Greece Lifts Entry Restrictions: What Travelers Need to Know
Will they? Won’t they? Yes, they will! After much back-and-forth, Greek authorities have confirmed today that entry restrictions will be dropped on Monday, May 1.
A spokesperson confirmed that tests, vaccination, or recovery certificates will no longer be required for entry starting next week. This decision follows a recommendation from the Committee of Health Experts that was adopted by the government on April 28.
Furthermore, from May 1, visitors will enjoy full access to museums, archaeological sites, restaurants, and other cultural venues from which vaccination or recovery certificates were previously needed.
“Greece was one of the first countries to establish a series of health and safety measures in the hospitality sector that guaranteed a safe environment for those who chose our country for their holidays. This has paid off with the trust of millions of travelers who enjoyed their long-awaited time in Greece,” said Greece’s Minister of Tourism, Vassilis Kikilias.
Additionally, he stated, “This season is an opportunity for a less logistically and stress-free prior-to-arrival procedure but equally safe journey to witness Greek hospitality, explore new destinations, and discover your next favorite spot in the country.”
The news was given a false start earlier this month when Greece’s Health Minister stated that authorities would suspend COVID-19 protection measures in May. However, this was misinterpreted across several media reports to include all certificates required for entry into the country, a decision that had not yet been reached.
Now, travelers planning to visit Greece this summer can be assured that they no longer have to present any COVID certificates for entry into the country or for venues such as restaurants, bars, museums, and cafes.
While mask-wearing is still required indoors, this mandate will be lifted on June 1. Therefore, if you’re planning on traveling to Greece, here’s what you need to know about the latest requirements.
Entry Requirements for Greece Until May 1
Currently, those holding a valid European Union digital COVID-19 certificate do not need to present proof of a negative pre-arrival COVID-19 test. This applies to travelers from the EU and Schengen zone, as well as 33 other non-EU destinations that have joined the EU digital COVID Certificate system.
Moreover, travelers from Australia, Canada, and the United States can enter by showing one of the following: proof of vaccination, proof of recovery from the virus, or a negative COVID-19 PCR test administered 72 hours before departure, or a negative antigen test conducted no more than 24 hours prior to departure.
Visitors from all other countries, including children over the age of five, need to present proof of a negative COVID-19 PCR test administered 72 hours before departure, or a negative antigen test administered no more than 24 hours prior to departure. Consequently, these requirements will be dropped on May 1.
Proof of Vaccination Required to Enter Some Venues Until May 1
Some spaces, including enclosed eating areas, entertainment facilities (such as cinemas and theaters), museums, exhibition centers, fitness centers, and sports venues, will require proof of vaccination for entry. This rule will be suspended on May 1.
Face Masks Continue to Be Required
Greece still mandates wearing masks indoors until June 1, so remember to carry one with you. On public transportation, you will need to wear a high-quality mask (such as an N95/FFP2). It is important to note that you risk a fine for not wearing a mask. Additionally, taxis are limited to three passengers apart from the driver, unless they are from the same family.
