows you to check the available appointment dates for the Greece Schengen visa easily without logging in.

What are the Greece visa requirements for Indian citizens?
Here are the Greece tourist visa requirements for Indians:

Visa application form

Passport photo

Valid passport

Proof of travel purpose

Proof of travel

Proof of accommodation

Proof of financial means

Travel insurance

Visa application form:
A completed and signed Greece visa application form.

Passport photo:
One recent passport-sized photograph that meets Greece's specific visa photo requirements (e.g., white background, no older than 6 months).

With flyaway consultancy, you cannot only upload your passport-size photo but also click the picture of yours using your smartphone or desktop camera. flyaway consultancy automatically adjusts the photo to meet the country's requirements without hassle.

Valid passport:
A passport or travel document that is valid for at least 3 months beyond the expiry date of your Schengen visa. It must have been issued within the last 10 years and contain at least two blank pages. You must also submit old passports, if any.

With flyaway consultancy, you cannot only upload your passport pictures but also take a picture of your passport using your smartphone or desktop camera.

Proof of travel purpose:
Provide a clear and concise cover letter outlining your personal information, purpose of visit, financial means and intent to return.

flyaway consultancy will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.

Proof of travel:
Provide proof of roundtrip tickets and proof of intra-Schengen flight reservation, train itinerary or car rental if you are travelling to several Schengen States.

flyaway consultancy provides flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Proof of accommodation:
Submit the proof of accommodation for your entire stay in Greece. If invited, submit an invitation letter signed by the inviting person and duly notarised in Greece.

flyaway consultancy provides hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Proof of financial means:
The government needs proof of your capability to fund your stay. For this, you will need to submit bank account statements for the last three months (preferably showing a minimum balance of �3000, ITR acknowledgement for the last two years, payslips for the last 3 months, employer contract and employer�s statement on approval of holidays.

Travel insurance:
You must have travel insurance that is valid for all Schengen Countries. It should cover at least �30,000 or equivalent for all risks for the entire duration of the trip.

Note: Depending on the specific circumstances mentioned in the visa application, additional documents will be required. For example, you will need a sponsorship letter if your trip is sponsored.

What documents are required for minors applying for a Greece tourist visa?
Minors applying for a Greece visa must provide the following additional documents:

If the minor is travelling with only one parent, written consent certified by a public notary of the other parent or guardian is required, except in cases of a parent having sole custody or guardianship of the minor.

If the minor travels alone (without parents), written consent, certified by a public notary, of both parents or guardians having custody or guardianship of the minor is required.

Copies of the parents' passports need to be submitted. If not applicable, the applicant's birth certificate and copies of the parents' ID cards can be submitted.

If one parent has a valid visa, a consent letter certified by a public notary is still required from that parent.

Tip: Ensure that you have originals and copies available at the visa appointment.

Can I apply for a Greece tourist visa without a confirmed flight booking?
Yes, you can apply for a Greece tourist visa without a confirmed flight booking. However, you will need to provide a flight itinerary or reservation as proof of your intended travel dates.

Tip: Many visa agencies and airlines offer services where you can reserve a flight itinerary for visa purposes without purchasing the ticket. Consider using a refundable or reservable ticket option, which allows you to make changes or cancel the booking without financial loss if your travel plans change.

flyaway consultancy provides verifiable flight reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Can I apply for a Greece Schengen visa if my accommodation is not confirmed?
Yes, you can apply for a Greece Schengen visa without confirmed accommodation, but you still need to show proof of where you plan to stay. This can include temporary hotel bookings or an invitation letter from friends or family who will be hosting you.

The consulate requires this to ensure that you have arrangements in place for your stay. Even if your plans are not finalised, providing a reservation or written confirmation of your accommodation will satisfy this requirement during the visa application process.

flyaway consultancy provides verifiable hotel reservations for free, allowing you to demonstrate your travel plans without any financial commitment.

Is travel insurance mandatory for a Greece tourist visa?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory when applying for a Greece tourist visa. Additionally, the travel insurance must meet the following criteria:

The minimum coverage shall be �30,000.00.

