Greece Visa Requirements For US Citizens (2025)

U.S. passport holders may enter Greece without a visa for tourism or business purposes for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is possible because Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel among member countries.

Greece Visa Requirements For US Citizens

To enter Greece, ensure the following:

Valid Passport: Your U.S. passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. However, it’s recommended to have at least six months of validity to avoid any travel disruptions.
Proof of Sufficient Funds: Be prepared to show evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. This requirement is often met with credit cards.
Return or Onward Ticket: You must have a return airline ticket or other evidence that you will depart Greece if asked.
Clean Travel Record: Traveling on a passport reported lost or stolen may result in denial of entry.

Note: If you’re traveling on a U.S. official or diplomatic passport, you must obtain a Schengen visa prior to arrival.

Beginning in late 2026, U.S. citizens will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before traveling to Greece and other Schengen countries. ETIAS is not a visa but a mandatory online travel authorization designed to enhance security. It will cost €7 and be valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

Stays Longer Than 90 Days

If you plan to stay in Greece for more than 90 days—for purposes such as work, study, or retirement—you’ll need to obtain a national visa before entering the country. After arrival, you must apply for a residence permit.

Greece offers various long-term visa options, including:

Golden Visa: For individuals investing in real estate.
Financially Independent Person (FIP) Visa: For those with sufficient income to support themselves without working in Greece.
Digital Nomad Visa: For remote workers employed outside of Greece.

Each visa type has specific requirements and application procedures.

Does US Citizens Needs Visa To Travel To Greece?

U.S. citizens can travel to Greece for tourism or business purposes without a visa for stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is possible because Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which allows visa-free travel for short stays .

If you plan to stay in Greece for more than 90 days, or if you’re traveling on an official or diplomatic U.S. passport, you must obtain a visa before your trip .

Currently, U.S. citizens can enjoy visa-free travel to Greece for short stays. However, starting in late 2026, obtaining an ETIAS authorization will become a necessary step before traveling. Ensure your passport is valid for the required period, and be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds and a return or onward ticket

How Long Does It Takes For An American Citizen To Get Greek Visa?

The time it takes for an American citizen to obtain a Greek visa can vary based on the type of visa being applied for, the purpose of travel, and the efficiency of the specific consulate or embassy handling the application. Generally, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays in Greece of up to 90 days within a 180-day period for tourism, business, or family visits. However, if an American citizen intends to stay in Greece longer than 90 days or for purposes such as work, study, or residence, a visa is required. The processing time for such visas typically ranges from a few weeks to a couple of months.

For short-term travel, Greece is part of the Schengen Area, which allows U.S. citizens to enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. No visa is needed in this case, and the process involves simply presenting a valid U.S. passport upon arrival in Greece. The passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date from the Schengen Zone. Entry is generally granted without difficulty, provided the traveler meets all standard requirements, such as proof of return flight, accommodation details, and financial means to support the stay.

For longer stays, such as those requiring a national long-stay visa (type D), the application process is more detailed. This includes visas for purposes such as employment, study, family reunification, or retirement. The processing time for a Greek national visa can vary based on the complexity of the application and the specific Greek consulate where it is submitted. On average, it takes about 3 to 6 weeks from the date of application submission to receive a decision. However, in some cases, it can take up to two months, especially if additional documentation is required or if there are delays in scheduling an appointment.

The application process begins by determining the appropriate type of visa. Once the correct visa type is identified, the applicant must schedule an appointment with the nearest Greek consulate or embassy. Appointments can sometimes take several weeks to secure, especially in busier consulates such as those in New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago. It’s advisable to schedule the appointment well in advance—ideally, at least 6–8 weeks before the intended travel date.

During the visa appointment, applicants must submit a completed application form, a valid passport, passport-sized photos, and supporting documentation relevant to the purpose of travel. This may include an employment contract, university acceptance letter, proof of financial resources, and proof of accommodation in Greece. All documents must often be translated into Greek or English and properly notarized or apostilled, depending on the consulate’s requirements.

After submission, the consulate will review the application and may request an in-person interview or additional documents. If approved, the visa is affixed to the applicant’s passport, and the traveler can then proceed with their plans. It’s important to note that receiving a visa does not automatically guarantee entry into Greece, as final admission is at the discretion of the border authorities.

What Do You Need As A U.S Citizen To Move To Greece

Moving to Greece as a U.S. citizen is an exciting opportunity that promises a blend of history, culture, beautiful landscapes, and a slower pace of life. Whether you are drawn by the Aegean Sea, the historic cities, or the promise of Mediterranean living, relocating to Greece involves more than packing your bags. It requires thoughtful planning, cultural adaptation, and a good understanding of the day-to-day realities of living abroad.

One of the first steps in your journey will be understanding what kind of life you want in Greece. Are you looking to retire in a quiet coastal town? Are you planning to work remotely, start a business, or seek employment in Greece? Or are you moving for academic or personal reasons? Your purpose for moving will shape nearly every aspect of the experience, including where you settle and how you engage with local communities.

Housing is one of the most immediate considerations. Greece offers a wide variety of housing options, from modern apartments in Athens and Thessaloniki to traditional homes in the islands or countryside. Renting is generally more accessible than buying for newcomers, and prices can vary greatly depending on location. It’s advisable to visit and explore different neighborhoods before making a long-term decision. Many expats choose to rent for a few months to get a feel for an area before committing to a lease or purchasing property.

The cost of living in Greece can be significantly lower than in many parts of the U.S., especially outside of the major tourist areas. Daily expenses such as groceries, dining out, and public transportation are generally affordable. Healthcare is another major factor. Greece has both public and private healthcare systems. While the public system is available to residents, many expats choose private healthcare for quicker access and English-speaking staff, and private insurance is often a practical choice.

Adjusting to the local culture is both one of the most rewarding and challenging aspects of moving to Greece. The Greek lifestyle places a strong emphasis on family, community, and social life. Meals are often long and leisurely, and the pace of life, especially outside of major cities, can be more relaxed than what many Americans are used to. Learning even basic Greek phrases can go a long way toward integrating into the community and building relationships with neighbors and locals.

Transportation and infrastructure vary depending on where you choose to live. Larger cities have more comprehensive public transit systems, while rural or island areas may require a car. Roads in more remote areas can be narrow or poorly maintained, and driving can be an adjustment for newcomers. However, ferries and domestic flights also make travel between the mainland and the islands fairly convenient.

Education is another factor for families. Greece has international schools, particularly in cities like Athens, which offer curricula in English and other languages. These schools tend to be expensive but are often the best option for children who are not fluent in Greek. For those pursuing higher education, Greece has several universities that offer programs in English, especially in areas like business, history, and Mediterranean studies.

Building a social network can make a big difference in how quickly and smoothly you adapt. Greece has an active expat community, and many cities have social clubs, language exchanges, and networking events specifically for foreigners. Joining these groups can provide support, friendship, and useful tips from people who’ve already gone through the process.

Moving to Greece as a U.S. citizen is more than just a geographic change—it’s a lifestyle transformation. With thoughtful preparation, an open mind, and a willingness to adapt to a new culture, you can enjoy a fulfilling life in one of Europe’s most beautiful and historically rich countries.

Conclusion

While short-term travel to Greece is straightforward for U.S. citizens and does not require a visa, obtaining a visa for longer stays involves a more intricate and time-consuming process. Applicants should begin planning well in advance, prepare all necessary documentation carefully, and allow for a minimum of 4–8 weeks for visa processing. Staying informed about the latest visa requirements and guidelines issued by the Greek consulate is crucial to ensure a smooth application experience