Greek passport holders, particularly those residing outside of Greece, were thrilled last year to learn that the validity of Greek passports increased.
As of September 1st 2022, according to Law 4962/2022, Article 87 «Legislative Regulations for passport issuance», passports issued after 01.09.2022 to adults or minors exceeding the age of 14 years old, will have a ten-year validity period, without alteration of the required administrative fees.
The validity of Greek passports now meets international standards
With this provision, Greece is now in line with international passport validity standards.
This is an arrangement that, among other things, and without changing the required fixed stamp fees for citizens, is part of the Ministry's wider planning to reduce bureaucracy, save personnel from processing cases and the reduction, in general, of unnecessary expenses and working hours
It is noted that the Ministry of Citizen Protection is taking all the necessary procedures to ensure not only the full and timely satisfaction of Greece's International obligations, but also the acquisition of high-standard security documents that it issues in the future, fully compatible with European and International regulations.
Greek City Times can confirm from personal recent experience, that the renewal process in Greece November 2022, was simple and speedy.
In this instance: Greek Australian with dual passports/citizenship. Dual citizens have two passports (one from each country) that can enjoy the rights, privileges, and responsibilities of each country.
What you need to know:
Additional information:
If you have a (ταυτότητα) Greek I.D. it is imperative that your details on your Greek passport match to your Greek I.D. e.g.- your name must be exactly as it is shown on the I.D. and as it is registered in the Greece government system. If you have a an (Α.Φ.Μ.) a Greek TFN (Tax File Number) your details must be entered into the system in Greek (not English) and match your Greek I.D. Trust us on this one!
If your details don't match, this will only delay your application process and we all know how frustrating that can be. You will be directed to the tax office to have this amended. This is a time consuming process in itself if you don't have a lawyer acting on your behalf.
Greece's passport website is: https://passport.gov.gr/ you will find lots of helpful and insightful information on there, it is also where you will track your passport status application.
We are all aware how frustrating Greece's processes can be....trust and respect the process. Stay calm and be considerate to the service people during your quest, they are only doing their job and following procedural laws. Keep in mind it's not their fault and it pays to be courteous! Being polite goes a long way, you will find people will go out of their way to be of greater assistance.
This article will prompt many questions and interest on how to obtain a Greek passport, you can read our article: https://greekcitytimes.com/2022/05/18/requirements-and-process-of-obtaining-a-greek-passport/ as a starting point to guide you.
If you are eligible for a Greek passport, make 2023 the year to get yours!