17.05.2022

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

COVID-19 travel restrictions have been lifted in Greece. Providing proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 or negative test results is no longer necessary.

Learn more:
Travel.gov.gr
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

COVID-19 travel restrictions have been lifted in Greece. Providing proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 or negative test results is no longer necessary.

Learn more:
Travel.gov.gr
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice

National health measures

In Greece, providing proof of vaccination, recovery from COVID-19 or a negative test result is no longer required to access public places.

Learn more:
GreeceHealthFirst

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

Information on Tourism at Regional level

Attiki
NISIA AIGAIOU, KRITI
Voreio Aigaio
Notio Aigaio
Kriti
VOREIA ELLADA
Anatoliki Makedonia, Thraki
Kentriki Makedonia
Dytiki Makedonia
Ipeiros
KENTRIKI ELLADA
Thessalia
Ionia Nisia
Dytiki Ellada
Sterea Ellada
Peloponnisos

______________________________________________________________________________________________

08.03.2022

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Document checklist

Travellers flying to Greece must provide all the following documents:

1. Fill in the Passenger Locator Form before departure. Note: the Passenger Locator Form will not be required anymore as of 15 March.
   
   
2. Provide a valid 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' or equivalent documents, meeting the requirements listed in the sections below.

Entry rules

Travellers selected randomly might be subject to mandatory rapid antigen tests upon arrival. Travellers who test positive must quarantine for 5 days, if they have no fever. Otherwise, they must remain in isolation until they have no fever. Quarantine is lifted when isolated travellers provide a negative result to a molecular (PCR) test.

Children younger than 5 are exempt from the requirements listed above.

Specific information for travellers arriving by land and by sea is available on Greece Health First - travel advice.

These rules are valid until 21 March.

Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate

Travellers can enter Greece without further restrictions (testing or quarantine), if their 'EU Digital COVID certificate' (EUDCC) contains one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination.
  Validity: 9 months after the primary vaccination series is completed, and until further notice after the booster dose.
  Accepted vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer BioNtech), Spikevax (Moderna), Vaxzevria (Astra Zeneca/Oxford), Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Novavax, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
  
  
• Proof of recovery from COVID-19, valid 6 months.
  
  
• A negative result to a pre-departure molecular test (valid 72 hours) or rapid antigen test (valid 24 hours)

Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements

All travellers aged 5 or older can enter Greece without further restrictions (testing or quarantine) if they can provide certificates meeting the same requirements listed above for the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate'.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates, etc.) in Greek, English, German, French, Italian Spanish or Russian. The holder's full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document. 

Learn more:
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice
Travel.gov.gr
Greece's Ministry of Health

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Entry rules

Different rules apply to travellers from the countries and entities listed on GreeceHealthFirst and travellers from other areas.

The page Greece Health First - travel advice lists additional requirements for travellers from specific countries. It also provides information for travellers entering Greece by land and by sea.

Children younger than 5 are exempt from the requirements listed below.

Note: travellers selected randomly might be subject to mandatory rapid testing upon arrival. Travellers who test positive must quarantine for 5 days, if they have no fever. Otherwise, they must remain in isolation until they have no fever. Quarantine is lifted when isolated travellers provide a negative result to a molecular (PCR) test.

These rules are valid until 21 March.

Document checklist

Residents of EU and Schengen Associated countries and of countries listed on GreeceHealthFirst who fly to Greece and are aged 5 or older must provide all the following documents:

1. Fill in the Passenger Locator Form before departure. Note: Ukrainian nationals are not required to submit the Passenger Locator Form. As of 15 March, it will not be required anymore.
   
   
2. An 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) containing one of the following:
   Proof of full vaccination.
   Validity: 9 months after the primary vaccination series is completed, and until further notice after the booster dose.
   Accepted vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer BioNtech), Spikevax (Moderna), Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca/Oxford), Novavax, Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
   
   Or
   
   Proof of recovery from COVID-19, valid 6 months.
   
   Or
   
   A negative result to a pre-departure molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid antigen test, valid 24 hours.

Travellers from other countries must provide a negative result to a pre-departure test, regardless of their vaccination status. Both molecular tests (PCR, valid 72 hours) and rapid antigen tests (valid 24 hours) are accepted. Tests must be issued by an accredited testing laboratory in English.

Learn more:
Travel.gov.gr
Greece's Ministry of Health

What are the rules if I go abroad from this country, and when I return from abroad?

Please, consult the rules to travel to Greece on the sections entering from an EU or Schengen Associated country or from outside EU and Schengen Associated countries, depending on your country of departure.

May I transit this country?

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restrictions.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

General measures

Important: in Greece, the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access some public spaces, including catering establishments, indoor venues and touristic attractions.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming the holder's identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination, valid 9 months after the primary vaccination series is completed, and until further notice after the booster dose.
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive result.
• Only accepted in some cases: negative test result.

Please, consult the sections below for details.

Find out more
National Public Health Organization
GreeceHealthFirst

Use of facemasks

It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all indoors spaces and public transport means.

Wearing high-protection facemasks (KN95 / FFP2) is required in supermarkets, and for staff working in catering establishments and hospitals.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events

Live events (theatre or dance performances, concerts etc.) are held in open-air venues with seated guests only and at 65% - 75% capacity, depending on the size of each venue. Indoor venues (up to 85% capacity) admit visitors with a vaccination certificate, or with a Covid-19 infection medical certificate issued not sooner than 30 days after testing positive. Spectators have to purchase an e-ticket, wear a face mask, and respect the health and safety guidelines.

Safety measures for public transportation

Passengers of public transportation and taxi passengers are obliged to wear a facemask. This includes passengers of ferries, dayboats and sea taxis. Taxis are allowed to carry up to three (3) passengers in addition to the driver, except when carrying family members.

Places of worship

Places of worship are open under specific hygiene protocols. The obligation to use a mask is imposed, as part of the emergency measures. 

Quarantine

In case of close contact with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case, it is necessary to monitor your health for the 14 days following the last contact. It is advisable to communicate regularly (daily) with a health professional for the entire duration of the monitoring period. Furthermore, it is required to: 

• stay in a ventilated room;
• limit the number of those who care for the person, ideally, it should be a person who does not belong to a high-risk group;
• avoid any visit;
• accommodate the other family members in a different room and if this is not possible, keep a distance of at least two metres;
• limit the person's movements at home as much as possible;
• maintain good ventilation of common areas;
• observe a good hand washing;
• always cover mouth and nose during coughing or sneezing;
• avoid any contact with potentially contaminated objects;
• daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and objects in the patient's room.

If the person develops some respiratory symptoms (such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficult breathing), it is advisable to call the doctor or the EODY (tel: 1135, 210 5212 054), in order to receive specific instructions.

Upon arrival in Greece, travellers may be randomly selected (“EVA” sampling system) for a mandatory RAPID antigen test. Following the sampling test, mandatory isolation is required for travellers testing positive for SARS-Cov-2. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis and stay in isolation for a maximum of 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Find out more:
Instructions for ending isolation and quarantine (in Greek)

Tourist accommodations

Tourist accommodation establishment managers are required to create an action plan, to have a health protocol in place for each part of the establishment and be ready to deal with a potential COVID-19 case, in accordance with the current guidelines of the National Public Health Organisation (e.g., hotel quarantine area).

Catering establishments

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access restaurants, cafes, nightclubs, late-night bars, pubs.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Only accepted outdoors: negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Maximum 6 people can sit at each table, both indoors and outdoors.
• Outdoors, 2 customers can sit at the counter, keeping a 1.5m distance from other customers.
• The use of facemasks is mandatory for customers waiting for a table, and strongly recommended for those already seated.

Cinemas, museums and indoor attractions

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access archaeological sites, museums and monuments in indoors spaces, cinemas, theatres, concerts, live performances, etc.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Wearing facemasks and respecting distancing measures is required.
• In archaeological sites, up to 20 visitors can enter in troups. This limit does not apply to families and to groups following a tour guide, which may include up to 40 individuals.
• Cinemas, theatres and live events venues operate at 50% capacity (for a mixed audience) or at 75% capacity (for an immunised audience). Electronic tickets must be issued.

Personal care services

Different restrictions apply in "red" and "yellow" areas (find out more at covid19.gov.gr/covid-map)

Outdoors areas and beaches

Sports stadiums can operate at 50% capacity.

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access archaeological sites, open-air cinemas and live event venues.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Open air cinemas operate at 75% capacity for mixed areas (accommodating immunised and non-immunised spectators), and 100% capacity in areas accommodating only immunised spectators.
• Live events in open spaces can only accommodate seated spectators, at 65% capacity (for mixed audiences) and at 100% capacity (for immunised audiences).
• Beaches with amenities are open across Greece, provided that arrangements are made for the necessary distancing among visitors. With the exception of families, each umbrella can be used by 2 individuals only.

Health protocols for tourism services and tourists

The strict health safety protocols applied at the national level will be followed.
These protocols are available at: Safety protocols for tourism services

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

_________________________________________________________________________________-

24.01.2022

EU Digital COVID Certificates

Information on 'EU Digital COVID Certificates' issued in Greece

Important: in Greece, the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) is required to access some public spaces, such as bars and restaurants, museums, swimming pools, large events, and some means of public transport. Please, consult the Measures section for further details. Travellers are strongly advised to carry relevant certificates at all times.

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Document checklist

Travellers must provide all the following documents:

1. Fill in the Passenger Locator Form before departure.
   
   
2. Provide a negative result to a pre-departure test. Both molecular tests (PCR, valid 72 hours) and rapid antigen tests (valid 24 hours) are accepted. Tests must be issued by an accredited testing laboratory in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish or Russian.
   
   
3. Provide proof of full vaccination or recovery from COVID-19. Details about these documents in the sections below.

Entry rules

Only residents of EU Member States, Schengen Associated countries and of countries listed on Greece Health First can enter Greece for non-essential reasons.

Travellers without a certificate of vaccination or recovery from Bulgaria must perform a test upon arrival. If the test is positive, they will have to perform a molecular (PCR) test to confirm the result.

Note: travellers selected randomly might be subject to mandatory rapid antigen tests upon arrival. Travellers who test positive must quarantine for 5 days, if they have no fever. Otherwise, they must remain in isolation until they have no fever. Quarantine is lifted when isolated travellers provide a negative result to a molecular (PCR) test.

Children younger than 5 are exempt from the requirements listed above.

Specific information for travellers arriving by land and by sea is available on Greece Health First - travel advice.

These rules apply until 31 January 2022, at 6.00.

Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate

All travellers aged 5 or older who enter Greece must provide a negative result to a pre-departure test. Both molecular tests (PCR, valid 72 hours) and rapid antigen tests (valid 24 hours) are accepted. Tests must be issued by an accredited testing laboratory in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish or Russian.

