Source: European Union/Re-open EU

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

Source: European Commission

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





Source: WCO/Directorate General of Customs and Excise, Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR)

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...




Remarks from the International Road Transport Union

23.03.2022

COVID-19 Update: entry conditions in Greece

From 15 March 2022 onwards, travellers visiting Greece are no longer required to fill out the Passenger Locator Form (PLF). However, other entry conditions are still in place.

Entry conditions:
- Travellers coming from EU member states and Schengen countries, as well as from the 35 non-EU countries that have joined the EU Digital Covid Certificate system, must hold a European Union Digital COVID Certificate. Otherwise, see the other measures in place: here.
- Travellers arriving in Greece, from 21 March 2022 to 4 April 2022, holding a EU Digital Covid Certificate are not obliged to show an extra negative COVID test result upon their arrival.
- From 21 March to 4 April 2022, truck drivers, regardless of the certificate in their possession, are not obliged to show an extra negative Covid test result upon their arrival.

All travellers arriving in Greece, regardless of the certificate in their possession, may be subject to random obligatory molecular test (PCR) or Rapid Antigen Test for COVID-19.

Specificity for truck drivers entering from Italy:
Truck drivers, regardless of their nationality, performing freight on the Italy-Greece routes must submit a negative self-test result before boarding at the port of departure. Upon arrival at the Greek port of destination, the drivers are required to present to the competent Greek authorities the declaration of the self-test.

Land borders entries:
Travellers, including truck drivers, are allowed to enter from land borders through the entrance gates of Promachonas, Ormenios, Evzoni, Nymfaia, Exochis, Nikis, Doirani, Krystallopigi, Kipi, Kakavia, Kastania and Mavromatiou, on a 24h basis.
Through the Mertziani Entrance Gate, entrance is allowed from 8:00 to 20:00.

More information: here.

Sources: OFAE, gov.gr

_________________________________________________________________________

22.06.2021

COVID-19 update: Self-Test Declaration for truck drivers in Greece


According to Government Gazette 2661/18.06.2021 (Article four) the following applies for the entry of truck drivers into Greece from Saturday, 19th of June 2021 at 06:00 until Saturday, 26th of June 2021 at 06:00:

Trucks drivers, regardless of nationality, performing freight transportation on the Italy-Greece ferry routes (to the ports of Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu) must submit at departure port a COVID-19 self-test declaration of negative result before boarding the ship. Upon arrival at the Greek port of destination, drivers are required to present to the competent Greek authorities the above self-test declaration and are subject to mandatory examination for rapid detection of coronavirus COVID-19 antigen (rapid test).

Please find attached the self-test result declaration form. 

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

18.05.2021

COVID-19 update: New provisions in restrictions to enter Greece

The Greek Government has published a new Ordinance on 14 May 2021 – valid until 24 May 2021 - regarding the restrictions applied to those entering Greece from abroad, in order to control the spread of COVID-19. New provisions are as following:

Goods Transport:

Trucks are allowed to enter Greece via the following land BCPs:

  • Promahonas & Ormenio (GR-BUL) on a 24/7 basis
  • Evzoni (GR-NMK), Kipi (GR-TUR), Exohi (GR-BUL) & Nimfea (GR-BUL), from 07:00am until 23:00,
  • Kakavia (GR-ALB) from 07:00am until 19:00. Truck drivers are exempt from the daily quota (max 400persons) applied on peope entering from Kakavia

Truck drivers of all nationalities, who are entering GR from the a/m land BCPs are not required anymore to submit a PLF before arrival, nor to carry any health certificate. Rapid tests are to be done randomly upon arrival at the border checkpoint

Passenger Transport:

As of 14 May 2021 Greece has officially started the touristic season, and passengers from a list of approved countries may travel to Greece.

Passengers are allowed to enter the country through all international airports and the ports of Patras, Igoumenitsa and Corfu. They are also allowed to enter from the land borders through the entry gates of Promachonas and Ormenio in a 24h basis and Evzoni from 07:00 to 23:00.

Before arrival:

- Passengers must fill in the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) no later than 23:59 (11.59 PM) of the day before arriving in Greece. For more information, please click here.

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.

- 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.

