A trip to Greece is a dream for many Indian travellers and we are sure you'll agree. From exploring the whitewashed streets of Santorini to visiting the Acropolis in Athens, Greece is as beautiful as it can get. But before you book your tickets, you need to know the visa requirements. Since Greece is a part of the Schengen Zone, Indian citizens require a Schengen Visa to travel there. Here we break down everything you need to know about applying for a Greece visa from India.
Do Indians Need a Visa to Visit Greece?
Yes. Indian passport holders must apply for a Schengen Visa to enter Greece. This visa allows travellers to visit Greece as well as other countries in the Schengen Zone during the validity period.
Types of Greece Schengen Visa for Indians
- Tourist Visa - for leisure trips, sightseeing, or visiting family and friends.
- Business Visa - for attending meetings, conferences, or work-related activities.
- Transit Visa - for passing through Greece to another destination.
Most Indian travellers apply for the short-stay Schengen Visa (up to ninety days).
Greece attracts several tourists every year.
Greece Visa Fees for Indians
- Adults: approximately 80 euros (around 7200 Indian rupees)
- Children between six and twelve years: approximately 40 euros (around 3600 Indian rupees)
- Children under six years: free of charge
Do note that VFS service charges are additional.
Documents Required for Greece Visa Application
- A valid Indian passport (with at least six months' validity and two blank pages).
- Completed Schengen visa application form.
- Recent passport-sized photographs.
- Travel itinerary with confirmed flight tickets.
- Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter).
- Travel insurance covering medical expenses up to thirty thousand euros.
- Proof of financial means (bank statements for the past three months, salary slips, or sponsorship letter).
How to Apply for a Greece Visa from India
- Fill the application form - available on the official VFS Global website.
- Schedule an appointment - submit biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) at the nearest VFS centre.
- Submit documents - ensure all paperwork is in order.
- Pay the visa fee - in Indian rupees at the applicable exchange rate.
- Track your application - online through VFS.
- Wait for processing - which usually takes about fifteen working days, though it can be longer in peak season.
Also Read: How To Apply For Australian Tourist Visa: Tips, Fees And Common Mistakes To Avoid
Schengen visa is going fully digital. Photo: Unsplash
Greece Visa Processing Time
On average, it takes around fifteen to twenty working days to process a Greece visa application. However, during festive seasons or holidays, it may take longer, so it's best to apply at least four weeks in advance.
Also Read: 7 Best Countries Where Indians Can Get A Tourist Visa Easily
Some more questions you may have regarding Greece visa application
1. How long can Indians stay in Greece with a Schengen Visa?
Indians can stay for up to ninety days within a one hundred and 80-day period on a short-stay Schengen Visa.
2. Can I use the Greece Schengen Visa to travel to other countries?
Yes. A Greece Schengen Visa allows entry to all twenty-seven Schengen countries, provided Greece is your first or main destination.
3. Do I need travel insurance for my Greece trip?
Yes. Travel insurance covering up to thirty thousand euros in medical expenses is mandatory for Schengen visa approval.
4. Can I work in Greece with a Schengen Visa?
No. The Schengen Visa is strictly for tourism, business, or family visits. You will need a separate work visa for employment.
5. Where do I apply for the Greece Visa in India?
You can apply through VFS Global visa application centres located in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai.
Applying for a Greece visa from India is straightforward if you prepare your documents in advance and apply on time. With the Schengen Visa in hand, you can not only explore Greece's beautiful islands and ancient ruins but also travel across Europe with ease. So, if you're planning a trip under the Mediterranean sun, make sure your paperwork is ready and start your Greek adventure stress-free.
