Greece Travel Update: COVID-19 Tests No Longer Required from European Vaccine Certificate Holders
The pre-arrival testing requirement for travelers aged 5 and older was introduced by the Greek authorities in late December 2021 amid the emergence of the Omicron variant. Originally, it was planned to remain in place until January 10th, but due to the dynamic coronavirus situation, the country extended it further.
Starting from February 7th, fully vaccinated travelers no longer need to provide a negative COVID-19 test if they have a valid European Vaccine Certificate.
Greece, as the country largely banking on the tourism sector, accounting for about a quarter of its economy, is ready to welcome international tourists and facilitate their entry to the country.
According to the Greek Tourism Minister, Vassilis Kikilias, the country is already preparing to welcome many tourists from the beginning of March. This year, the Greek authorities expect an all-time record in cruise ship arrivals too.
Content:
EU Digital Covid Certificate
EU Digital Covid Certificate remains valid for 9 months from the date of receiving the last dose of the primary COVID-19 vaccination (without a booster shot).
According to the statement of the European Commission, member states should apply the same standard acceptance period for travel purposes within the European Union. The rules apply only to vaccination certificates, excluding booster doses.
In the meantime, Greek nationals who have received a two-dose COVID-19 vaccination will need to receive a booster shot, as well those who received a single-dose vaccine seven months after the last shot to extend the validity of their vaccination certificates by one year. Valid certificates are essential in order to be allowed to restaurants, bars, and other public places.
Travelers eligible for test-free entry to Greece
Starting from February 7th, the following travelers will be eligible to enter Greece test-free:
- EU nationals
- Schengen Zone member states
- 33 non-EU countries participating in the EU digital COVID Certificate system, including:
- Albania
- Andorra
- Armenia
- Cabo Verde
- El Salvador
- Faroe Islands
- Georgia
- Israel
- Iceland
- Lebanon
- Liechtenstein
- Moldova
- Monaco
- Montenegro
- Morocco
- New Zealand
- North Macedonia
- Norway
- Panama
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Singapore
- Switzerland
- Taiwan
- Thailand
- Tunisia
- Togo
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United Kingdom and the Crown Dependencies (Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man)
- Uruguay
- The Vatican
Important note: All other arrivals to Greece (including children aged more than 5) not having an EU Digital COVID Certificate, no matter their nationality, vaccination status, or recovery proof, must submit a negative PCR test result taken within 72 hours of travel. Alternatively, it may be a rapid antigen test taken within 24 hours of travel.
Greek Passenger Locator Form
All travelers must also remember to fill out the obligatory Passenger Locator Form the day before the arrival time in Greece (according to the Greek time zone), at the latest.
Greek PLF is an online health declaration that includes the basic personal and travel details of a person entering Greece.
Completed health declaration facilitates the Greek authorities to control the coronavirus spread and ensure safety both of international travelers as well as Greek nationals.
Details of your flight may change up to 24 hours of your arrival in Greece. That is why do not forget to monitor all changes and update your data in the PLF, if necessary.
