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Greece visas

Greece visa on arrival

Greece can issue a Schengen visa at the border in exceptional circumstances. This is not a routine way to arrange a holiday.

Ways to get a Greece visa on arrival

  1. Exceptional single-entry border visa

    Visa on arrival

    Travellers who can prove that unforeseeable, compelling circumstances prevented an advance application, and who meet the normal visa criteria, may qualify.

    Stay
    Up to 15 days.
    Valid for
    Up to 15 days.
    Entries
    Single entry.
    1. Present evidence of the exceptional circumstances at the border.
    2. Provide evidence that you meet the regular visa requirements.

Who needs it

This route is for people who need a visa but can prove that unforeseeable, compelling circumstances prevented an advance application.

How to apply

  1. Present evidence at the border explaining why unforeseeable, compelling circumstances prevented an advance application.
  2. Show that you meet the normal Schengen visa criteria.

What to bring

  • Evidence of the circumstances that prevented an advance application.
  • Documents showing that you meet the normal visa criteria.

Good to know

  • You must meet the regular requirements for a Schengen visa.
  • If consultation with other Schengen countries is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian, national-interest or international-obligation cases.
  • An airline may refuse boarding if you do not already have the required travel documents.
  • Separate border visa rules are described for family members of EU single market citizens.

Questions

Do I need a visa on arrival for Greece?

This route is for people who need a visa but can prove that unforeseeable, compelling circumstances prevented an advance application.

How long can I stay on a Greece visa on arrival?

Up to 15 days.

How long is a Greece visa on arrival valid?

Up to 15 days. Entries: Single entry..

What documents do I need for a Greece visa on arrival?

Evidence of the circumstances that prevented an advance application.; Documents showing that you meet the normal visa criteria..

How do I apply for a Greece visa on arrival?

1. 1. Present evidence at the border explaining why unforeseeable, compelling circumstances prevented an advance application. 2. 2. Show that you meet the normal Schengen visa criteria.

What rules do I have to follow on a Greece visa on arrival?

You must meet the regular requirements for a Schengen visa. If consultation with other Schengen countries is required, a border visa is limited to exceptional humanitarian, national-interest or international-obligation cases.

Does my passport change whether I need a visa on arrival for Greece?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Greece visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a visa on arrival for Greece be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Greece visa on arrival rules?

On Greece's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my visa on arrival once I am in Greece?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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