- A certificate of a positive PCR molecular test result, confirming that the holder recovered from the SARS-CoV-2 virus infection, performed at least 2 months before arrival, and no later than 9 months before arrival.

Detailed conditions for travelling to GR, the list of approved countries, as well as a detailed health protocol applied can be found at www.travel.gov.gr


Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

27.04.2021

Lifting of the traffic ban of public holidays of Easter in Greece


The Greek Ministry of Transport has announced the lifting of the traffic ban  of the public holiday of Easter applicable to national roads in Greece on Good Thursday 29th April 2021, Good Friday 30th April 2021, Easter Monday 3rd May 2021 and Easter Tuesday 4th May 2021.


Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

06.04.2021

COVID-19 update: New restrictions in Greece

Please note that as of 5 April 2021, entrance for trucks via Evzoni border point will be allowed between 7:00 hours and 23:00 hours  (instead of 19:00 hours). All truck drivers entering from the same BCP will be obliged to take Covid19 rapid test at the border, and those who are tested positive will not be allowed to enter.

Other than that, all other restrictions remain in place about Greece.

Quick Reminder: 

-         Entrance through the Kakavia border point (including the passing of trucks) will be allowed strictly between 7am and 7pm

-         All citizens (including truck drivers) entering Greece from Kakavia and Evzoni will be obliged to take a Covid-19 rapid test at both border points. Those who test positive will be denied entry.

-         All citizens that enter Greece through both border points must self-isolate for 14 days (up from 7 days previously). 

It is reminded that all persons (incl. truck drivers) going through Greece’s entry points are already obliged to have filled out a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) prior to their trip.

Travelers (not truck drivers) are also obliged to present a negative PCR test of 72hrs.

In addition to the a/m information it is to be noted that rapid tests are also performed at the ports of Patras and Igoumenitsa to all persons entering Greece via Italy.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

12.03.2021

Lifting of the driving ban for the public holiday of Ash Monday in Greece

It is informed that  the Ministry of Transport  of Greece, has announced the lifting of the traffic ban of the public holiday of Ash Monday applicable to national roads in Greece on Friday 12 March, Saturday 13 March and Monday 14 March 2021.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

02.03.2021

COVID-19 update: Revised restrictions in Greece

Truck drivers are now exempted from the daily quota of 400 entries from both border points Kakavia (Greece-Albania) and Evzoni (Greece-North Macedonia).

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

01.03.2021

CORRIGENDUM: New restrictions in Greece

Please find below a slightly corrected information about the new restrictions in Greece. 

The maximum entry of 700 entries to Greece from both border points (Kakavia (Greece-Albania) and Evzoni (Greece-North Macedonia) ) per day is now set at 400. This


COVID-19 update: New restrictions in Greece


 Greek Civil Protection Deputy Minister announced new restrictions for entering Greece through the Kakavia (Greece-Albania) and Evzoni (Greece-North Macedonia) in efforts to limit the spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19).

According to the new restrictions, as of 6:00 hrs on Monday, 1 March 2021 and until 15 March 2021:

-         Entrance through the Kakavia and Evzoni border points (including the passing of trucks) will be allowed strictly between 7am and 7pm

-         The maximum entry of 700 entries to Greece from both border points per day is now set at 400. Truck drivers are exempt from the daily quota.

-         All citizens (including truck drivers) entering Greece from Kakavia and Evzoni will be obliged to take a Covid-19 rapid test at both border points. Those who test positive will be denied entry.

-         All citizens that enter Greece through both border points must self-isolate for 14 days (up from 7 days previously). 

It is reminded that all persons (incl. truck drivers) going through Greece’s entry points are already obliged to have filled out a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) prior to their trip.

Travelers (not truck drivers) are also obliged to present a negative PCR test of 72hrs.

In addition to the a/m information let me also mention that rapid tests are also performed at the ports of Patras and Igoumenitsa to all persons entering Greece via Italy, and since 25.02.21 rapid tests are performed at Promahonas (GR-BUL) which has caused long queues and delays at the BCP.

They have also introduced a daily quota of 400 persons entering via Kakavia and Evzoni including truck drivers. 

