Updated rules for travelling to Greece in 2023

Acropolis Museum2

Rules have been relaxed in Greece, but some settings still require masks.

With 3,000 islands scattered around the Mediterranean sea — about 100 inhabited — you will find one to suit your needs. And that’s not forgetting the mainland, with its dynamic cities, classical ruins and remote mountain regions.

Here’s what you need to know about the entry requirements for Greece and the best things to do when you’re there.

What are Greece’s entry requirements?

All Covid-related travel restrictions were dropped in May 2022. It means travellers no longer need to show any proof of vaccination or negative Covid tests, regardless of vaccination status. You don’t have to fill in a passenger locator form either.

You Do Need An ETIAS

While most citizens need a visa to visit Greece, the European Union requires all visitors to apply for an ETIAS starting November 2023, which will track all those who enter and exit its countries. The ETIAS form can be filled out online, costs a fee of €7 ($8), and is usually automatically approved in a few minutes. Once an ETIAS is obtained, it will be valid for three years or till the passport expires.

The fees apply to adults between the ages of 18 and 70. Minors and elder travellers (aged 70+) will not have to pay fees. Immediately after you complete the payment, the ETIAS authorization will start processing.

Cash Is King

On paper, all Greek businesses are legally required to accept credit and debit cards. Still, Greece has several tiny islands and remote villages with cash-only independent stores. If you're venturing beyond the big cities, be prepared to shell out cash. Besides, even though Greece is moving towards a cash-free economy, most still prefer cash over cards which can be an advantage for tourists looking to save on the additional fees that some cards charge on each international transaction.

Check The Validity Of Your Passport

Travelling to Greece is reasonably straightforward, and its relatively lax restrictions make it an excellent destination for spontaneous travellers. Besides an approved ETIAS, the only other thing to check is the validity of your passport.

Greece requires that visitors hold a passport valid for at least three months after the date of departure from the European Union. Additionally, if your flight back involves transit, make sure to check the requirements of the transit country as well. Some may require passports to be valid for six months beyond the date of departure.

What are the rules once there?

It’s still a legal requirement to wear masks on public transport. This also applies to taxis and indoor spaces on boats. You won't need to wear a mask in most other touristic settings (unless you need to visit a hospital or pharmacy).

Read More -Here is why you now need a visa waiver to visit Greece in 2023

GCT Team

This article was researched and written by a GCT team member.

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