In addition, all travellers can enter Greece without further restrictions (testing or quarantine), if their 'EU Digital COVID certificate' (EUDCC) contains one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination.
  Validity: 14 days after the second dose of vaccine. For Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been administered).
  Accepted vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer BioNtech), Spikevax (Moderna), Vaxzevria (Astra Zeneca/Oxford), Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Novavax, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
  
  
• Proof of recovery from COVID-19. Validity: between 30 days and 3 months after the first positive result. Certificates issued between 15 July and 31 October (included) remain valid until 31 January 2022.

Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements

All travellers aged 5 or older can enter Greece without further restrictions (testing or quarantine) if they can provide certificates meeting the same requirements listed above for the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate'.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates, etc.) in Greek, English, German, French, Italian Spanish or Russian. The holder's full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document. 

Learn more:
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice
Travel.gov.gr
Greece's Ministry of Health

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Entry rules

Non-essential travel to Greece is allowed only to residents of EU and Schengen Associated countries, and of the countries and entities listed on GreeceHealthFirst(*). Citizens of other non-EU and non-Schengen Associated countries are not allowed to enter Greece for non-essential reasons.

Children younger than 5 are exempt from the requirements listed below.

Note: travellers selected randomly might be subject to mandatory rapid testing upon arrival. Travellers who test positive must quarantine for 5 days, if they have no fever. Otherwise, they must remain in isolation until they have no fever. Quarantine is lifted when isolated travellers provide a negative result to a molecular (PCR) test.

(*)Additional requirements for travellers from specific countries

• Residents of Argentina, Chile, India, Mexico, Oman, Russia and Uruguay must perform a molecular (PCR) or rapid antigen test upon arrival, regardless of whether or not they are vaccinated.
• Irrespective of their nationality, travellers without a certificate of vaccination or recovery flying from Albania, Argentina, Brazil, China, Cuba, Egypt, Georgia, India, Libya, Morocco, North Macedonia, Pakistan, Russia, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates must perform a test upon arrival. If the test result is positive, they will have to take a molecular (PCR) test to confirm the result.
• Irrespective of their nationality, travellers flying from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe must perform a molecular (PCR) or rapid antigen test upon arrival, and quarantine for 10 days in a quarantine hotel provided by the Greek state. Quarantine ends on day 10, if travellers perform a negative test result.

Specific information for travellers arriving by land and by sea is available on Greece Health First - travel advice.

Document checklist

Travellers aged 5 or older must provide all the following documents:

1. Fill in the Passenger Locator Form before departure.
   
   
2. Provide a negative result to a pre-departure test. Both molecular tests (PCR, valid 72 hours) and rapid antigen tests (valid 24 hours) are accepted. Tests must be issued by an accredited testing laboratory in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish or Russian.
   
   
3. Provide proof of full vaccination, issued by a certified authority.
   Validity: 14 days after the second dose of vaccine. For Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been administered.
   Accepted vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer BioNtech), Spikevax (Moderna), Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca/Oxford), Novavax, Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
   
   Or
   
   Proof of recovery from COVID-19, issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory. Validity: between 30 days and 3 months after the first positive result. Certificates issued between 15 July and 31 October 2021 (included) remain valid until 31 January 2022.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates etc.) in Greek, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian. The person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document.

These rules apply until 31 January 2022, at 6.00.

Learn more:
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice
Travel.gov.gr
Greece's Ministry of Health

What are the rules if I go abroad from this country, and when I return from abroad?

Please, consult the rules to travel to Greece on the sections entering from an EU or Schengen Associated country or from outside EU and Schengen Associated countries, depending on your country of departure.

May I transit this country?

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restrictions.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

General measures

Important: in Greece, the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access some public spaces, including catering establishments, indoor venues and touristic attractions.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming the holder's identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid between 30 days and 3 months after the first positive result. Certificates issued between 15 July and 31 October 2021 (included) remain valid.
• Only accepted in some cases: negative test result.

Please, consult the sections below for details.

Find out more
National Public Health Organization
GreeceHealthFirst

Use of facemasks

It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all indoor spaces and public transport means.

Until 31 January, wearing high protection facemasks (KN95/FFP2) is required in supermarkets, and for workers in catering establishments and hospitals.

The use of facemask is recommended in crowded outdoor areas.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events

Live events (theatre or dance performances, concerts etc.) are held in open-air venues with seated guests only and at 65% - 75% capacity, depending on the size of each venue. Indoor venues (up to 85% capacity) admit visitors with a vaccination certificate, or with a Covid-19 infection medical certificate issued not sooner than 30 days after testing positive. Spectators have to purchase an e-ticket, wear a face mask, and respect the health and safety guidelines.

Safety measures for public transportation

Passengers of public transportation and taxi passengers are obliged to wear a facemask. This includes passengers of ferries, dayboats and sea taxis. Taxis are allowed to carry up to three (3) passengers in addition to the driver, except when carrying family members.

Places of worship

OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS

Places of worship are open under specific hygiene protocols. The obligation to use a mask is imposed, as part of the emergency measures. 

Quarantine

In case of close contact with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case, it is necessary to monitor your health for the 14 days following the last contact. It is advisable to communicate regularly (daily) with a health professional for the entire duration of the monitoring period. Furthermore, it is required to: 

• stay in a ventilated room;
• limit the number of those who care for the person, ideally, it should be a person who does not belong to a high-risk group;
• avoid any visit;
• accommodate the other family members in a different room and if this is not possible, keep a distance of at least two metres;
• limit the person's movements at home as much as possible;
• maintain good ventilation of common areas;
• observe a good hand washing;
• always cover mouth and nose during coughing or sneezing;
• avoid any contact with potentially contaminated objects;
• daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and objects in the patient's room.

If the person develops some respiratory symptoms (such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficult breathing), it is advisable to call the doctor or the EODY (tel: 1135, 210 5212 054), in order to receive specific instructions.

Upon arrival in Greece, travellers may be randomly selected (“EVA” sampling system) for a mandatory RAPID antigen test. Following the sampling test, mandatory isolation is required for travellers testing positive for SARS-Cov-2. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis and stay in isolation for a maximum of 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Find out more:
Instructions for ending isolation and quarantine (in Greek)

Non-essential (other than medicine and food) shops

OPEN

Tourist accommodations

OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS

Tourist accommodation establishment managers are required to create an action plan, to have a health protocol in place for each part of the establishment and be ready to deal with a potential COVID-19 case, in accordance with the current guidelines of the National Public Health Organisation (e.g., hotel quarantine area).

Catering establishments

OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS

Until 31 January, restaurants, cafes and bars are open until midnight, and for seated customers only.

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access restaurants, cafes, nightclubs, late-night bars, pubs.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Only accepted outdoors: negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Maximum 6 people can sit at each table, both indoors and outdoors.
• Outdoors, 2 customers can sit at the counter, keeping a 1.5m distance from other customers.
• The use of facemasks is mandatory for customers waiting for a table, and strongly recommended for those already seated.

Cinemas, museums and indoor attractions

OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access archaeological sites, museums and monuments in indoors spaces, cinemas, theatres, concerts, live performances, etc.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Wearing facemasks and respecting distancing measures is required.
• In archaeological sites, up to 20 visitors can enter in troups. This limit does not apply to families and to groups following a tour guide, which may include up to 40 individuals.
• Cinemas, theatres and live events venues operate at 50% capacity (for a mixed audience) or at 75% capacity (for an immunised audience). Electronic tickets must be issued.

Personal care services

OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS

Different restrictions apply in "red" and "yellow" areas (find out more at covid19.gov.gr/covid-map)

Outdoors areas and beaches

OPEN WITH LIMITATIONS

Until 31 January, sports stadiums can only operate at 10% capacity, hosting between 1,000 and 2,000 spectators maximum.

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access archaeological sites, open-air cinemas and live event venues.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Open air cinemas operate at 75% capacity for mixed areas (accommodating immunised and non-immunised spectators), and 100% capacity in areas accommodating only immunised spectators.
• Live events in open spaces can only accommodate seated spectators, at 65% capacity (for mixed audiences) and at 100% capacity (for immunised audiences).
• Beaches with amenities are open across Greece, provided that arrangements are made for the necessary distancing among visitors. With the exception of families, each umbrella can be used by 2 individuals only.

Health protocols for tourism services and tourists

The strict health safety protocols applied at the national level will be followed.
These protocols are available at: Safety protocols for tourism services

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

________________________________________________________________________________________________________

07.12.2021

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Mandatory travel documentation
All travellers must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before departure to Greece, providing detailed information on their point of departure, the duration of previous stays in other countries, and the address of their stay while in Greece. In case of multiple stays, they are required to provide the address for the first 24 hours at least. One PLF should be submitted per family. More information on GreeceHealthFirst and travel.gov.gr.

In addition, all travellers aged 12 and older must provide proof of full vaccination, recovery or a negative test result, regardless of the epidemiological situation of their country of departure. Details about these documents are in the sections below.

Note: travellers without a certificate of vaccination or recovery from Bulgaria must perform a test upon arrival. If the test is positive, they will have to perform a molecular (PCR) test to confirm the result.

Children under 12 years old are exempt from these requirements.

Note: travellers selected randomly might be subject to mandatory rapid antigen tests at the entrance gates.Travellers who test positive must quarantine for 10 days. If they are fully vaccinated, quarantine lasts 7 days. In both cases, quarantine is lifted only if travellers perform a negative molecular (PCR) test on the last day of self-isolation.

Passengers can enter the country through all international airports and all ports.

Travellers can enter from the land borders through the entry gates of Promachonas, Ormenio, Evzonoi, Nymfaia, Niki, Doirani, Kristallopigi, Kipi (limit of 1500 passengers per week), Kakavia, Kastanies (limit of 1500 passengers per week), and Exohi.

Cruising and yachting is allowed.

Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate

All travellers older than 12 can enter Greece without further restrictions (testing or quarantine), if their 'EU Digital COVID certificate' (EUDCC) contains one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination.
  Validity: 14 days after the second dose of vaccine. For Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been administered).
  Accepted vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer BioNtech), Spikevax (Moderna), Vaxzevria (Astra Zeneca/Oxford), Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Novavax, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
• Proof of recovery from COVID-19. Validity: between 30 and 180 days after the first positive result.
• Negative result to a COVID-19 test. Both molecular (PCR) tests (performed within 72 hours before arrival) and rapid antigen tests (performed within 48 hours before arrival).
  Note: travellers without a certificate or vaccination or recovery flying from Bulgaria must perform a test upon arrival. If the test is positive, they will have to take a molecular (PCR) test to confirm the result.

Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements

All travellers older than 12 can enter Greece without further restrictions (testing or quarantine) if they can provide certificates meeting the same requirements listed above for the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate'.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates, etc.) in Greek, English, German, French, Italian Spanish or Russian. The holder's full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document. 

Find out more:
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice
Travel.gov.gr

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Non-essential travel to Greece is allowed only to residents of EU and Schengen Associated countries, and of the countries and entities listed on GreeceHealthFirst(*). Citizens of other non-EU and non-Schengen Associated countries are not allowed to enter Greece for non-essential reasons.