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

23.11.2020

The BCP of Krystallopigi between Greece and Albania will remain totally closed until further notice. No entry nor exit will be allowed to any kind of vehicles. The only BCP between the two countries that remains open is Kakavia. Trucks can enter/exit Greece via Kakavia on 24/7 basis. Passengers holding a special permit and a negative PCR to enter Greece via Kakavia, may enter from 06am until 11pm. In addition there is a maximum number of 750 passengers/day that are allowed to enter via Kakavia. Truck drivers are exempt from this quota.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

09.11.2020

The Greek Government has declared the country in a national lockdown as from Saturday 6th November 2020 and until 30.11.2020. There are no restrictions for international goods transport.

Some useful information about international transport truck drivers, as a reminder: 

Drivers can undertake transportations to/from Greece, but must motivate their reasons. This can be done by showing the CMR accompanied by an attestation provided by the employer, or the Transport Workers certificate according to Annex 3 of the EU Green Lanes Directive.


Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

06.11.2020

Greek motorways Interoperability network - single toll pass (OBU) on all national highway 

As of November 4th, 2020, all national road network operators in Greece integrate into the Interoperability network (GRITS). Drivers are as of last Wednesday able to drive on all Greek highways using a single electronic device (OBU) for tolls. The measure is expected to reduce lines and delays at toll posts, speeding up transport throughout Greece.

Subscribers equipped with any of the current OBUs from a Greek road operators, may make use of the Interoperability service when traveling along the participating motorways without any formalities being required since the service has been automatically activated.

Drivers interested in making use of this new service who are not equipped with an OBU may choose the transponder best meeting their needs depending on their place of residence, the road network they use more frequently etc. More information can be found here: https://www.gefyra.gr/en/prices/Dialeitourgikothta-GRITS/

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

27.10.2020

The Greek government has announced additional measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. The new measures in force from 24 October 20, include the following:

  • A night curfew from 00:30 until 05:00 in the regional units category 3 (orange zone) and 4 (red zone). Attica and Thessaloniki are included in these categories (a full map showing which regions in Greece are affected can be found here)
  • There is an exemption for those who work at night and for emergencies. Truck drivers who are working in the restricted areas during the night must have an attestation form from their employer. The Greek government has not provided a specific template for this purpose.  
  • Masks are mandatory indoors and outdoors.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

16.10.2020

Commercial trucks are exempt from the restrictions (restrictions between 11pm and 7am) on entering Greece via its land borders.

Goods transport is allowed 24/7 at all land border crossing points: 

·      Kakavia (GR-ALB)

·      Krystallopigi (GR-ALB)

·      Evzoni (GR-MD)

·      Promachona (GR-BUL)

·      Ormenio (GR-BUL)

·      Nymfaia (GR-BUL)

·      Kipi (GR-TUR)

 

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

12.08.2020

On August 10th 2020, Ministerial Decree with ref. number Δ1α / Γ.Π.οικ. 50676 / 10-8-2020 (Β '3346), "Application of temporary restriction of the land connections of Greece, in order to limit the spread of COVID-19" (see attached document available in greek only), according to which "as of 17.8.2020 a negative molecular control test (PCR test) will be mandarory for anyone entering the country at land borders. The test must also have been performed up to 72 hours before entering Greece The obligation includes Greek citizens and holders of residence permits. The test must have been carried out in the country of departure or transit and not in Greece. Additionally, persons entering Greece for professional reasons during the validity period of this Decree and then exit, will not be allowed to re-enter the country until 31.08.20. Especially, for Greek citizens and permanent residents, re-entering Greece will be allowed only with a pre-notification by submitting the form on travel.gov.gr upon exit from the country.”

The decree enters into force on 17.08.20 and will be valid until 31.08.20


Greek land BCPs:

1.Kakavia (GR-ALB), only for goods transport, operating daily hours 07:00-23:00

2.Krystallopigi (GR-ALB), only for goods transport, operating daily hours 07:00-23:00

3.Evzoni (GR-MD), only for goods transport, operating daily hours 07:00-23:00

4.Promachona (GR-BUL), goods and passenger transport, operating on a 24/7 basis

5.Ormenio (GR-BUL), only for goods transport, operating daily hours 07:00-23:00

6.Nymfaia (GR-BUL), only for goods transport, operating daily hours 07:00-23:00

7.Kipi (GR-TUR), only for goods transport, operating daily hours 07:00-23:00


OFAE has made an intervention to the Greek government highlighting the fact that such provisions cannot be applied to international transport workers, otherwise it will disrupt the flow of goods.

The Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport has submitted an amendment proposal to exempt international transport workers from such provisions, which is currently being discussed by the Ministry of Health. Awaiting for official information about its approval, we will update the information accordingly, hopefully by tomorrow.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

14.07.2020

As of 06:00 on 15 July, all travellers entering Greece for non-essential reasons through the Promachonas border crossing point will be obliged to present the proof of a negative test upon arrival.  The certificate should be dated within 72 hours of taking the test.

Only travellers who have such proof will be allowed to enter Greece by the border authorities. The certificate should be written in English and bear the name and passport/national ID number of the traveller.

The Laboratories that perform the RT-PCR testing should be:

  1. National Reference laboratories
  2. National Public Health Laboratories, or
  3. 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. Certificate forgery is punished by Greek Law.

Travellers will still have to complete and submit their PLF form and may be subject to random testing upon arrival at the Greek border.

In order for these changes to be implemented, the PLF system will not be available for travel through Promachonas until 00:01 of 14 July. Travellers who had already issued their PLF forms will still be able to cross the Promachonas border crossing, but travellers without a PLF form will not be allowed to enter and should reschedule their trip for Wednesday 15 July.

The other land border stations remain closed for non-essential travel.

Further information can be found here.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                   

10.07.2020

On 1 July, the Greek Customs issued a Decree implementing temporary measures for the facilitation of international trade during the Covid-19 pandemic, including some provisions on the validity of the certificate of vehicle approval for TIR operations. It reads, in particular: “Customs authorities at the entrance, exit or destination may allow the continuation of the TIR transport, even if the period of validity of the Certificate of vehicle Approval has expired for the road vehicle or the container for the transport of goods by customs sealing. In this case, the holder must be able to prove that he has submitted request for renewal of the certificate to the competent authority of his country (eg via e-mail, letter, official reference to the certificate or TIR card, etc.).

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

09.07.2020

On 8 July, the Ministry of Citizen Protection withdrew the exemption initially granted to international transport workers from filling out the Passenger Locator Form.

Therefore, drivers travelling to Greece have to submit the duly filled out form and get a QR code; a dedicated check box for drivers has been included in the document, which allows the submission at any time before the date of arrival (whereas, passengers travelling to Greece must submit the form within 48 hours before their arrival).

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

07.07.2020

On 6 July, the Greek Ministry of Transport clarified that international transport workers are exempt from the obligation to fill in the online Passenger Locator Form.

Drivers entering Greece by ship are subject to random health checks and are also asked to fill in a health status questionnaire; whilst onboard, drivers must wear masks. The health form is available in English, and is also provided by the ferry operator on site.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

02.07.2020

From 1 July until 31 August, new procedures are in place for travellers arriving in Greece. All individuals entering the country must fill in a Passenger Locator Form (PLF) upon arrival. Passport and customs controls are carried out and each person’s unique quick response (QR) code is checked on their mobile phone screen or on the printed form with their QR code. Depending on their code, arriving travellers are directed by security personnel either to the screening area or are allowed to continue their trip to their final destination in the country. They will be given instructions from the border personnel concerning, in particular, required action in case they develop symptoms of respiratory infection, in which case they must immediately contact the National Public Health Organization (EODY) Operations Centre. If arriving travellers plan to have multiple stop-overs in Greece, they must declare this and report their initial destination and their travel itinerary for the next 7 days. EODY Mobile Health Units (KOMY) operate around the clock at land border checkpoints.

Arriving travellers who test positive for Covid-19 are obliged to self-isolate at the address of their final destination as declared on their Passenger Locator Form (PLF). Their data is entered into the EODY information system, which is linked to the Covid registry to facilitate contact tracing in the event someone tests positive. Upon completion of the screening, and after having received instructions concerning self-isolation and until the results of their screening are announced, they can enter the country.

All passengers must follow all necessary preventive hygiene measures (use of masks and physical/social distancing). Masks or face coverings are mandatory in public transport, taxis, lifts, hospitals, clinics and diagnostic centres.  Masks are recommended in supermarkets, hair salons and other enclosed spaces.  Those violating the rules may be fined 150 Euros. Physical distancing measures are in effect until further notice.

