Visa in Greece
52 Institutions·200+ ProgramsKey Takeaways
- Proof of funds required: at least €7,200 per year
- Visa application fee: approximately €100
- Processing time after submission: 2–4+ weeks (plus 1–2 weeks for document preparation)
- Estimated living expenses: €500 to €800 per month
- Health insurance premium: €300 to €600 per year
Overview
A student visa is required for non-EU citizens staying in Greece for over 90 days.
- Required for degree and long-term courses.
- You may need official documentation from your university and supporting validation documents, depending on consular requirements.
- You must have a valid passport.
Who Needs This Visa
- Non-EU nationals enrolled in studies longer than 90 days need a student visa.
- Short courses under 90 days use a different permit and are not covered here.
- If you hold EU citizenship, this visa does not apply.
Before You Apply
Start preparations well before travel.
- Begin the visa process 10–12 weeks before your semester starts.
- Submit your application 60–90 days before departure.
- Expect in-person submission at the Greek consulate. Plan for travel costs.
- Get the acceptance letter certified by the Greek Ministry of Education before you submit.
Documents Required
Bring originals and certified copies. Consulates commonly ask for originals.
- Acceptance letter from a university
- Visa letter (if issued by the institution)
- Proof of funds: bank statements showing approximately €7,000–€7,200 per year
- Accommodation proof (housing letter or lease)
- Valid passport
- Health insurance letter confirming coverage (premium typically €300–€600 per year)
Note: Some consulates list the acceptance letter, visa letter, housing letter, and health insurance letter as required originals.
Financial Requirements and Costs
You must show specific funds and cover application costs.
- Proof of funds: at least €7,200 per year
- Estimated living expenses: €500–€800 per month (for rent, food, transport)
- Health insurance: expected premium €300–€600 per year
- Visa fee: approximately €100
Prepare bank statements, sponsor letters, or official guarantees that meet the proof of funds threshold.
Application Steps and Timeline
Follow a clear sequence to avoid delays.
- Obtain the university acceptance letter.
- Gather proof of funds, accommodation proof, passport, and health insurance letter.
- Book an appointment at the Greek consulate for in-person submission.
- Submit originals and required copies at your appointment.
- Expect consulate processing of 2–4+ weeks after submission.
Allow 1–2 weeks extra for document preparation and certification. Start 10–12 weeks before classes start.
Processing, Fees and Logistics
- Visa processing time after submission: 2–4+ weeks
- Additional document preparation: 1–2 weeks
- Visa fee: approximately €100
- In-person application required at the consulate; budget for travel costs
- Consulate may request original documents during the appointment
Health Insurance and Accommodation
- Health insurance is required for the application. Premiums typically range €300–€600 per year.
- Accommodation proof is required. Provide a housing letter, lease, or similar document.
- Keep digital and printed copies of insurance and housing documents to present at the consulate.
Work during Your Studies
- Non-EU students in Greece can work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during academic sessions and full-time during holidays.
- EU students can work in Greece without a work permit.
Important Dates and Scholarships
- Typical application deadlines for the academic year starting in September are between May and August.
- Scholarships are available through the Greek State Scholarships Foundation.
- Contact your university and the foundation early to learn application windows and eligibility.
FAQs
The visa fee is approximately €100. Expect additional costs: health insurance premiums of €300–€600 per year and living expenses of €500–€800 per month. You must also show proof of funds of at least €7,200 per year.
Consulate processing typically takes 2–4+ weeks after you submit your application. Allow an extra 1–2 weeks for document preparation. Start the process 10–12 weeks before your semester and apply 60–90 days before departure.
You need an acceptance letter certified by the Greek Ministry of Education, proof of funds (€7,200+/yr), accommodation proof, health insurance letter (€300–€600/yr), and a passport valid at least six months after your return date. Consulates often require originals.
Yes, if you're from the EU, you can work in Greece without a work permit. Non-EU students on a student visa are allowed to work up to 20 hours/week during the study period and up to 40 hours during vacation periods.
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