Mandatory travel documentation
All travellers must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) before departure to Greece, providing detailed information on their point of departure, the duration of previous stays in other countries, and the address of their stay while in Greece. In case of multiple stays, they are required to provide the address for the first 24 hours at least. One PLF should be submitted per family. More information on GreeceHealthFirst and travel.gov.gr.

In addition, all travellers aged 12 and older, regardless of the epidemiological situation of their country of departure, must provide one of the following documents:

• Proof of full vaccination, issued by a certified authority.
  Validity: 14 days after the second dose of vaccine. For Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been administered.
  Accepted vaccines: Comirnaty (Pfizer BioNtech), Spikevax (Moderna), Vaxzevria (AstraZeneca/Oxford), Novavax, Janssen (Johnson and Johnson), Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
• Proof of recovery from COVID-19, issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory. Validity: between 30 days and 6 months after the first positive result.
• Negative result to a COVID-19 test. Both molecular (PCR) tests (performed within 72 hours before arrival) and rapid antigen tests (performed within 48 hours before arrival) are accepted.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates etc.) in Greek, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian. The person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document.

(*)Additional requirements for travellers from specific countries

• Residents of the Russian Federation must always provide a negative result to a molecular PCR test (valid 72 hours) or a rapid antigen test (valid 48 hours), and will be subject to additional testing upon arrival, regardless of whether or not they are vaccinated.
• Residents of Argentina, Chile, India, Mexico, Oman and Uruguay must perform a molecular (PCR) or rapid antigen test upon arrival, regardless of whether or not they are vaccinated.
• Irrespective of their nationality, travellers without a certificate of vaccination or recovery flying from Albania, Argentina, Brazil, Bulgaria, China, Cuba, Egypt, Georgia, India, Libya, Morocco, North Macedonia, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, Turkey and the United Arab Emirates must perform a test upon arrival. If the test is positive, they will have to perform a molecular (PCR) test to confirm the result. Residents of Argentina, Chile, India, Oman and Uruguay must be tested upon arrival, even if they are vaccinated or have recovered (see above).

Children younger than 12 are exempt from the requirements mentioned above.

Note: travellers selected randomly might be subject to mandatory rapid testing at the entrance gates. Travellers who test positive must quarantine for 10 days. If they are fully vaccinated, quarantine lasts 7 days. In both cases, quarantine ends only if travellers perform a negative molecular (PCR) test on the last day of self-isolation.

Travellers can enter from the land borders through the entry gates of Promachonas, Ormenio, Evzonoi, Nymfaia, Niki, Doirani, Kristallopigi, Kipi (limit of 1500 passengers per week), Kakavia, Kastanies (limit of 1500 passengers per week), and Exohi.

Cruising and yachting is allowed. Maritime connections with Turkey are temporarily restricted.

Find out more:
GreeceHealthFirst - travel advice
Travel.gov.gr

What are the rules if I go abroad from this country, and when I return from abroad?

Permanent residents of Greece who travel by land or air to foreign countries are required to fill in the electronic Passenger Locator Form with their contact details upon their return to Greece, and to show it at the border checkpoint.

All passengers must complete the electronic Passenger Locator Form before their departure to Greece.

In addition, all travellers aged 12 or older, regardless of the epidemiological situation of their country of departure, must hold proof of full vaccination, recovery or a negative test result.

May I transit this country?

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restrictions.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

May I fly to this country?

Non-EU citizens are strongly advised to choose direct flights to Greece. In any other case, travelers should abide by the stop-over country requirements.

Travellers can enter the country through all international airports and all ports. Please, consult entry requirements from EU and Schengen Associated countries or from non-EU and non-Schengen Associated countries, depending on your country of departure.

You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website. Information is also available on Aegean Air - travel information.

You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.

You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website.

You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.

General measures

Important: in Greece, the 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access some public spaces, including catering establishments, indoor venues and touristic attractions.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming the holder's identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Only accepted in some cases: negative test result.

Please, consult the sections below for details.

Find out more
National Public Health Organization - advice for travellers

Use of facemasks

It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all indoor spaces and public transport means. The use of facemask is recommended in crowded outdoor areas.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events

Live events (theatre or dance performances, concerts etc.) are held in open-air venues with seated guests only and at 65% - 75% capacity, depending on the size of each venue. Indoor venues (up to 85% capacity) admit visitors with a vaccination certificate, or with a Covid-19 infection medical certificate issued not sooner than 30 days after testing positive. Spectators have to purchase an e-ticket, wear a face mask, and respect the health and safety guidelines.

Safety measures for public transportation

Passengers of public transportation and taxi passengers are obliged to wear a face mask. This includes passengers of ferries, dayboats and sea taxis. Taxis are allowed to carry up to three (3) passengers in addition to the driver, except when carrying family members.

Places of worship

Open with limitations

Places of worship are open under specific hygiene protocols. The obligation to use a mask is imposed, as part of the emergency measures. 

Quarantine

In case of close contact with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case, it is necessary to monitor your health for the 14 days following the last contact. It is advisable to communicate regularly (daily) with a health professional for the entire duration of the monitoring period. Furthermore, it is required to: 

• stay in a ventilated room;
• limit the number of those who care for the person, ideally, it should be a person who does not belong to a high-risk group;
• avoid any visit;
• accommodate the other family members in a different room and if this is not possible, keep a distance of at least two metres;
• limit the person's movements at home as much as possible;
• maintain good ventilation of common areas;
• observe a good hand washing;
• always cover mouth and nose during coughing or sneezing;
• avoid any contact with potentially contaminated objects;
• daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and objects in the patient's room.

If the person develops some respiratory symptoms (such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficult breathing), it is advisable to call the doctor or the EODY (tel: 1135, 210 5212 054), in order to receive specific instructions.

Upon arrival in Greece, travellers may be randomly selected (“EVA” sampling system) for a mandatory RAPID antigen test. Following the sampling test, mandatory isolation is required for travellers testing positive for SARS-Cov-2. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis and stay in isolation for a maximum of 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Find out more: 

Instructions for ending isolation and quarantine (in Greek)

Covid-19 case and Covid-19 contact: some definitions (in Greek)

Non-essential (other than medicine and food) shops

Open

Tourist accommodations

Open with limitations

Tourist accommodation establishment managers are required to create an action plan, to have a health protocol in place for each part of the establishment and be ready to deal with a potential COVID-19 case, in accordance with the current guidelines of the National Public Health Organisation (e.g., hotel quarantine area).

Catering establishments

Open with limitations

Restaurants, cafes, bars and nightclubs are open for seated customers only.

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access restaurants, cafes, nightclubs, late-night bars, pubs.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Only accepted outdoors: negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Maximum 10 people can sit at each table, both indoors and outdoors.
• Outdoors, 2 customers can sit at the counter, keeping a 1.5m distance from other customers.
• The use of facemasks is mandatory for customers waiting for a table, and strongly recommended for those already seated.

Cinemas, museums and indoor attractions

Open with limitations

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access archaeological sites, museums and monuments in indoors spaces, cinemas, theatres, concerts, live performances, etc.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Wearing facemasks and respecting distancing measures is required.
• In archaeological sites, up to 20 visitors can enter in troups. This limit does not apply to families and to groups following a tour guide, which may include up to 40 individuals.
• Cinemas, theatres and live events venues operate at 50% capacity (for a mixed audience) or at 75% capacity (for an immunised audience). Electronic tickets must be issued.

Personal care services

Open with limitations

Different restrictions apply in "red" and "yellow" areas (find out more at covid19.gov.gr/covid-map)

Outdoors areas and beaches

Open

The 'EU Digital COVID Certificate' (EUDCC) or an equivalent document is required to access archaeological sites, open-air cinemas and live event venues.

Certificates must be accompanied by documents confirming identity, and contain one of the following:

• Proof of full vaccination
• Proof of recovery, valid for 6 months after the first positive test
• Negative test result to a molecular (PCR) test, valid 72 hours, or to a rapid test, valid 48 hours.
  Children aged 4-17, both indoors and outdoors, can also provide a negative self-test, valid 24 hours (self-declaration downloadable at self-test.gov.gr).

In addition:

• Open air cinemas operate at 75% capacity for mixed areas (accommodating immunised and non-immunised spectators), and 100% capacity in areas accommodating only immunised spectators.
• Live events in open spaces can only accommodate seated spectators, at 65% capacity (for mixed audiences) and at 100% capacity (for immunised audiences).
• Beaches with amenities are open across Greece, provided that arrangements are made for the necessary distancing among visitors. With the exception of families, each umbrella can be used by 2 individuals only.

Health protocols for tourism services and tourists

The strict health safety protocols applied at the national level will be followed.
These protocols are available at: Safety protocols for tourism services

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

____________________________________________________

30.08.2021

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Passengers are allowed to enter the country through all international airports and the ports of Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu.

Travellers are allowed to enter from the land borders through the entry gates of Promachonas, Ormenio, Evzonoi, Nymfaia, Niki, Doirani, Kristallopigi, Kipi (limit of 1500 passengers per week), Kakavia, Kastanies (limit of 1500 passengers per week), Exohi, Mavromatio and Mertziani.

Cruising and yachting is allowed.

Before arrival:
Travellers must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) at any time before their departure to Greece, providing detailed information on their point of departure, the duration of previous stays in other countries, and the address of their stay while in Greece. In case of multiple stays, they are required to provide the address for the first 24 hours at least. One PLF should be submitted per family. More information on travel.gov.gr

Prior to departure, travellers aged 12 and older must also ensure that they carry an acceptable form of certification of their health condition. Acceptable documents include one of the following:

• The EU Digital Covid-19 Certificate or a Covid-19 Certificate from a third country, in either printed or electronic form, which includes information related to their vaccination, or the result of their PCR or rapid test taken before travelling, or the details about their Covid-19 infection.
• A negative COVID-19 test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry in Greece. 
• A negative antigen (rapid) result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 48hours before entry.
• A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.
• A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.
• Proof that the traveller was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates etc.) in Greek, English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian. The person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document.

Travellers arriving from the Russian Federation, whether vaccinated or not, must show a negative result to a molecular PCR test or a rapid (antigen) test, and they will also be subject to new testing upon arrival.

Minors aged 12-17 can present any test, including a negative self-test certificate done 24 hours prior to travelling by stating their self-test result using the following platform: self-testing.gov.gr.

Important notice: Upon arrival, randomly selected travellers may be requested to undergo a mandatory RAPID antigen test at the entrance gates, drawn from the “EVA” sampling system. Following the sampling test, mandatory isolation is required for travellers testing positive for SARS-Cov-2. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis, and stay in isolation for a maximum of 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate

Holders of "EU Digital COVID certificates" (EUDCC) can enter Greece without being subject to further restrictions (testing or quarantine), at the condition that their certificate contains either:

• Proof of full vaccination.
  The vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the second dose of vaccine (for Johnson&Johnson, the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been taken).

Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

• Proof of recovery from COVID-19 (valid for 9 months from the 20th day after the first positive result).
• Negative result to a COVID-19 test.
  PCR tests (taken within 72 hours prior to arrival) and Rapid Antigen tests (taken within 48 hours prior to arrival) are both accepted.

Children under 12 years old are exempted from this requirement.

Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements

All travellers aged 12 and older arriving in Greece are required to have one of the following: 

• A negative COVID-19 test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry in Greece.
• A negative antigen (rapid) test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 48 hours before entry.
• This test is mandatory for all non-EU DCC holders (including children over the age of 12), regardless of the epidemiological situation in the country of departure.
• A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.
• A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.
• Proof that the traveller was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

Proof of a negative COVID-19 test is not required for all travellers that have completed their vaccination (i.e., 14 days have elapsed since the last vaccination, depending on the doses required) and hold a vaccination certificate.

Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

Proof of a negative COVID-19 test is also not required if the traveller was tested positive and at least 20 days have elapsed since the first positive result. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory, or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The validity of this certificate is 9 months.

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Residents of EU Member States and Schengen associated countries (Andorra, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, San Marino, Vatican, the Principality of Monaco), the USA, the UK, Serbia, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the Russian Federation, Israel, Canada, North Macedonia, Ukraine, China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Belarus, Bahrain, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Japan, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Jordan, Moldova, Brunei, Kosovo and Turkey may visit Greece for pleasure, provided they can fulfill the general entry requirements.

Incoming travellers who are residents of the Russian Federation, whether vaccinated or not, must show a negative result to a molecular PCR test or a rapid (antigen) test, and they will also be subject to new testing upon arrival.

Air travellers arriving from Egypt, Albania, Argentina, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Brazil, Georgia, Cuba, the United Arab Emirates, India, China, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, and Turkey - irrespective of their citizenship - will have to take a test upon arrival at the airport. If the rapid test result is positive, then the passenger will have to take a molecular PCR test to confirm the result. This procedure does not apply to passengers who are vaccinated or have recovered from a Covid-19 infection (except for Russian residents, as above).

Other third-country citizens are not allowed to enter Greece for non-essential reasons.

This restriction applies until 3 September 2021, 06.00 AM.

Important notice: Upon arrival, randomly selected travellers may be requested to undergo a mandatory RAPID antigen test at the entrance gates, drawn from the “EVA” sampling system. Following the sampling test, mandatory isolation is required for travellers testing positive for SARS-Cov-2. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis, and stay in isolation for a maximum of 10 days. Passengers, who have been fully vaccinated and the rapid test they take upon arrival is positive, will have to self-isolate for seven (7) days. In both cases, self-isolated travellers will have to show a negative result to a molecular PCR test on the last day of their quarantine, in order for the quarantine to be lifted. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

May I transit this country?

Yes

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

May I fly to this country?

Residents of EU Member States and Schengen associated countries (Andorra, Iceland, Lichtenstein, Norway, Switzerland, San Marino, Vatican, the Principality of Monaco), the USA, the UK, Serbia, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the Russian Federation, Israel, Canada, North Macedonia, Ukraine, China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Belarus, Bahrain, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Japan, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Jordan, Moldova, Brunei, Kosovo and Turkey may visit Greece for pleasure, provided they can fulfill the general entry requirements.

Incoming travellers who are residents of the Russian Federation, whether vaccinated or not, must show a negative result to a molecular PCR test or a rapid (antigen) test, and they will also be subject to new testing upon arrival.

Air travellers arriving from Egypt, Albania, Argentina, North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Brazil, Georgia, Cuba, the United Arab Emirates, India, China, Libya, Morocco, Pakistan, the Russian Federation, and Turkey - irrespective of their citizenship - will have to take a test upon arrival at the airport. If the rapid test result is positive, then the passenger will have to take a molecular PCR test to confirm the result. This procedure does not apply to passengers who are vaccinated or have recovered from a Covid-19 infection (except for Russian residents, as above).

Other third-country citizens are not allowed to enter Greece for non-essential reasons.

You can find the latest information on air travel regulations for this country on the IATA website.

You can also find information about air passenger rights on our portal for citizens.

General measures

Use of facemasks

It is mandatory to wear a facemask in all indoor spaces and public transport means. The use of facemask is recommended in crowded outdoor areas.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events

Live events (theatre or dance performances, concerts etc.) are held in open-air venues with seated guests only and at 65% - 75% capacity, depending on the size of each venue. Indoor venues (up to 85% capacity) admit visitors with a vaccination certificate, or with a Covid-19 infection medical certificate issued not sooner than 30 days after testing positive. Spectators have to purchase an e-ticket, wear a face mask, and respect the health and safety guidelines.

Safety measures for public transportation

Passengers of public transportation and taxi passengers are obliged to wear a face mask. This includes passengers of ferries, dayboats and sea taxis. Taxis are allowed to carry up to three (3) passengers in addition to the driver, except when carrying family members.

Places of worship

Open with limitations

Places of worship are open under specific hygiene protocols. The obligation to use a mask is imposed, as part of the emergency measures. 

Quarantine

In case of close contact with a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 case, it is necessary to monitor your health for the 14 days following the last contact. It is advisable to communicate regularly (daily) with a health professional for the entire duration of the monitoring period. Furthermore, it is required to: 

• stay in a ventilated room;
• limit the number of those who care for the person, ideally, it should be a person who does not belong to a high-risk group;
• avoid any visit;
• accommodate the other family members in a different room and if this is not possible, keep a distance of at least two metres;
• limit the person's movements at home as much as possible;
• maintain good ventilation of common areas;
• observe a good hand washing;
• always cover mouth and nose during coughing or sneezing;
• avoid any contact with potentially contaminated objects;
• daily cleaning and disinfection of surfaces and objects in the patient's room.

If the person develops some respiratory symptoms (such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficult breathing), it is advisable to call the doctor or the EODY (tel: 1135, 210 5212 054), in order to receive specific instructions.

Upon arrival in Greece, travellers may be randomly selected (“EVA” sampling system) for a mandatory RAPID antigen test. Following the sampling test, mandatory isolation is required for travellers testing positive for SARS-Cov-2. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis and stay in isolation for a maximum of 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Find out more: 

Instructions for ending isolation and quarantine (in Greek)

Covid-19 case and Covid-19 contact: some definitions (in Greek)

Non-essential (other than medicine and food) shops

Open

Tourist accommodations

Open

Tourist accommodation establishment managers are required to create an action plan, to have a health protocol in place for each part of the establishment and be ready to deal with a potential Covid-19 case, in accordance with the current guidelines of the National Public Health Organisation (e.g., hotel quarantine area).

Catering establishments

Open with limitations

Restaurants, cafés, bars, and nightclubs are open for seated customers ONLY.

Up to 10 individuals are allowed per table. Two customers seated on stools are allowed at the counter and a 1.5 m distance must be kept from the next two customers.

Restaurant and café indoor spaces as well as indoor and outdoor areas of nightclubs, late-night bars, pubs, and boîtes admit customers who show a Covid-19 vaccination certificate or a medical document as proof of their Covid-19 infection and recovery. Minors upon their entrance must show any of the above-mentioned tests or a negative self-test certificate done 24 hours earlier, by simply stating their self-test result on the following pdf (download here: https://self-testing.gov.gr/covid19-self-test-print.pdf).

The use of masks is mandatory for customers waiting for a table, and strongly recommended for those already seated.

Cinemas, museums and indoor attractions

Open with limitations

Archaeological sites are open. Up to 20 visitors can enter in groups (this limit does not apply to families). Groups following a tour guide may include up to 40 individuals, on the condition that, before entering, they show a vaccination certificate, or a medical document as proof of a past Covid-19 infection, issued not sooner than thirty (30) days after the positive test result, or a negative rapid test taken within 48 hours. This restriction applies to visitors aged twelve and older. Wearing a face mask and practicing physical distancing is obligatory during the visit.

Indoor exhibitions in monuments and museums welcome their visitors in accordance with the health protocols in place (physical distancing, wearing a face mask, etc). Up to 10 individuals may visit in groups (except for larger families). Groups following a guide may include up to 20 individuals, on the condition that, before entering, they show a vaccination certificate, or a medical document as proof of a past Covid-19 infection, issued not sooner than thirty (30) days after the positive test result, or a negative rapid test taken within 48 hours. This restriction applies to visitors aged twelve and older.

Open-air cinemas are allowed to operate at 75% capacity, as per the health and safety instructions. Indoor cinemas operate at 85% capacity. Viewers will have to buy an e-ticket, wear a face mask, and follow the health and safety guidelines. They will also have to show either a vaccination certificate, or a Covid-19 medical document issued not sooner than 30 days after they tested positive, before entering.

These restrictions apply to visitors aged twelve (12) or older. Whenever a vaccination, recovery or infection certificate is needed to enter in a venue or participate in an event, minors aged 12-17 can instead provide a self-test certificate done 24 hours earlier, by simply stating their self-test result on the following pdf (download here: https://self-testing.gov.gr/covid19-self-test-print.pdf).

Personal care services

Open with limitations

Different restrictions apply in "red" and "yellow" areas (find out more at covid19.gov.gr/covid-map)

Outdoors areas and beaches

Open

Beaches with amenities are open across Greece, provided that arrangements are made for the necessary distancing among visitors. With the exception of families, each umbrella may be used by two individuals only.

Health protocols for tourism services and tourists

The strict health safety protocols applied at the national level will be followed.
These protocols are available at: Safety protocols for tourism services

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

______________________________________________________________________________

22.07.2021

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Passengers are allowed to enter the country through all international airports and the ports of Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu.

Travellers are allowed to enter from the land borders through the entry gates of Promachonas, Ormenio, Evzonoi, Nymfaia, Niki, Doirani, Kristallopigi, Kipi, Kakavia, Kastanies and Exohi, Mavromatio and Mertziani.

Cruising and yachting is allowed. Maritime connections with Turkey are temporarily restricted.

Before arrival:
Tourists must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) no later than 23:59 (11.59 PM) of the day before arriving in Greece, providing detailed information on their point of departure, the duration of previous stays in other countries, and the address of their stay while in Greece. In case of multiple stays, they are required to provide the address for the first 24 hours at least. One PLF should be submitted per family. More information on travel.gov.gr

Prior to departure, all travelers must ensure that they carry an acceptable form of certification of their health condition. Acceptable documents include either:

• A negative COVID-19 test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry in Greece 
• A negative antigen (rapid) result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 48hours before entry.
• A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.
• A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.
• Proof that the traveller was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

All certificates must include critical information (number of doses, dates etc.) in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian. The person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document.

Travellers arriving from the Russian Federation, whether vaccinated or not, must show a negative result to a molecular PCR test or a rapid (antigen) test, and they will also be subject to new testing upon arrival.