The Greek-Bulgarian Promachonas-Kulata border crossing point is open; travellers are subject to random testing and NO quarantine requirements. The land borders with Albania, North Macedonia and Turkey remain closed until further notice.

Goods transport is not subject to restrictions nor quarantine provisions. Members are advised that the health check protocol is meant to apply only to passengers; however, enforcement authorities appear to have misinterpreted the new rules and have started to request that drivers also complete. IRU and OFAE are awaiting clarification from the Ministry of Transport and the Ministry of Health, which will be shared as soon as possible. In the meantime, drivers arriving in Greece by sea are advised to fill in the form to avoid unnecessary fines.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

05.06.2020

Passenger Transport:

From 1 to 15 June: Random testing on arriving passengers applies, and anyone who is allowed to  enter Greece from abroad (i.e. people travelling by air from airports  in areas NOT deemed to have “high risk of transmission”, as listed by the EU Aviation Safety Agency) must self-isolate for 7 days, even if they have tested negative. Those testing positive must isolate for a further 7 days, bringing the total time of isolation to 14 days.

From 15 to 30 June: no travel restrictions apply on individuals entering Greece from abroad, but random testing still applies. However, people travelling by air from airports in areas deemed to have “high risk of transmission”, as listed by the EU Aviation Safety Agency, will have to stay overnight in a designated hotel for testing.If they test negative, they must quarantine for seven days; if positive, they will be quarantined under supervision for 14 days.

Goods Transport:

On 29 May, the Greek Government extended the quarantine rules for international truck drivers until 15 June. The number of days to be spent in isolation however has been reduced from 14 to 7.

Facilitation measures:

Greece has signed these ADR Multilateral Agreements: M324 on driver training certificates and safety adviser certificates, and M325 on periodic or intermediate inspections of tanks and certificate of approval for vehicles.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

28.05.2020

On 28 May, the Greek Government advised that the relaxation of driving and rest time rules will not be renewed after 31 May. Therefore, Regulation (EC) 561/2006 will apply from 00:00 on 1 June.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                  

25.05.2020

The previous truck movement restrictions at the Customs office of Evzoni (BCP Greece-North Macedonia) have been lifted. The Customs office of Evzoni is now back to 24/7 operations for all types of goods transport.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                    

20.04.2020

The validity of the self-isolation measure in Greece, as described below, has been prolonged until 15th May 2020.

On 2 April, the Greek government published a new Ministerial Decree on the quarantine routine that people entering Greece from abroad must follow. Art. 2 of the decree sets out specific provisions for truck drivers, as follows:

Workers of all nationalities engaged in international transport operations (land, air or maritime) must, upon entering Greece and without any delay, either transit through the country or reach their final destination within the country. After having reached the final destination in Greece, drivers must commence a temporary isolation period of 14 days. Trucks drivers travelling from Italy to Greece by ship are requested to fill in the following form.

Exemptions to this rule apply in the following cases:

- When there is a need to start a new international transport operation (e.g. bilateral transport). In this case, mandatory quarantine can be lifted at any time, even the day after it began;

- When there is a need to make a national transport operation (within Greek territory). In this case, the driver must spend at least 7 days in isolation, starting from the day he entered the country. Because of the mandatory week spent in isolation, cabotage operations will not be possible. 

The measure now applies from 2 April to 15 May, with a fine of EUR 5,000 to be imposed in the case of any violations. 

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                        

17.04.2020

Regulations on driving and rest times have been temporarily relaxed in Greece. This relaxation is granted pursuant to Article 14(1) of Regulation (EC) No 561/2006.

This temporary relaxation applies from 18 April and will run until 31 May. It will apply to all drivers, irrespective of their nationality, when operating on the territory of the Greece.

