Discover Greece: Your visit visa requirements guide
Greece, a land of ancient history, beautiful landscapes, delicious food, and friendly people, offers a vibrant and rich experience. From the Acropolis in Athens to the islands of Mykonos and Santorini, Greece promises an unforgettable journey. Indian citizens planning to visit Greece will need a Schengen visa, since Greece is part of the Schengen Area. Understanding the specific Greece visit visa requirements and the application process is consequently crucial for your trip. This comprehensive guide outlines these requirements, thereby helping ensure your application is strong and compliant. Discover how ATSOL VISA simplifies securing your Greece visit visa.
Essential requirements for your Greece visit visa
Meeting the specific Greece visit visa requirements is fundamental for a successful application. Therefore, gathering the correct documents and presenting them accurately is essential.
Passport and photographs
- Passport: You need an original passport. It must remain valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. Furthermore, it requires at least two blank pages, and it must have been issued within the last 10 years. You should also submit old passports, if applicable.
- Photographs: Include two recent color passport-size photographs (35mm x 45mm). You should take these within the last six months. They require a white or clear background and a matte finish. Ensure your face occupies 70-80% of the photo area. Maintain a neutral expression and a closed mouth.
Application forms and letters
- Visa Application Form: Submit a completely filled and signed Schengen visa application form.
- Cover Letter: Prepare a personal covering letter. This letter should state the purpose of your visit, your designation, passport details, travel dates, and your intent to return to India.
Travel arrangements confirmation
- Flight Tickets: You must provide confirmed return or onward flight tickets. These tickets consequently demonstrate your intent to return. Consider booking refundable tickets or providing flight reservations initially.
- Accommodation: You need confirmed accommodation details. This includes hotel bookings or an invitation letter from a host. An invitation letter requires specific details about you and the host, including their address and contact information.
- Travel Itinerary: Prepare a detailed, day-to-day plan for your stay in Greece. This demonstrates clear travel intentions.
Financial proof for your stay
- Bank Statements: Provide original bank statements from the last three to six months. These must show sufficient funds. Include original Indian bank statements on bank letterhead with a stamp and signature. Passbooks, e-statements, or net banking copies are typically not accepted.
- Income Tax Returns (ITR): Submit ITR or Form 16 for the last two to three years to demonstrate financial stability.
- Sponsorship Letter (if applicable): If someone sponsors your trip, include their financial documents, a sponsorship letter, and proof of relationship.
Travel insurance: A mandatory requirement
Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen Area is mandatory. It must have a minimum coverage of €30,000 (approximately USD 34,000).
Understanding the Greece visa application process
Applying for a Greece visit visa involves several key steps.
- Determine Visa Type: First, confirm you need a Greece visit visa (Schengen Type C) for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Gather Supporting Documents: Next, collect all necessary documents based on your specific circumstances.
- Complete Application Form: Accurately fill out the application form.
- Book Appointment: Schedule an appointment at the nearest VFS Global Visa Application Centre or Greek Embassy/Consulate.
- Submit Application & Biometrics: Attend your appointment, submit documents, pay fees, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and a digital photograph). Biometrics are mandatory for applicants aged 12 and above, although some exceptions apply.
- Attend Interview (if requested): Be prepared for an interview if requested.
- Await Processing: Processing typically takes 15 working days. However, it can extend up to 45 days, or longer during peak seasons. Therefore, apply well in advance.
- Collect Passport: Finally, collect your passport with the visa or arrange courier delivery.
Greece visa fees and processing time
The standard Schengen Greece visa fee for Indian applicants is EUR 80 (approximately ₹7,280). Children aged 6-12 pay EUR 40. Remember, additional service fees may apply. Fees are non-refundable.
Standard processing typically takes 15 working days. However, it can extend to 15-45 days.
Greece visa eligibility and requirements
Eligibility requires a valid passport meeting specific requirements, proof of funds, documentation for the purpose of visit, and confirmed return flight tickets. Travel insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000 is mandatory, as is proof of accommodation. Avoiding overstaying in Schengen countries is crucial. This helps prevent rejection, fines, deportation, or entry bans. More details on eligibility and requirements are available online.
How ATSOL Visa assists with your Greece visit visa
Navigating the specific Greece visit visa requirements can be complex. ATSOL VISA simplifies this process:
- Expert Guidance: The team clarifies the exact Greece visit visa requirements for your chosen visa type. This includes advising on passport validity, photo specifications, financial proof, and application forms.
- Document Review: ATSOL VISA meticulously reviews all your documents. This includes bank statements, invitation letters, flight tickets, accommodation proofs, and travel insurance. We ensure everything meets stringent guidelines, consequently minimizing rejection chances.
- On-the-Spot Assistance: They offer same-day service for eligible applications for enrolled clients. This dedication to efficiency streamlines your application process, minimizing delays.
Important disclaimer
This page provides general guidance on Greece visit visa requirements. Please note that visa regulations are subject to frequent change. Therefore, always verify the most up-to-date and specific requirements directly with the Embassy, Consulate, or official visa application center for Greece. Doing so ensures you have the most current information before applying.
Conclusion
Securing a Greece visit visa requires careful attention to detail. Meeting the specific Greece visit visa requirements for passports, photos, financial proof, and travel arrangements is essential for a successful outcome. Understanding the distinction between visa types and processing steps helps streamline your application journey.
ATSOL VISA offers expert assistance in navigating these complex Greece visit visa requirements. They help guarantee a compliant submission and a smoother visa application journey.
Contact ATSOL VISA for personalized support.