Greece Visa Documents: All You Need to Know

Know everything about required documents for Greece visa and its application process.
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3 min
26-April-2024

Travelling from India to Greece embodies a journey filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultural exchanges. For Indian citizens planning to explore, study, or work in Greece, obtaining a visa is a necessary step due to the stringent entry requirements set forth by the Schengen Agreement, to which Greece is a signatory.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Greece visa application tracking and process for Indian residents. It also provides details about necessary documents, specific requirements for minors, different employment statuses, and other critical facets of the application process. Additionally, the article discusses how having travel insurance can help you in the entire process.

What are the Greece visa requirements for Indians?

To apply for Greece visa for Indians, these are the documents required:

  • Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your intended stay in Greece and have at least two blank pages.
  • Greece visa application form: Fully completed and signed.
  • Photographs: Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet the Schengen visa photo requirements.
  • Travel itinerary: Proof of round-trip flight reservations or detailed travel plans.
  • Proof of accommodation: Hotel reservations, rental agreements, or a letter of invitation from a host in Greece.
  • Travel insurance: Insurance coverage for medical emergencies and repatriation expenses amounting to a minimum of Rs. 25.5 lakh.
  • Proof of financial means: Bank statements, sponsorship letters, or proof of earnings to show you can sustain yourself during your stay.
  • Cover letter: Explaining the purpose of the visit and the itinerary.

Read about the travel insurance for Schengen visa for easy application process.

Documents required for Greece visa for minors

Following are the documents required for minors to apply for Greece visa:

  • Birth certificate: A copy of the minor’s birth certificate.
  • Consent of parents: Signed letters of consent from both parents, along with copies of their passports.
  • Application form: Signed by both parents or legal guardians.
  • School enrollment proof: Document from the school confirming current enrollment and approved leave.

Documents required for Greece visa for Indians based on employment status

Following are the documents required as per your employment status

  • For employed: Employment contract, recent pay slips (last 3 months), and an NOC from the employer stating leave approval.
  • For self-employed: A copy of the business licence, company bank statements, and the income tax return.
  • For students: Proof of enrollment and a no-objection certificate from the school or university.
  • For retirees: Pension statements for the last six months.

What is the online application process for Greece visa for Indians?

Applying for a Greece visa online involves a series of steps designed to streamline the process while ensuring compliance with immigration requirements. This guide focuses on applying for a short-stay Schengen visa, which is typically used for tourism, business, or family visits lasting up to 90 days within 180 days. Here’s a detailed step-by-step breakdown of the online application process:

Step 1: Determine visa type: First, identify the correct type of visa required based on the purpose of your trip (e.g., tourism, business, visiting family). For most short visits, a Schengen visa will suffice.

Step 2: Visit the official visa application portal: Access the official Greece visa application portal or the website of the consulate or embassy of Greece in your country. This platform provides the necessary resources and links to start the application process.

Step 3: Complete the online application form: Fill out the visa application form online. Ensure all information is accurate and matches the details in your travel documents. Common fields include personal information, travel details, accommodation, and financial means.

Step 4: Gather required documents: Prepare the necessary supporting documents, such as a valid passport, photographs, travel itinerary, proof of financial means, travel insurance, etc.

Step 5: Submit biometric data: If it is your first time applying for a Schengen visa within the last five years, you will need to visit a visa application centre or the consulate in person to provide biometric data (fingerprints and photograph). If you have previously provided biometrics, they may be reused.

Step 6: Pay the visa application fee: The visa fee can be paid online or at the consulate during your appointment. Fees vary depending on visa type, applicant age, and other factors. Make sure to check the current fee structure on the official portal or consulate website.

Step 7: Schedule an appointment: Depending on the specific requirements of the Greek consulate or embassy, you may need to schedule an appointment to submit your documents in person. Some systems allow for appointment scheduling online immediately after completing the application form.

Step 8: Attend the visa interview: If required, attend the visa interview on the scheduled date and time. During the interview, you may be asked about your travel plans, accommodations, and purpose of visit. This is also when you formally submit your application and supporting documents.

Step 9: Track your application: Use the online tracking feature available on the visa application portal to monitor the status of your application. You will receive updates via email or SMS based on the contact preferences set during the application process.

Step 10: Collect your visa: Once approved, you will be notified about the visa collection process. You can either collect the visa in person or, in some cases, have it mailed to you.

Each step in the online application process is designed to ensure that all the necessary legal and logistical arrangements are appropriately handled. Ensure that all information provided is accurate and that you comply with all specified requirements to avoid delays or rejections in your visa application process.