- Derogation to Article 6(1) of Regulation 561/2006: replacement of the maximum daily driving limit of 9 hours to 11 hours;

- Derogation to Article 6(2) of Regulation 561/2006: replacement of the maximum weekly driving limit of 56 hours to 58 hours;

- Derogation to Article 6(3) of Regulation 561/2006: replacement of the maximum fortnightly driving limit of 90 hours to 96 hours;

- Derogation to Article 7 of Regulation 561/2006: replacement of the minimum daily breaks requirements by imposing a break of 45 minutes after 5 and a half hours;

- Derogation to Article 8(1) of Regulation 561/2006: reduction of the daily rest requirements from 11 to 9 hours;

- Derogation to Article 8(6) of Regulation 561/2006: postponement of a weekly rest period from six to seven 24-hour period or reduction of the regular weekly rest period from 45 hours to 24 hours;

- Derogation to Article 8(8) of Regulation 561/2006: possibility for the driver to take the regular weekly rest in the vehicle, as long as it has suitable sleeping facilities for each driver and the vehicle is stationary.

The same derogations apply to international transport operations in Greece, that are conducted under the provisions of AETR (1970).

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                     

09.04.2020

On 31 March, the Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport decided to suspend traffic bans on the movement of trucks from 16 April until 21 April (Orthodox Easter). The suspension will also apply from 30 April until 3 May (weekend of Labour Day).

                                                                                                   

04.04.2020

On 2 April, the Greek Government published a new Ministerial Decree on the quarantine routine that people entering Greece from abroad must follow. Art. 2 of the decree sets out specific provisions for truck drivers, which are the following:

Workers of all nationalities engaged in international transport operations (land, air, maritime) must, upon entering Greece and without any delay, either transit through the country or reach their final destination within the country. After having reached the final destination in Greece, drivers must commence a temporary isolation period of 14 days.

Derogations to this rule apply in the following cases:

- When there is a need to start a new international transport operation (e.g. bilateral transport). In this case, mandatory quarantine can be lifted at any time, even the day after it started.

- When there is a need to make a national transport operation (within Greek territory). In this case, the driver must spend at least 7 days in isolation, starting from the day he entered the country. Because of the mandatory week spent in isolation, cabotage operations will not be possible.

The measure applies from 2 April up to 20 April.

In case of violation a fine of EUR 5.000 is imposed.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                        


01.04.2020

On 31 March, the Greek Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport decided to suspend traffic bans on the movement of trucks from 16 April until 21 April and from 30 April until 3 May.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                            

Drivers must present an attestation form from their employer, as well as passport/ID, and the CMR, in order to prove transport activity while on Greek territory.

At the Customs office of Evzoni (BCP Greece-North Macedonia) truck movement restrictions are enforced every day from 22:00-06:00. Trucks carrying ethyl alcohol, perishable goods and medical supplies are exempt from the provision.

Source: OFAE

                                                                                                             

Restrictions

On 22March 2020, the Greek Prime Minister announced that Greece will impose a national lockdown as of 23 March 2020, 06:00.

Passenger Transport:

- The movement of Greek citizens is heavily restricted within Greek territory. Special written permission is required under certain circumstances. For people going to/from their place of work, an attestation form from their employer is required (attached in Greek only).

- Foreign citizens are not allowed to enter Greece.

- Greek citizens returning to Greece from abroad must self-isolate at home for 14 days.

- Most international flights to/from Greek airports have been temporarily cancelled.

Goods Transport:

- Goods transport is exempt from all restrictive measures.

- All borders are open for international transport operations.

- Truck drivers are exempt from self-isolation.

- In some cases a Locator Form may be required by port authorities when entering Greece. Truck drivers will be given the form and asked to complete and sign it. The form requires personal and family contact details (attached in English).

- Currently, it remains unclear whether foreign transport operators/drivers will be required to have an attestation form from their employer (as in point 1 of Passenger Transport above). OFAE has requested further clarification from the Greek authorities on this point.

Relieves

Temporary relaxation of EU Regulation No. 561/2006or AETR

Valid from 19.03.2020 until 18.04.20 (inclusive):

- Art. 6(1): replacement of the maximum daily driving limit of 9 hours with one of 11 hours.

- Art. 6(2): replacement of the maximum weekly driving limit of 56 hours with one of 60 hours.

- Art. 7: replacement of the minimum daily break requirements by imposing a break of 45 minutes after 5 and a half hours.

- Art. 8(1): reduction of the daily rest requirements from 11 to 9 hours.

- Art. 8(6): postponement of a weekly rest period beyond six 24-hour periods.

Source: OFAE




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