Upon arrival, travellers are subject to:

• Sampling RAPID antigen tests at the entrance gates for selected individuals drawn from a targeted sampling system, based on the ”EVA” system.
• Mandatory isolation if they test positive for SARS-Cov-2, following a sampling test. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis. Guests will stay in seclusion hotels for at least 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate

Holders of "EU Digital COVID certificates" (EUDCC) can enter Greece without being subject to further restrictions (testing or quarantine), at the condition that their certificate contains either:

• Proof of full vaccination.
  The vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the second dose of vaccine (for Johnson&Johnson, the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been taken).
  

  Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

• Proof of recovery from COVID-19 (valid for 9 months from the 20th day after the first positive result).

• Negative result to a COVID-19 test.
  PCR tests (taken within 72 hours prior to arrival) and Rapid Antigen tests (taken within 48 hours prior to arrival) are both accepted.

Children under 12 years old are exempted from the testing or quarantine requirement.

All passengers aged 12 and older must carry any one of the above documents.

Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements

Travellers arriving in Greece are required to have: 

• A negative COVID-19 test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry in Greece.
• A negative antigen (rapid) test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 48 hours before entry.
• This test is mandatory for all non-EU DCC holders (including children over the age of 12), regardless of the epidemiological situation in the country of departure.
• A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.
• A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.
• Proof that the traveller was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

Proof of a negative COVID-19 test is not required for all travellers that have completed their vaccination (i.e., 14 days have elapsed since the last vaccination, depending on the doses required) and hold a vaccination certificate.

Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

Proof of a negative COVID-19 test is also not required if the traveller was tested positive and at least 20 days have elapsed since the first positive result. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory, or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The validity of this certificate is 9 months.

All passengers aged 12 and older must carry any one of the above documents.

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!
Travel.gov.gr

Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Residents of EU Member States and Schengen associated countries, the U.S.A., the U.K., Serbia, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Thailand, Rwanda, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates, the Russian Federation, Israel, Canada, North Macedonia, Ukraine, China, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Belarus, Bahrain, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, Japan, Lebanon, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Jordan, Moldova, Brunei, and Kosovo may visit Greece for pleasure, provided they can fullfill the general entry requirements.

Other third-country citizens are not allowed to enter Greece for non-essential reasons.

This restriction applies until 22 July 2021, 06.00 AM.

May I transit this country?

Yes

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

General measures

Use of facemasks

The use of face masks is mandatory both indoors and outdoors.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Indoor and outdoor meetings, public or private gatherings and events

Live events (theatre or dance performances, concerts etc.) are held in open-air venues with seated guests only and at 65% - 75% capacity, depending on the size of each venue. Indoor venues (up to 85% capacity) admit visitors with a vaccination certificate, or with a Covid-19 infection medical certificate issued not sooner than 30 days after testing positive. Spectators have to purchase an e-ticket, wear a face mask, and respect the health and safety guidelines.

Information on Tourism at National level

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

Useful Info for tourists

Before starting your journey, please check visa requirements for your destination at: The Schengen visa

EU Digital COVID Certificates

This country is already connected to the Gateway and is issuing and/or verifying at least one EU Digital COVID Certificate (Vaccination, Recovery, Test)

Information on "EU Digital COVID Certificates" issued in Greece

_________

The EU Digital COVID Certificate Regulation entered into force on 01 July 2021. EU citizens and residents will now be able to have their Digital COVID Certificates issued and verified across the EU. National authorities are in charge of issuing the certificate. 

The certificate provides a standardised recognition of the holder's status related to vaccination, recovery from Covid-19, or test result. Despite the European Digital COVID Certificate, each country continues to be responsible for the definition of its own entry requirements and rules, which are not standardised at the EU level. This means that what is required to enter upon presentation of this certificate, depends on the measures and entry rules in place at your destination. 

Find out more: 

Information on the "EU Digital COVID Certificate" 

Press Release 

Questions & Answers 

Factsheet 

Further information: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/GRC/7001

_________________________________________________________________________________________________

17.06.2021

What are the rules to enter this country from an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Entering this country with the EU Digital COVID certificate

As of 1 June 2021, Greece is issuing "EU Digital COVID certificates" (DCC) and can verify DCCs issued by other countries. Citizens of the EU are therefore allowed to enter the country using the EU Digital COVID Certificate (DCC).

Holders of "EU Digital COVID certificates" can enter Greece without being subject to further restrictions (testing or quarantine), at the condition that their certificate contains either:

• Proof of full vaccination. The vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the second dose of vaccine (for Johnson&Johnson, the vaccination is considered completed 14 days after the single dose has been taken).
  

  Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

• Proof of recovery from COVID-19 (valid for 9 months from the 20th day after the first positive result).

• Negative result to a COVID-19 test. Only PCR tests are accepted. The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to departure.

Children under 6 years old are exempted from the testing or quarantine requirement.

Entering this country without the EU Digital COVID certificate or with a certificate not compliant with national requirements

As of 14 May, travellers arriving in Greece are required to have a negative PCR certificate from a testing laboratory, for a Covid-19 test taken no later than 72 hours before arrival.
This test is mandatory for all non-DCC holders (including children over the age of 6), regardless of the epidemiological situation in the country of departure.

Proof of a negative PCR test is not required for all travellers that have completed their vaccination (i.e., 14 days have elapsed since the last vaccination, depending on the doses required) and hold a vaccination certificate.

Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

Proof of a negative PCR test is also not required if the traveller was tested positive and at least 20 days have elapsed since the first positive result. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory, or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The validity of this certificate is 9 months.

Every traveller who arrives in Greece, regardless of the certificate in their possession, may undergo a random health screening. If you are selected, please keep in mind that the screening is mandatory. In case of refusal, authorities reserve the right to refuse entry into the country. The selection is made through a targeted sampling system, called ”EVA”, used also in summer 2020.

Passengers are allowed to enter the country through all international airports and the ports of Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu.

Travellers are allowed to enter from the land borders through the entry gates of Promachonas and Ormenio in a 24h basis and Evzonoi and Nymfaia from 07:00 to 23:00.

Cruising and yachting is allowed. Maritime connections with Albania and Turkey are temporarily restricted.

Requirements for Visitors

Before arrival:
Tourists must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) no later than 23:59 of the day before arriving in Greece, providing detailed information on their point of departure, the duration of previous stays in other countries, and the address of their stay while in Greece. In case of multiple stays, they are required to provide the address for the first 24 hours at least. One PLF should be submitted per family.

• Travelers will receive a confirmation email upon submission of the PLF.
• Travelers will receive the PLF with their unique Quick Response (QR) code on the day of their scheduled arrival in Greece and will be notified via email (the QR code will be provided in a link in the confirmation email).
• Travelers boarding or embarking on the previous day of the arrival will be allowed to do so upon showing the confirmation email, since they will receive their QR code during their flight or voyage.

The PLF can also be found on the Visit Greece app and at travel.gov.gr. It is strongly recommended that all visitors download the Visit Greece app (GDPR compliant) for free, prior their arrival in Greece.

Prior to departure, all travelers must ensure that they carry an acceptable form of certification of their health condition. Acceptable documents include:

• A DCC.
• A negative PCR molecular test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry in Greece.
• A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.
• A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.
• Proof that the traveler was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

All certificates must include the critical information in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian. The person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document.

Upon arrival, travellers are subject to:

• Sampling RAPID antigen tests at the entrance gates for selected individuals drawn from a targeted sampling system, based on the ”EVA” system.
• Mandatory isolation if they test positive for SARS-Cov-2, following a sampling test. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis. Guests will stay in seclusion hotels for at least 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!

Documents you need to travel in Europe
Health cover for temporary stays

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

The third countries from which entry is allowed, under the conditions explained below and without the requirement for subsequent self-isolation are: USA, UK, Israel, Serbia, UAE, New Zealand, Australia, South Korea, Thailand, Rwanda, Singapore, the Russian Federation, North Macedonia, Canada, Belarus, Bahrein, Qatar, China, Kuwait, Ukraine, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Saudi Arabia.

Non-EU citizens are strongly advised to choose direct flights to Greece. In any other case, travellers should abide by the stop-over country requirements.
Passengers are allowed to enter the country through all international airports and the ports of Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu.

All travellers (including children over the age of 6), regardless of the epidemiological situation in their country of departure, are required to have a negative PCR certificate for a Covid-19 test taken no later than 72 hours before arrival.

Proof of a negative PCR test is not required for travellers that have completed their vaccination (i.e., 14 days have elapsed since the last vaccination, depending on the doses required) and hold a vaccination certificate.

Accepted vaccines are: Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.

Proof of a negative PCR test is also not required if the traveller was tested positive and at least 20 days have elapsed since the first positive result. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory, or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection. The validity of this certificate is 9 months.

Every traveller who arrives in Greece, regardless of the certificate in their possession, may undergo a random health screening. If you are selected, please keep in mind that the screening is mandatory. In case of refusal, authorities reserve the right to refuse entry into the country. The selection is made through a targeted sampling system, called ”EVA”, used also in summer 2020.

Requirements for Visitors

Before arrival:
Tourists must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) no later than 23:59 of the day before arriving in Greece, providing detailed information on their point of departure, the duration of previous stays in other countries, and the address of their stay while in Greece. In case of multiple stays, they are required to provide the address for the first 24 hours at least. One PLF should be submitted per family.

• Travelers will receive a confirmation email upon submission of the PLF.
• Travelers will receive the PLF with their unique Quick Response (QR) code on the day of their scheduled arrival in Greece and will be notified via email (the QR code will be provided in a link in the confirmation email).
• Travelers boarding or embarking on the previous day of the arrival will be allowed to do so upon showing the confirmation email, since they will receive their QR code during their flight or voyage.

The PLF can also be found on the Visit Greece app and at travel.gov.gr
It is strongly recommended that all visitors download the Visit Greece app (GDPR compliant) for free, prior their arrival in Greece.

Prior to departure, all travelers must ensure that they carry an acceptable form of certification of their health condition. Acceptable documents include:

• A negative PCR molecular test result from a laboratory; the test must be taken up to 72 hours before entry in Greece.
• A vaccination certificate issued by a certified authority.
• A certificate of recovery from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection issued by a public authority or a certified laboratory.
• Proof that the traveler was tested positive with COVID-19 in the past 2 to 9 months. This can be proved either by presenting a positive PCR molecular or an antigen test result performed by an authorized laboratory or a medical certificate confirming that the holder was tested positive with SARS-CoV-2 virus infection.

All certificates must include the critical information in English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian. The person’s full name must match the name on the passport or any other recognised travel document.

Upon arrival, travellers are subject to:

• Sampling RAPID antigen tests at the entrance gates for selected individuals drawn from a targeted sampling system, based on the ”EVA” system.
• Mandatory isolation if they test positive for SARS-Cov-2, following a sampling test. In this case, the travellers and their travel companions are accommodated in quarantine hotels, where they will undergo further PCR testing to confirm the initial diagnosis. Guests will stay in seclusion hotels for at least 10 days. The expenses of the accommodation in quarantine hotels are covered by the Greek state.