What are the photograph requirements for Greece visa application?

Following the specifications of photographs required for the Greece visa application:

  • Size: The photo must be 35mm x 45mm.
  • Background: Light, solid and plain.
  • Face Coverage: The face should cover 70-80% of the photo, with a full-face view directly facing the camera.
  • Expression: Neutral expression with a closed mouth.
  • Glasses: Only if they do not obscure the eyes. No reflections or tinted lenses.
  • Headgear: For religious purposes only, must not cover the face.

What supporting documents are required for the interview for a Greece visa?

You will require the following supporting documents for the Greece visa interview:

  • Confirmation of appointment: Proof of your scheduled visa appointment.
  • Identity and residency proof: Valid passport and, if applicable, a residency permit.
  • Financial stability documents: Latest bank statements, credit card statements, or sponsor letters.
  • Employment verification: Employment contract, latest salary slips, and leave permission.
  • Accommodation proof: Hotel bookings or a letter from your host in Greece.
  • Travel itinerary: Detailed plan of your activities and movements throughout your stay.

What is the cost of Greece visa?

The visa fees for entering Greece vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. Here is a detailed overview of the fees associated with different types of Greek visas:

  • Schengen visa (Type C): The standard fee is approx. Rs. 7,000 for adults and approx. Rs. 3,500 for children aged 6-12. Children under 6 years old are exempt from the visa fee.
  • National visa (Type D): The fee is generally around approx. Rs. 16,000. This visa is required for stays exceeding 90 days within Greece
  • Greek Golden Visa (residence permit for investment): Approximately Rs. 1.78 lakh (€2,000), which covers the primary applicant. This fee is for processing the residency permit that is granted when you make a significant investment in Greece, usually in real estate. Each family member included in the application, such as a spouse, dependent children, and parents of the investor, may be charged an additional fee which is usually around Rs. 13,415 (€150) per person.

It is important to note that these fees are subject to change based on revisions to visa policies and should always be verified with the nearest Greek embassy or consulate before application. Additionally, all fees are generally non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of the visa application.

What is the processing time for Greece visa?

The processing time for a Greek visa can vary depending on the type of visa applied for and the specific circumstances of the applicant. Here are general guidelines on processing times for different types of Greek visas:

  • Schengen Visa (Short-stay Visa, Type C): The typical processing time for a Schengen visa to Greece is about 15 calendar days from the date of application. This is the standard time under the Schengen Visa Code for processing short-stay visa applications. In some cases, it might be possible to expedite processing, especially for urgent travel, though this is not guaranteed and depends on the specific circumstances. Additionally, in certain situations, particularly when additional documentation or a more detailed review is required, the processing time can extend up to 30 or even 60 days.
  • National visa (long-stay visa, type D): Long-stay visas, such as those for work, study, or family reunification, generally take longer to process. The typical processing time can be from 30 days to a few months. The exact time depends on the complexity of the case, the need for additional documentation, or the workload of the consulate or embassy.
  • Greek Golden Visa (residence by investment): After applying all the required documents, the initial assessment can take a few weeks. The total processing time for a Golden Visa can range from 2 to 3 months. This includes the time taken to verify the investment, conduct due diligence, and process the residency documentation.

Conclusion

Applying for a Greece visa from India involves meticulous planning and careful preparation of various documents, each tailored to the applicant's circumstances. It's essential to approach the visa application process with a clear understanding of the requirements to ensure a smooth journey to Greece.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the Greece visa fee?

The Greece visa fee varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant's nationality. For a standard Schengen visa, the fee is typically around €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12. However, there may be additional fees for specific visa categories or services like express processing or visa facilitation.

What is the minimum bank balance required for Greece visa?

The minimum bank balance required for a Greece visa is not explicitly defined by Greek authorities. However, applicants are generally expected to demonstrate sufficient financial means to cover their expenses during their stay in Greece, including accommodation, transportation, and daily expenses.

What are the documents required for Greece work visa?

Documents required for a Greece work visa usually include a valid passport, a job offer or employment contract from a Greek employer, proof of qualifications or professional experience relevant to the job, health insurance coverage, and any additional documents specified by the Greek embassy or consulate.

How to apply for Greece visa?

To apply for a Greece visa, complete the application form, gather required documents, schedule an appointment, attend an interview (if needed), and submit your application with the appropriate fee. Await processing and collect your visa upon approval.

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