The insurance shall be valid throughout the territory of the Schengen States.

It should cover the entire period of the person�s intended stay or transit in the Schengen Area.

The travel insurance should cover any expenses that might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons, urgent medical attention, emergency hospital treatment, or death during the stay(s) on the territory of the Member States.

If you have applied for a multiple-entry visa, ensure your travel insurance covers your first trip. You can then renew it as necessary for subsequent trips.

Tip: You must obtain travel insurance from approved travel insurance companies provided on the Greece Visa Application Centre�s website.

flyaway consultancy provides travel insurance that meets Schengen visa requirements at a minimal cost.

What are the Greece visa photo requirements for Indians?
It is mandatory that your photograph meets the Greece visa photo requirements mentioned below:

Recent: It should not be older than 6 months.

Size: 1.2 X 1.6 inch.

Head size: The head should occupy 70-80% of the photo.

Colour: The photo must be in colour and have a plain white or light grey background.

Face position: The applicant's face must be centred and looking directly at the camera with a neutral expression.

Eyes: Eyes should be open and clearly visible, without any reflections or obstructions.

Glasses: If you wear glasses, make sure the lenses are free of glare or reflections and your eyes are clearly visible. Avoid wearing tinted glasses.

Headwear: Headwear is not allowed unless it is for religious reasons. In such cases, the face must be fully visible from the bottom of the chin to the top of the forehead, and the edges of the face must be visible.

Tip: Ensure your photos meet these requirements exactly, as failure to do so can lead to delays or rejection of your application.

What is the minimum bank balance required for a Greece tourist visa for Indians?
While Greece does not have a fixed minimum bank balance requirement, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the Schengen Area. A general guideline is to show a minimum balance of around �60-70 per day of stay, translating to approximately �1,800 to �2,100 for a 30-day stay.

You can demonstrate your financial stability by providing recent bank statements and pay slips. If you are being sponsored, your sponsor will need to provide a sponsorship letter along with their financial documents to show that they can support your stay.

Tip: To strengthen your application, maintain a consistent balance in your bank account over the six months leading up to your application. Sudden large deposits without clear justification can raise red flags.

What can I do if my bank balance fluctuates significantly?
If your bank balance fluctuates significantly, it�s important to provide additional context to avoid raising concerns with the visa officer:

Provide explanations: If there are large deposits or withdrawals, include a brief explanation in your Greece cover letter. For instance, if a large deposit is from a property sale or an annual bonus, mention this.

Submit additional proof: Provide other financial documents, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property documents, to demonstrate overall financial stability.

Consistency is key: If possible, try to maintain a consistent balance in your account in the months leading up to your application to show financial stability.

Tip: Be transparent about your financial situation and ensure all documents are in order to avoid suspicion or delays.

Can I show multiple sources of income to strengthen my visa application?
Yes, you can show multiple sources of income to strengthen your visa application. This can include:

Income from employment: Provide salary slips and bank statements showing regular income from your job.

Passive income: Include proof of passive income from investments, rentals, or other sources.

Sponsorships: If someone else is sponsoring your trip, include their financial documents along with a sponsorship letter.

Tip: Clearly list and explain all income sources in your cover letter to provide a comprehensive view of your financial situation.

Are income tax returns mandatory for a Greece tourist visa application?
Yes, income tax returns (ITR) for the past two years are generally mandatory when applying for a Greece visa. The ITR documents are helpful in demonstrating your financial stability to sustain yourself during your stay in Greece.

Note: If you are unable to provide ITRs for any reason, include a detailed explanation in your cover letter and provide alternative proof of income or financial stability.

What should I do if I haven�t filed income tax returns for the past two years?
If you haven't filed income tax returns (ITRs) for the past two years, this may pose a challenge for your visa application. However, you can take the following steps to address the situation:

Provide a cover letter: Write a cover letter explaining why you haven�t filed ITRs. Common reasons might include recent employment, income below the taxable threshold, or being a dependent.

Submit alternative documents: Include other financial documents that prove your income and financial stability, such as bank statements, salary slips, or investment documents.