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!

May I transit this country?

YES

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

General measures

Use of facemasks

The use of face masks is mandatory both indoors and outdoors.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Safety measures for public transportation

Public transportation and taxi passengers are obliged to wear a face mask. This includes passengers of ferries, dayboats and sea taxis.

Information on Tourism at National level

National website with coronavirus-related information for TOURISM

Visit Greece

EU Digital COVID Certificates

THIS COUNTRY IS ALREADY CONNECTED TO THE GATEWAY AND IS ISSUING AND/OR VERIFYING AT LEAST ONE EU DIGITAL COVID CERTIFICATE (VACCINATION, RECOVERY, TEST)

Information on "EU Digital COVID Certificates" issued in Greece

_________

The EU Digital COVID Certificate (available from 1 July 2021) provides proof that a person has either:

• been vaccinated against COVID-19 (vaccine type and manufacturer, number of doses, date of vaccination);
• received a negative test result, PCR or rapid antigen, with the name of the test, date and time of test, test centre and result (self-tests are not valid);
• recovered from COVID-19.

When travelling, holders of the EU Digital COVID Certificate will have the same rights as citizens of the visited Member State who have been vaccinated, tested or recovered.

The certificate provides a standardised recognition of the holder's status related to vaccination, recovery from COVID or test result. Each country continues to be responsible for the definition of its own entry requirements and rules, which are not standardised at the EU level. This means that what you will be eligible for, upon presentation of this certificate, depends on the measures and entry rules in place at your country of destination.

How does it work:

1. Member States issue a certificate automatically or upon request, which is issued either digitally or on paper, and has a QR code with an electronic signature;
2. Citizens store the certificate in their digital app or wallet and can use it when they travel;
3. When the verifier asks the citizen for the certificate, the QR code is shown and the digital signature is verified.

Find out more:
Information on the EU Digital COVID Certificate

Press Release
Questions & Answers
Factsheet

04.05.2021

From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?

NO

Greece adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Greece are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.

Land border arrivals are allowed through the Promachonas and Nymphaio border checkpoints. 

Arrivals by sea are prohibited. As of 23 April, blue cruising and yachting will be allowed with some restrictions.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.

The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.

Children aged 5 and under are exempted.

The certificate should be written in English and must include the name and passport number or national identification number of the traveller.

Upon their arrival, passengers will also be subject to random testing (rapid tests) as per the procedure described in the Passenger Locator Form. Those entering from Promachonas will also have to take a rapid test for Covid-19 at the entrance checkpoint.

People who have completed the vaccination within at least 14 days prior to their arrival and who are able to provide the vaccination certificate, are not required to provide a pre-departure negative PCR test.

Is a quarantine required?

In case of a positive test result, travellers will be quarantined for at least 10 days and additional PCR tests will be carried out at the beginning and end of the isolation period.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!
Travel.gov.gr
Arrangements for the smooth movement of coastal passengers during curfew hours

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Third-country citizens are not allowed to enter Greece. Exceptions apply to residents of the following countries:

• UK
• USA
• Australia
• New Zealand
• South Korea
• Thailand
• Rwanda
• Singapore
• United Arab Emirates
• Serbia
• Israel

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers who are allowed to enter are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.

The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.

Children aged 5 and under are exempted.

The certificate should be written in English and must include the name and passport number or national identification number of the traveller.

Upon their arrival, passengers will also be subject to random testing (rapid tests) as per the procedure described in the Passenger Locator Form. Those entering from Promachonas will also have to take a rapid test for Covid-19 at the entrance checkpoint.

People who have completed the vaccination within at least 14 days prior to their arrival and who are able to provide the vaccination certificate, are not required to provide a pre-departure negative PCR test.

Is a quarantine required?

In case of a positive test result, travellers will be quarantined for at least 10 days and additional PCR tests will be carried out at the beginning and end of the isolation period.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!
Travel.gov.gr
Arrangements for the smooth movement of coastal passengers during curfew hours

May I transit this country?

YES

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

General measures

A general nationwide lockdown is imposed. Citizens in need of going out for essential reasons will have to notify it and to provide specific certificates according to the reasons for their movement. There is also a ban on travelling outside home prefectures, except for essential reasons.

A curfew between 23:00 and 05:00 is in effect. In some regions, depending on epidemiological data, additional restrictions apply.

For additional information and for the necessary certificates, please visit www.forma.gov.gr (in Greek).

Authorities have divided the country into "red" and "yellow" areas (in "red" areas additional restrictions apply). This is reviewed on a weekly basis.

Find out more:
covid19.gov.gr/covid-map
Precautionary measures

Use of facemasks

The use of face masks is mandatory both indoors and outdoors.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/GRC/7001

31.03.2021

From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?

NO

Greece adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Greece are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.

Land border arrivals for non-essential reasons are allowed from Bulgaria through the Promachonas border checkpoint. Travelling from Albania, Turkey, and North Macedonia is allowed for essential reasons only.

Arrivals by sea are prohibited.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers are subject to the requirement for a pre-departure negative PCR test.

The test must be taken within 72 hours prior to arrival.

Children aged 10 and under are exempted.

The certificate should be written in English and must include the name and passport number or national identification number of the traveller.

Upon their arrival, passengers will also be subject to random testing (rapid tests) as per the procedure described in the Passenger Locator Form. Those entering from Promachonas will also have to take a rapid test for Covid-19 at the entrance checkpoint.

Is a quarantine required?

All travellers arriving in Greece from abroad must complete a 7-day quarantine. In case of a positive test result, they will be quarantined for 14 days.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!
Travel.gov.gr
Arrangements for the smooth movement of coastal passengers during curfew hours

Documents you need to travel in Europe

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

Third-country citizens are not allowed to enter Greece. Exceptions apply to residents of the following countries:

• United Kingdom
• Australia
• New Zealand
• South Korea
• Thailand
• United Arab Emirates
• Russian Federation
• Israel

Travelling from Albania, Turkey, and North Macedonia is allowed for essential reasons only.

Is a coronavirus test required?

All travellers arriving in Greece will have to show a negative molecular test (PCR) for COVID-19, taken up to 72 hours before their entry.

The certificate should be written in English and include the name and passport number or national identification number of the traveller.

Children under 10 years old are not subject to the obligation of a PCR test.

Upon their arrival, passengers will also be subject to random testing (rapid tests) as per the procedure described in the Passenger Locator Form. Those entering from Promachonas will also have to take a rapid test for Covid-19 at the entrance checkpoint.

Flights from the United Kingdom: all incoming passengers from the United Kingdom will have to take a rapid test upon arrival. They will additionally have to take a new PCR test, once their 7-day isolation period ends. If the outcome is negative, then the precautionary mandatory self-isolation will be lifted.

Flights from the United Arab Emirates: rapid testing is mandatory for all passengers upon arrival.

Flights from the Russian Federation: Russian residents (limited to 500 per week) are permitted to enter Greece at the airports of Athens, Thessaloniki,and Heraklion, Crete.

Is a quarantine required?

All travellers arriving in Greece from abroad must self-isolate for 7 days. In case of a positive test result, they will be quarantined for 14 days.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:
Destination Greece. Health first!
Travel.gov.gr
Arrangements for the smooth movement of coastal passengers during curfew hours

May I transit this country?

YES

As a general rule, passengers in transit in the EU+ area are exempted from temporary travel restriction.

EU citizens entering the EU from a third country, as well as their family members, irrespective of their nationality, are exempted from the travel restrictions regardless of whether or not they are returning to their country of nationality or residence.

Passengers travelling from a non-EU country to another non-EU country may transit through the international transit area of airports located in the Schengen area. Rules regarding airport transit visa requirements continue to apply.

General measures

A general nationwide lockdown is imposed. Citizens in need of going out for essential reasons will have to notify it and to provide specific certificates according to the reasons for their movement. Citizens must also carry identification. There is also a ban on travelling outside home prefectures, except for essential reasons.

Furthermore, a curfew is in place between 21:00 and 05:00. In some regions, depending on epidemiological data, additional restrictions apply (i.e. extended curfew).

For additional information and for the necessary certificates, please visit www.forma.gov.gr (in Greek).

Authorities have divided the country into "red" and "yellow" areas (in "red" areas additional restrictions apply). This is reviewed on a weekly basis.

Find out more:
covid19.gov.gr/covid-map

Precautionary measures

Health cover for temporary stays

Use of facemasks

The use of face masks is mandatory both indoors and outdoors.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/GRC/7001

25.01.2021

From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?

Partially

Note: Greece adopts its own national classification of risk areas, hence travel restrictions for Greece are not based on the common "EU Traffic Lights" map.

Entry from EU Member States and Schengen Associated Countries is allowed.

As of 11.11.2020, all people travelling to Greece from foreign countries will be required to show a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before their arrival. This includes arrivals by land and by air. 

The certificate should be written in English and include the name and passport number or national identification number of the traveller.

The accepted laboratories that perform the RT-PCR testing can be:

• National Reference laboratories
• National Public Health Laboratories
• Private laboratories which are accredited from the respective national accreditation authorities (not necessarily specifically for COVID-19).

Certificates that do not fulfil the above criteria will not be accepted.

Children under 10 years old are not subject to the obligation of a PCR test.

The same requirement will apply to all visitors entering Greece via its land borders, including citizens, permanent residents of Greece and travellers for essential professional reasons.

In the event of a positive result, travellers will be contacted and placed on a 14-days quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state. Otherwise, after a 7-days self-isolation, travellers may continue with their holidays, adhering to the general public health safety guidelines.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:
Travel.gov.gr

Documents you need to travel in Europe

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

The following 9 countries are exempted from the entry ban into Greece: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Uruguay, Singapore, China*, UAE**. As of 11.11.2020, all people travelling to Greece from foreign countries will be required to show a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before the entrance.

* Subject to confirmation of reciprocity.

** From 9.11.2020, permanent residents of the UAE may arrive only by direct flights. In order to enter the territory, they need to present to the air border control authorities the following documents: 

• proof of permanent residence in the UAE;
• return tickets and hotel reservations;
• health checks (PCR COVID-19 test taken 72h before departure);
• passenger Locator Form (PLF);
• travel insurance. 

Permanent residents of other third countries are allowed to travel to Greece only for essential reasons.

As of 21.12.2020, a 7-days quarantine applies to all travellers coming from the United Kingdom.

See also:
Commission adopts Recommendation on EU coordinated approach to travel and transport in response to a new variant of coronavirus in the UK (22 December 2020)

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:

Protocols for air arrivals in Greece

travel.gov.gr/#

May I transit this country?

Yes

May I enter this country by road transport?

Due to the epidemiological situation in the Balkans and Turkey, all the external land Greek borders are open only to essential travellers. Land border arrivals from Bulgaria are allowed through Promachonas border station.
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete their Passenger Locator Form.

Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece, transport workers and travellers for essential professional reasons can enter from the borders of Kakavia, Evzoni, Kipi (daily open only between 07:00 and 11:00). All travellers should have the PLF and QR code and additionally hold a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72h before their arrival.
Those entering from Kakavia Border Inspection Posts should additionally self-isolate for 7 days upon their arrival in Greece. There is a daily limit of 750 entries per day in Kakavia..

In the case of Greece-Albania borders, this also applies to Albanians citizens of Greek origin (Homogeny).

Employees of international land transport services, regardless of their nationality, must either transit or head to their destination and then undergo a 7-days isolation. There is an exception for members of international or European organizations, regardless of nationality, who may enter in order to work in Greece or transit through Greece, provided that they prove their function with appropriate documentation.

In the case of Greece-North Macedonia borders, there is an additional exception for EULEX staff and their family members that are allowed to enter for medical reasons in the Greek territory (Evzoni Border Inspection Posts).

All visitors from air, land or sea, will be subject to random tests upon arrival. Upon being tested, travellers move to their final destination. In the event of a positive result, they will be contacted and placed on 14-days quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state.

To know more:

Protocols for arrivals at land borders in Greece

May I enter this country by sea transport?

No

As of 09.11.2020, sea arrivals with private yachts, cruise ships, ferry ships and any other professional tourist ships, as well as the disembarkation of passengers from these boats, are prohibited.

Sea from/to connection with Turkey and Albania (with the exemption of cargo ships) is temporarily suspended. 

Arrangements for the smooth movement of coastal passengers during curfew hours

Ship passenger rights

General measures

From 07.11.2020 a general nationwide lockdown is imposed. Citizens in need of going out for essential reasons will have to notify it and to provide specific certificates according to the reasons for their movement. In order to move to/from workplaces, certificate A is required by filling out the form "Employee Traffic Certificate", while for the other kind of movements type B certificate is necessary. Every time citizens travel, they must also have their police ID or passport with them.

For additional information and for the necessary certificates, please visit www.forma.gov.gr (in Greek).

Furthermore, as of 13.11.2020, from 21:00 to 05:00, a curfew is in place, together with a ban on travelling outside home prefectures. Consequently, only essential movement is allowed (work, health, pet care).

Due to the increased epidemiological burden in the wider region of West Attica and specifically in the Municipalities of Aspropyrgos, Elefsina and Mausoleum, the Greek Government announced the tightening of the current lockdown, with a curfew from 18:00 to 05:00 in place. In these areas, the population is subject to rapid antigen tests, with special emphasis in the areas of Nea Zoi, Neoktista, Ano and Kato Fousa, Goritsa, Sofo of the Municipality of Aspropyrgos, but also in the wider area of Elefsina and Mandra. All the confirmed cases that do not require hospitalization, will be isolated in specific structures, especially if home isolation is not considered feasible.

Health cover for temporary stays

Use of facemasks

As of 3 November 2020, the use of face masks is mandatory both indoors and outdoors.

Physical Distancing

Citizens are encouraged to apply physical distance rules everywhere. Special social distancing rules have been set for a wide range of places, such as hospitals, medical centres, restaurants, cafés, offices, schools, universities, supermarkets, shopping malls, public transportation vehicles and stations, small shops, barbershops, places of worship, lifts, etc.

Precautionary measures may be subject to variations according to the epidemiological level of the different Regional Units.

Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/GRC/6001

14.12.2020

From an EU Member State or Schengen Associated Country, may I enter this country without being subject to extraordinary restrictions?

Partially

Entry Restrictions

Entry from EU Member States + Schengen Associated countries is allowed. As of 11.11.2020, all people traveling to Greece from foreign countries will be required to have a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before their arrival. This includes air and land arrivals.

The certificate should be written in English and include name and passport number or national identification number of the traveller.

The accepted laboratories that perform the RT-PCR testing can be:

• National Reference laboratories
• National Public Health Laboratories
• Private laboratories which are accredited from the respective national accreditation authorities (not necessarily specifically for COVID-19).

Certificates that do not fulfill the above criteria will not be accepted.

Children under 10 years old are not subject to the obligation of a PCR test.

The same requirement will apply to all visitors entering Greece via its land borders. This applies to all travellers including Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece and travellers for essential professional reasons.

In the event of a positive result, travellers will be contacted and placed on a 14-days quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state.

Mandatory Travel Documentation

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

May I transit this country?

Yes

What are the rules to enter this country from outside an EU Member State or Schengen Associated country?

The following 9 countries are exempted from the entry ban into Greece: Australia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Uruguay, Singapore, China*, UAE**. As of 11.11.2020, all people traveling to Greece from foreign countries will be required to have a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before the entrance.

* Subject to confirmation of reciprocity.

** From 9.11.2020, permanent residents of the UAE may arrive only by direct flights. In order to enter the territory, they need to present to the air border control authorities the following documents: 

• proof of permanent residence in the UAE;
• return tickets and hotel reservations;
• health checks (PCR COVID-19 test taken 72h before departure);
• passenger Locator Form (PLF);
• travel insurance. 

Permanent residents of other third countries are allowed to travel to Greece only for essential reasons.

Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

May I enter this country by road?

Due to the epidemiological situation in the Balkans and Turkey, all the external land Greek borders are open only to essential travellers until 30.11.2020. Land border arrivals from Bulgaria are allowed through Promachonas border station.
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete their Passenger Locator Form.

Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece, transport workers and travelers for essential professional reasons can enter from the borders of Kakavia, Krystallopigi, Evzoni, Nymfeas, Kipi (daily open only 07.00am-11.00am). All travellers should have the PLF and QR code and additionally hold a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken no more than 72h before their arrival.
Those entering from Kakavia and Krystallopigi Border Inspection Posts  should additionally self-isolate for 7 days upon their arrival in Greece. There is a daily limit of 750 entries per day in Kakavia and 300 entries per day in Krystallopigi.

In the case of Greece-Albania borders, this also applies to Albanians citizens of Greek origin (Homogeny).

Employees of international land transport services, regardless of their nationality, must either transit or head to their destination and then undergo a 7-days isolation. There is an exception for members of international or European organizations, regardless of nationality, who enter in order to work in Greece or transit through Greece, provided that they prove their function with appropriate documentation.

In the case of Greece-North Macedonia borders, there is an additional exception for EULEX staff and their family members that it are allowed to enter for medical reasons in Greek territory (Evzoni Border Inspection Posts).

May I enter this country by sea transport?

No

As of 09.11.2020, sea arrivals with private yachts, cruise ships, ferry ships and any other professional tourist ships, as well as the disembarkation of passengers from these boats, are prohibited.

Until 30.11.2020, there is no sea from/to connection with Turkey and Albania (with the exemption of cargo ships). 

Arrangements for the smooth movement of coastal passengers during curfew hours

Ship passenger rights

Find out more:

Protocols for arrivals at land borders in Greece

travel.gov.gr

Find out more:

Protocols for air arrivals in Greece

travel.gov.gr/#

Find out more:

Travel.gov.gr

Documents you need to travel in Europe

17.09.2020

Land border arrivals from Bulgaria are allowed through Promachonas border station. Entry from other border stations with Bulgaria are allowed for essential travel only. With regards to Albania, North Macedonia and Turkey, entry is allowed for essential travel only.
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete their Passenger Locator Form.

All travellers entering Greece through Promachonas border station, including Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece and travellers for essential professional reasons, are obliged to present, upon arrival, a negative molecular test result (RT-PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before their entry to Greece. Travellers should be laboratory tested with RT-PCR of oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab.
For the land border crossings of Kakavia, Krystallopigi, Evzoni, Nymfaia, Ormeni and Kipi, if the conditions are met, the crossing is possible only between 07:00-23:00. Only essential arrivals are permitted. Moreover, land border from Kakavia now limits essential arrivals to 750 persons/day and Krystallopigi limits essential arrivals to 300 persons/day.

Protocols for arrivals at land borders in Greece

For latest information also check travel.gov.gr
Driving abroad

Travelling to Greece
Entry from EU countries and from Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, as well as Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City State and Republic of San Marino, is allowed without restrictions, with the exception of Belgium, Bulgaria, Hungary, Malta, Romania, and Spain (details under "Rules and Exceptions").

Third-country nationals:

Travellers from Australia, Canada, Georgia, Japan, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay and China (subject to confirmation of reciprocity) are allowed to enter Greece without restrictions. Furthermore, as far as visitors from Russia are concerned, upon arrival they have to perform a negative rt-PCR test certificate in English and the hotel reservation, or any other proved address of their temporary stay in Greece.
Permanent residents of other third countries are allowed to travel to Greece only for essential reasons (not for tourism).
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Protocols for air arrivals in Greece

For latest information also check travel.gov.gr/#

Travelling from Greece or returning to Greece
No specific measures.

Rules and Exceptions

Arrivals by airplane : Passengers of flights from Bulgaria, Romania, U.A.E., Malta, Belgium, Hungary, Spain, Albania and the Republic of North Macedonia will be required to have a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before their entry to Greece. This does also apply to Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece and travellers for essential professional reasons. Travellers should be tested with RT-PCR of oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab.

Only travellers who carry a certificate of a negative RT-PCR test result will be allowed by the border authorities to enter the country. The certificates should be written in English and bear the name and passport/national ID number of the traveller.

The accepted laboratories that perform the RT-PCR testing can be:
- National Reference laboratories
- National Public Health Laboratories
- Private laboratories which are accredited from the respective national accreditation authorities (not necessarily specifically for COVID-19).

Certificates that do not fulfill the above criteria will not be accepted.

Children under 10 years old are not subject to the obligation to a PCR test.

The same requirement will apply to all visitors entering Greece via its land borders. This applies to ALL travellers including Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece and travellers for essential professional reasons. 

In addition to this, all visitors arriving by air, land or sea transport will be subject to random tests upon arrival. After being tested, travellers will be allowed to move to their final destination. In the event of a positive result, they will be contacted and placed on 14-day quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state.

Mandatory Travel Documentation
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Find out more:
Travel.gov.gr
Air passenger rights.

Updated info on air travel regulations may be found at the IATA website

Arrivals by sea by ferry ships are allowed only in Patras, Corfu and Igoumenitsa ports, while arrivals of cruise ships in Greece are allowed until 15/09/2020, provided that they come from countries for which no special restrictive measures apply.
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete their Passenger Locator Form
A confirmation email will be sent upon its submission. An electronic or hard copy of the PLF confirmation should be presented to the designated crew members before embarkation onboard a ship at any Italian port. Travellers will also receive the PLF with a QR code on the day of their scheduled arrival in Greece (at midnight) and will be notified via email (the QR code will be provided in a link in the confirmation email).
No such restriction applies on yachting.
All visitors from air, land or sea, will be subject to random tests upon arrival. Upon being tested, travelers move to their final destination. In the event of a positive result, they will be contacted and placed on 14-day quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state.