Sponsor's ITR: If someone else is sponsoring your trip, submit their ITRs along with a sponsorship letter to strengthen your application.

I am a housewife with no independent income. What are the documents I can submit to get my Greece visa approved?
As a housewife with no independent income, you can provide the following documents to support your Greece visa application:

Sponsorship letter: Obtain a sponsorship letter from your spouse or a close family member who will sponsor your trip. The letter should clearly state the relationship between you and the sponsor and their commitment to covering your travel expenses.

Sponsor's financial documents: Submit your sponsor�s bank statements, income tax returns, and salary slips as proof of financial support.

Proof of relationship: Depending on your relationship with the sponsor, include a copy of the document (like a marriage certificate) that establishes your relationship with your sponsor.

Proof of shared assets: If applicable, provide documents showing jointly owned property or bank accounts, which further prove your financial stability.

Tip: Ensure all sponsorship documents are well-organised and clearly demonstrate that your financial needs during the trip will be met.

How can a businessman succeed in obtaining a Greece tourist visa?
If you are a businessman, you can enhance your Greece visa application by demonstrating financial stability and the purpose of your travel. Here�s what to do:

Business financial statements: Submit financial statements of your business, such as profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, and bank statements, covering at least six months.

Company registration documents: Provide copies of your business registration documents, including your GST certificate, company PAN card, and incorporation certificate.

Business Tax Returns: Include your business�s income tax returns for the past two years to demonstrate financial health and stability.

Invitation letter: If travelling for business purposes, include an invitation letter from your Greek business partner or the organisation you will be visiting. The letter should outline the purpose and duration of your visit.

Tip: In your cover letter, clearly link your business activities to the purpose of your visit to establish the legitimacy of your trip.

I am unemployed. Can I still get a Greece tourist visa?
Yes, you can get a Greece visa even if you are unemployed. However, in addition to bank statements and ITRs, you will need to provide additional documentation to demonstrate your ability to support yourself during your stay. These can include:

Proof of passive income: Submit documents showing regular income from passive sources, such as rental agreements, dividend statements, or interest income from investments.

Property or investment documents: If applicable, provide proof of ownership of assets that generate passive income, such as property deeds or investment certificates.

Tip: Clearly explain the nature of your passive income in your cover letter and ensure that all financial documents support your claims.

How can a retired individual succeed in applying for a Greece tourist visa?
If you are retired, you can succeed in your Greece visa application by demonstrating that you have sufficient funds and a clear purpose for your visit. Here�s what to do:

Pension statements: Provide your pension statements for the past six months as proof of a steady income stream.

Bank statements: Submit bank statements showing a healthy balance and consistent pension credits.

Proof of savings or investments: Include documents showing savings or investments that contribute to your financial stability, such as fixed deposits, mutual funds, or property ownership.

Retirement proof: Provide a copy of your retirement certificate or letter from your previous employer confirming your retirement status.

Travel itinerary and accommodation: Clearly outline your travel plans and accommodation arrangements in Greece.

Tip: If a family member is sponsoring your trip, include a sponsorship letter and proof of their financial capacity to support your stay.

How can I show strong ties to India when applying for a Greece Schengen visa?
To convince the consular officer that you will return to India after your trip, you need to demonstrate strong ties to your home country. This can done by providing the following documents:

Employment proof: If employed, provide a letter from your employer confirming your position, salary, and approved leave, mentioning that your job will be waiting for you upon return.

Property ownership: Submit documents proving ownership of property or real estate in India, such as a house or land. This applies to anyone, including retirees, housewives, or unemployed individuals, as property ownership demonstrates strong roots in India.

Family ties: Show family ties by providing marriage certificates or birth certificates of your dependent children. This is particularly relevant for housewives or those not employed, as showing your family responsibilities reinforces your commitment to returning home.

Educational commitments: If you are a student, include a letter from your educational institution confirming your enrollment and the date of your return to continue your studies.

Tip: The more evidence you provide of your ties to India, the stronger your case for returning home after your trip.

How can I prove the purpose of my trip when applying for a Greece Schengen visa?
You can prove the purpose of your trip by providing the following documents:

Tourism: Hotel reservations, a detailed travel itinerary, and return flight tickets.

Business: An invitation letter from a company or business partner in the Schengen Area, along with details of meetings or conferences you plan to attend.

Family visit: An invitation letter from your host in the Schengen Country, along with their proof of residence and relationship to you.

Tip: Be as specific as possible in your cover letter, detailing the activities and plans during your stay to strengthen your application.

Do I need a cover letter for my Greece Schengen visa?
Yes, a cover letter is typically required for a Schengen visa application. It should include:

Personal information: Your name, address, and passport number.

Purpose of visit: Detailed explanation of why you�re visiting (tourism, business, family visit).

Itinerary: Your travel dates, accommodation, and places you plan to visit.

Financial means: State how you�ll finance your trip and attach supporting documents.

Intent to return: Explain your ties to your home country, ensuring you�ll return after your trip.

flyaway consultancy will help you with a customizable cover letter during the application process, free of cost.

I�ll be staying with a friend in Greece. Do I need an invitation letter?
Yes, if you�re staying with a friend in the Schengen Area, you will need an invitation letter from them.

A Schengen invitation letter is a document provided by someone you plan to visit in the Schengen Area, stating that they invite you and will accommodate you during your stay. The letter should typically include:

Your friend�s information: Name, address, and a copy of their passport or residency permit.

Accommodation details: Confirmation that they will host you during your stay.

Relationship: A brief explanation of your relationship with the host and the purpose of your visit.

What should I do if my passport is set to expire soon, but I need to apply for a Greece visa?
If your passport is set to expire soon, it is advisable to renew it before applying for a Greece visa. Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the expiry of your Schengen visa.

What if I only have one empty page left in my passport, but my passport has not expired?
If your passport has only one empty page left, it may suffice for the visa to be issued. However, it is important to note that immigration authorities at your destination might require additional empty spaces for entry and exit stamps.

Recommendation: It is advisable to renew your passport if you have limited blank pages remaining. An Indian passport renewal through the 'Tatkal' (express) service typically takes around 3 days.

Can I apply for a Greece Schengen visa if I have overstayed on a previous visa?
Yes, you can apply for a Greece Schengen visa if you have overstayed on a previous visa, but you must be prepared to explain the circumstances of the overstay and provide evidence that it was unintentional or unavoidable.

Tip: A clear and honest explanation, along with supporting documents (such as medical records if the overstay was due to health reasons), can help mitigate the negative impact of a previous overstay.

How do I get a multiple-entry Greece Schengen visa?
To obtain a multiple-entry Greece Schengen visa, particularly under the new rules favourable for Indian citizens, follow these steps:

Establish a travel history: First, obtain and lawfully use two Schengen visas within the previous three years.

Apply for a multiple-entry visa: After meeting the above condition, apply for a multiple-entry visa, which can be valid for up to two years initially. If you use this visa correctly, you can then apply for a five-year multiple-entry visa.

Ensure passport validity: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity to cover the entire duration of the multiple-entry visa you seek.

Provide strong justifications: Your application should include reasons for needing multiple entries, such as frequent business trips, family visits, or ongoing travel requirements.

Use the Cascade Regime: The Visa Code Regulation (EC) No 810/2009 governs the issuance of Schengen visas. Under the EU's "cascade" regime, Indian citizens can progress from a two-year visa to a five-year visa, enjoying travel rights similar to visa-free nationals if all conditions are met.

For more detailed guidance, visit the European External Action Service.

What are the chances of getting a long-term Greece visa for Indians?
The chances of obtaining a long-term Greece Schengen visa (valid for up to 5 years) depend on several factors, including:

Previous travel history: A positive history of compliance with Schengen visa rules, including timely departures.

Strong justification: A well-documented need for frequent travel to Greece or other Schengen Countries, such as for business or family reasons.

Complete and accurate application: A thoroughly completed application with all necessary documents and no discrepancies.