Protocols for sea arrivals in Greece

For latest information also check travel.gov.gr/#
Ship passenger rights

14.08.2020

Land border arrivals from Bulgaria are allowed through Promachonas border station. Entry from other border stations with Bulgaria are allowed for essential travel only. With regards to Albania, North Macedonia and Turkey, entry is allowed for essential travel only.
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete their Passenger Locator Form

As of 15/07/2020 at 06:00 am (GMT+3), all travellers entering Greece for non-essential reasons through Promachonas border station are obliged to present, upon arrival, a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before their entry to Greece. Travellers should be laboratory tested with RT-PCR of oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab.

Protocols for arrivals at land borders in Greece

For latest information also check travel.gov.gr/#
Driving abroad

Arrivals by sea by ferry ships are allowed only in Patras, Corfu and Igoumenitsa ports.
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete their Passenger Locator Form
A confirmation email will be sent upon its submission. An electronic or hard copy of the PLF confirmation should be presented to the designated crew members before embarkation onboard a ship at any Italian port. Travellers will also receive the PLF with a QR code on the day of their scheduled arrival in Greece (at midnight) and will be notified via email (the QR code will be provided in a link in the confirmation email).
No such restriction applies on yachting.
All visitors from air, land or sea, will be subject to random tests upon arrival. Upon being tested, travelers move to their final destination. In the event of a positive result, they will be contacted and placed on 14-day quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state.

Protocols for sea arrivals in Greece

For latest information also check travel.gov.gr/#
Ship passenger rights

Arrivals by airplane :

Travelling from EU countries is allowed without restrictions, with the exception of Bulgaria, Romania and Malta.

Travelling to and from Norway, Switzerland, Iceland and Liechtenstein, as well as Andorra, Monaco, Vatican City State and Republic of San Marino, is allowed without restrictions.

From 17 August, it has been announced that visitors arriving from Sweden, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic will need to provide a negative test for COVID-19 to gain entry. The required test cannot be older than 72 hours prior to entry. The same requirement will apply to all visitors entering Greece via its land borders, including Greek citizens returning home.

Travelling from Greece or returning to Greece
It has been announced that, from 17 August, all visitors entering Greece via its land borders, including Greek citizens returning home, will need to provide a negative test for COVID-19 to gain entry. The required test cannot be older than 72 hours prior to entry.

Rules and Exceptions
Travellers entering Greece for non-essential reasons through the Promachonas border station are obliged to present, upon arrival, a negative test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours before their entry to Greece (RT-PCR of oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab test).

Travellers from Bulgaria, Romania and Malta (from 17 August also from Sweden, Belgium, Spain, the Netherlands and the Czech Republic), will be required to have a negative molecular test result (PCR) for COVID-19, performed up to 72 hours prior to their entry to Greece. This does not apply to Greek citizens, permanent residents of Greece and travellers for essential professional reasons. Travellers should be tested with RT-PCR of oropharyngeal or nasopharyngeal swab. The certificates should be written in English and bear the name and passport/national ID number of the traveller.
All visitors arriving by air, land or sea transport will be subject to random tests upon arrival. After being tested, travellers will be allowed to move to their final destination. In the event of a positive result, they will be contacted and placed on 14-day quarantine, with expenses covered by the Greek state.

Mandatory Travel Documentation
Before entering the country, all travellers must complete a Passenger Locator Form

Links to relevant national sources

Travel.gov.gr
Protocols for air arrivals in Greece
Protocols for sea arrivals in Greece
Protocols for arrivals at land borders in Greece

Air passenger rights.

Updated info on air travel regulations may be found at the IATA website

Source: https://reopen.europa.eu/en/map/GRC

15.08.2020

Temporary entry ban to third-country nationals

Greece has prolonged until 31-08-2020 the temporary entry ban to all third-country nationals from any point of entry into the country, by any means of transport, extended on all sea, rail and road connections. The above restriction does not apply to nationals of member states of the EU as well as nationals of countries of the Schengen agreement including their spouses or couples in civil partnership and their minor children.
From the scope of this restriction are excluded citizens of the following countries:
Algeria, Australia, Georgia, Canada, Japan, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zealand, Rwanda, South Korea, People’s Republic of China, Thailand, Tunisia, Uruguay and United Arab Emirates. Citizens of the abovementioned countries can be subject to sample laboratory checks.
In order to prove their place of residence, citizens of third countries may supply a residence permit, or a work permit, or their ID provided that it shows their place of residence, or a driving licence or other documents.
From the temporary entry ban to all third- country nationals from any point of entry into the country, by any means of transport are excluded:

• a) medical and nursing staff, researchers and health professionals provided that they show at the points of entry in the country a certificate of professional competence or other documents that document their professional capacity and provided that their entry in the country is related with the exercise of their professional duties
• b) long term residents in member states of the EU and in member states of the Schengen agreement holding a residence permit in EU or Schengen agreement member states
• c)members of government missions
• d)members of diplomatic missions and consulates, members of international and European organizations, members of humanitarian organizations, military staff.
• e) staff employed in the transport sector including naval staff, aircraft crews, crews and technical staff of leased aerial fire-fight transport modes, lorry drivers with the absolutely necessary staff for carriage of goods
• f) passengers in transit
• g) students
• h)people caring for older or disabled people and i) seasonal workers in the agricultural sector.

The abovementioned a)-f) should prove their identity with the appropriate documentation and shall be subject to sample tests. Citizens of third countries that are included in this entry ban have the right to make a request to the diplomatic authorities of their place of residence or stay for their by exception entrance in Greece for professional or personal reasons.

Start date: 15.08.2020

End date: 31.08.2020

More info: https://eody.gov.gr/neos-koronaios-covid-19/

Source : https://ec.europa.eu/transport/coronavirus-response_en

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

15.07.2020

Temporary restrictions with Bulgaria

Greece extends the already imposed restrictions on all rail and road connections from Bulgaria and a ban on entry to all passengers from Bulgaria with the exception of border crossing point of Promachonas. The ban of entry does not include Greek citizens and holders of residence documents and the entrance of persons for absolutely necessary business trips verified by the appropriate documentation. The transit of lorries for carriage of goods is allowed.
The persons entering -and not belonging to the abovementioned excluded categories- must have undergone a laboratory check (PCR method) for CoVID-19 and will have to be negative to it.
The test has to be done the last 72 hours before their arrival to Greece, in a reference laboratory of the country of origin or transit, or in a public or a private laboratory which has to be certified from the competent certification authority of the country. Similarly, they must have an attestation of the above diagnosis, in English, which will include their name and passport or ID number.

Start date: 15.07.2020

End date: 29.07.2020

More info: https://eody.gov.gr/neos-koronaios-covid-19/

Source : https://ec.europa.eu/transport/coronavirus-response_en

___________________________________________________________________________________________________

01.07.2020
Temporary entry ban to third-country nationals

Greece has issued a temporary entry ban to all third- country nationals from any point of entry into the country, by any means of transport, extended on all sea, rail and road connections. The above restriction does not apply to nationals of member states of the EU as well as nationals of countries of the Schengen agreement including their spouses or couples in civil partnership and their minor children. From the scope of this restriction are excluded citizens of the following countries: Algeria, Australia, Georgia, Canada, Japan, Democracy of Serbia, Montenegro, Morocco, New Zeeland, Rwanda, South Korea, People’s Republic of China, Thailand, Tunisia and Uruguay. Citizens of the abovementioned countries are exempted from the sample laboratory checks. In order to prove their place of residence, citizens of third countries may supply a residence permit, or a work permit, or their ID provided that it shows their place of residence, or a driving licence or other documents. From the temporary entry ban to all third- country nationals from any point of entry into the country, by any means of transport are excluded:

• a) medical and nursing staff, researchers and health professionals provided that they show at the points of entry in the country a certificate of professional competence or other documents that document their professional capacity and provided that their entry in the country is related with the exercise of their professional duties
• b) long term residents in member states of the EU and in member states of the Schengen agreement holding a residence permit in EU or Schengen agreement member states
• c)members of government missions
• d)members of diplomatic missions and consulates, members of international and European organizations, members of humanitarian organizations, military staf
• e) staff employed in the transport sector including naval staff, aircraft crews, crews and technical staff of leased aerial fire-fight transport modes, lorry drivers in transit, with the absolutely necessary staff for carriage of goods

• f) passengers in transit

  
  

• g) students
• h)people caring for older or disabled people
• i) seasonal workers in the agricultural sector.

Start date: 01.07.2020

End date: 15.07.2020

Further information: https://travel.gov.gr

Source: https://ec.europa.eu/transport/coronavirus-response_en

20.03.2020

COVID19 MEASURES

24.1.2020

The Regional Customs Authorities were given guidance so as to instruct the
Customs Offices in their Region, to acquire masks and gloves.

24.2.2020

The Regional Customs Authorities were given guidance so as to
communicate the hyper link of the Ministry of Health, with the protective
measures to be observed by all staff in the Customs Offices.

28.2.2020

The Directorate General of Customs & Excise requested the allocation of
funds for the disinfection of passenger control areas within the Customs
Offices, as well as for the provision of special protective suits, masks, eye
glasses and boots.

5.3.2020

The Regional Customs Authorities were given guidance so as to instruct the
Customs Offices in their Region, to take the necessary steps for the
procurement of disinfection services and the coordination of their actions with
other Agencies operating on the Border, in Ports and Airports.

9.3.2020

Survey on the implementation of the disinfection measures, the stocks of
protective material available and communication of further instructions
(Circular Order of the Governor of the Independent Authority for Public
Revenue/IAPR).

9.3.2020

A Crisis Management Group for Customs was established under the Director
General of Customs & Excise.

14.3.2020

Customs Offices were instructed to have their staff working in alternate shifts
(following a Decision of the Governor of the IAPR) in order to prevent
spreading of the infection and safeguarding the operation of the Customs
Offices in case of an incident during a shift.

16.3.2020

Survey: import data on essential supplies and medicines from all Customs
Offices.

16.3.2020

The Regional Customs Authorities were given guidance so as to instruct the
Customs Offices in their Region, to observe the guidelines issued by the
General Secretariat for Civil Protection on avoiding standing queues in
Customs premises (for example by customs brokers) and have those
Guidelines pinned up on the entrance doors of the Customs Offices.

Further information: http://www.wcoomd.org/-/media/wco/public/global/....

Advice to travellers (10.03.2020)

The risk for travellers is considered high. It is recommended that travellers avoid nonessential travel to areas with local transmission of COVID-19: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/situatio....

Start date: 10.03.2020

End date: not available

Further information: https://eody.gov.gr/novel-coronavirus-covid-19-advice-for-travellers/

Temporary and limited relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times

The Hellenic Republic has notified a temporary relaxation of the enforcement of driving and rest times for all national and international freight transport on Greek territory with public and private use trucks of any nationality. This relaxation is granted pursuant to Article 14(2) of Regulation (EC) No 561/2006.

Start date: 19.03.2020

End date: 17.04.2020

Further information: https://ec.europa.eu/transport/sites/transport/files/temporary-relaxatio...