Note: While exact approval rates for long-term visas are not publicly available, applicants with a strong travel history and clear reasons for multiple visits have a higher likelihood of approval.

How to apply for a Greece visa from India?
Here�s how you can apply for a Greek tourist visa from India:

1. Gather Your Documents:
Start by collecting all the required documents, such as your valid passport, the last three months� bank statements, payslips, income tax returns, and any other documents listed in the requirements.

2. Log in to flyaway consultancy:
Visit the flyaway consultancy website or open the mobile app. Select Greece as your destination.

3. Book Your Appointment:
Fill in your details, upload the necessary documents, and pay the appointment fee. Once you're done, you�ll receive a confirmation for your visa appointment.

4. Submit Your Documents:
Go to the visa application centre on your scheduled date. flyaway consultancy will arrange for your documents to be submitted in the correct order. During your visit, you�ll also complete the required biometrics (fingerprints and facial scans).

5. Pay the flyaway consultancy & Service Fee:
Pay the flyaway consultancy Fee and wait for the processing, including travel insurance and courier fees, to be completed.

6. Receive Your Visa:
Once approved, your passport with a Greek tourist visa stamp will be delivered directly to your home.

Tip: Begin your visa application process at least 6-8 weeks before your planned travel date to account for processing time and any unforeseen delays.

How does the Greece Schengen visa look like?
Here is a sample of the Greek tourist visa: Do I need to submit my passport for Greece tourist visa processing?
Yes, you will need to submit your passport for Greece tourist visa processing. The passport is required for identity verification, for checking your travel history, and for affixing the visa sticker if approved.

Once a decision on your visa application has been made, you can collect the passport from the visa application centre or get it delivered to your doorstep if you opt for a courier service.

Is an interview mandatory when applying for a Greece-Schengen visa?
No, a consular interview is typically not mandatory for getting a visa to Greece. However, in special circumstances, such as discrepancies in your application or if the visa officer deems it necessary for further assessment, an interview may be requested.

What will be the process on the day of my Greece tourist visa appointment?
On the day of your Greece tourist visa appointment, here�s what will happen:

Document submission: You will submit all the supporting documents, including your passport, photographs, and bank statements, along with the visa application form.

Pay the visa fee: You will need to pay the Greece visa fee and keep the receipt for your records.

Biometrics: You will be required to provide biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph) unless you have submitted this data within the last 59 months.

Tip: Ensure all your documents are complete and well-organised before your appointment to avoid any delays in processing.

Can someone collect the passport from the Greece Visa Application Centre on my behalf?
Yes, if you cannot collect the passport in person, you may authorise another person to collect it on your behalf.

The authorised person will need to bring the following documents at the time of passport collection:

Original payment receipt of the applicant(s);

An original signed and certified authorisation letter from the applicant;

A photocopy of the applicant�s ID;

Original and a photocopy of the ID proof of the authorised person.

Can I expedite the processing of my Greece Schengen visa application?
No, there is no official expedited processing service for Schengen visas. That is why it is essential to apply well in advance and ensure your application is complete and accurate to prevent any further delay.

Can I include multiple family members in one Schengen visa application?
No, each family member must submit a separate Schengen visa application, including children and infants. Each applicant must meet the requirements and provide their own set of documents.

Tip: When applying as a family, submit all applications together to ensure they are processed simultaneously and to streamline the appointment process.

Can I work on a Greece tourist visa?
No, you cannot legally work (including remote work) or engage in any form of employment while on a Greece tourist visa. The visa is intended for tourism, leisure, or short-term visits, not for work purposes.

Consequences: If caught working, you could face penalties, deportation, and future visa bans.

Tip: If you plan to work while travelling in Greece or the Schengen Area, you should apply for a specific visa that allows for this type of activity, such as a digital nomad visa, where available.

What happens if I lose my passport with a Greece visa while travelling?
If you lose your passport with a Greece visa while travelling, you should immediately report the loss to the local police and obtain a police report. You will then need to visit the nearest Indian embassy or consulate to apply for an emergency passport. You can also inquire about the possibility of reissuing the visa.

Tip: Keep photocopies of your passport, visa, and other important documents in a secure place, separate from the originals, to facilitate the replacement process.

My travel dates have been postponed. Is my Greece visa still valid?
If your Greece visa is approved but your travel dates have changed, you can still use the visa as long as the new travel dates fall within the visa�s validity period. However, if your new travel dates are outside the visa�s validity, you will need to apply for a new visa.

Tip: When booking flights and accommodations, ensure they align with the visa�s validity period to avoid complications.

Can I bring prescription medication into Greece on a Schengen visa?
Yes, you can bring prescription medication into Greece on a Schengen visa, but you should carry a prescription or a doctor�s letter that includes important information, such as your name, the name of the medication, dosage, usage and the prescribed amount on the official letterhead.

Can I bring my pet to Greece with a Schengen visa?
Yes, you can bring your pet to Greece with a Schengen visa, but there are specific requirements you must meet:

Microchip: Your pet must be microchipped with an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit pet microchip.

Rabies vaccination: Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies, and the vaccination must be administered at least 21 days before travel.

Veterinary certificate: If travelling from outside the EU, a third-country official veterinary certificate is required.

Tapeworm treatment: Dogs must be treated for tapeworm 24-120 hours before entering Greece.

Tip: You must check the specific pet import requirements for Greece and the Schengen Area well in advance of your trip to ensure compliance.

What is the Greece visa processing time for Indians?
The Greece Visa processing time for Indians typically takes 15 working days for those submitting their application at the Greece Visa Application Centre (GVAC) in Delhi.

If you submitted your application at a GVAC other than Delhi, the processing time will be extended by an additional 5 days. This is due to the added time required to transfer the application to the Embassy in Delhi for final processing.

Note: This timeframe sometimes gets extended due to requests for additional documentation or interviews by the consular or increased application volumes during peak travel seasons. Hence, to ensure your visa is processed in time, submit your application at least 4-6 weeks before your intended travel date with complete and error-free documentation.

How can I check the status of my Greece tourist visa application online?
You can easily track the status of your Greece visa application using the flyaway consultancy Greece visa status tracking tool.

What can I do to ensure my Greece visa application is approved?
As of 2023, the rejection rate for Indians applying for a Greece Schengen visa at the consulate was 28.4%, compared to 34.7% in 2022. Although there has been a decrease in the rejection rate, it is still higher, meaning that nearly one in three Greece visa applications could be denied.

Hence, it is important to take the following precautions to ensure a successful Greece visa application.

Complete and correct documentation: Ensure all required documents are accurate, complete, and meet the specified Greece visa requirements. Always be truthful and transparent in your application. Any inconsistencies or false information can lead to immediate rejection.

Clear purpose of visit: Ambiguities in your travel purpose, itinerary, or reasons for visiting can lead to rejection. Ensure that you provide a believable and coherent travel plan that aligns with your stated purpose of visit. Your travel itinerary should align with the flight tickets and hotel reservations.

Sufficient financial proof: Clearly demonstrate that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in Greece and other Schengen States if visiting.

Valid travel insurance: Obtain comprehensive travel insurance that meets the mandatory coverage requirements.

Strong proof of ties to India: Failure to prove strong ties to India could indicate a risk of overstaying. You must provide strong evidence, such as an employment letter, property deed or family ties, that clearly shows the authorities that you will not overstay.

Tip: For a better and more detailed understanding, read our comprehensive blog on the most common Schengen visa rejection reasons and how to avoid them.

Will I get a refund if my Schengen visa application is rejected?
Generally, the Greece Schengen visa fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is rejected, but when applied from flyaway consultancy, under flyaway consultancy Protect (free), you are eligible for a refund.



What can I do if my Greece visa application is rejected?
If your Greece tourist visa application is rejected, you have two options:

Reapply: You can reapply after addressing the reasons for rejection, ensuring all documents are complete and accurate.

Appeal: Alternatively, you can appeal the decision within 30 days of the rejection date. To do so, gather any missing documents or information and write a compelling appeal letter explaining why your visa should be granted.