Greece

Greece Student Visa Requirements 

When a foreign student plans to pursue education in Greece, they must obtain a student visa. This visa offers various privileges, permitting the holder to pursue their chosen course and explore the country. However, it’s crucial to note that possessing a visa doesn’t guarantee entry; if any issues arise with the permit or the individual, entry may be denied, necessitating a return to their home country.

How to Apply for Greece Student Visa?

To apply for a student visa to Greece, you must follow an offline process. Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria. The process entails:

1. Downloading the Greece student visa application form.
2. Completing the form accurately.
3. Gathering all required documents listed in the provided checklist.
4. Attaching recent photographs.
5. Submitting the application and documents to the Greek Embassy.
6. Paying the necessary fee upon submission.
7. Attending an interview if required.

When completing the application, ensure all information aligns with your passport and other documents. Any discrepancies or false information may lead to visa rejection, affecting future applications for Greece or other countries.

Eligibility for Greece Student Visa

Several criteria must be met when applying for the visa:

1. Confirmed admission to a Greek institution.
2. Application to the intended university or institution.
3. Documentary proof of confirmed admission.
4. Submission of verifiable educational and other documents.
5. Proof of previous highest education degree.
6. Meeting health requirements, including relevant medical tests.
7. Meeting character requirements, with genuine intentions for education.
8. Providing a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
9. Possession of sufficient funds to cover expenses.
10. Submission of bank statements or equivalent documents.
11. Evidence of financial stability from sponsors if applicable.

Greece Student Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

For Indian citizens, the necessary documents include:

1. Passport valid for at least 6 months from the intended travel date.
2. Completed visa application form.
3. Recent photographs meeting specifications.
4. Confirmed flight tickets.
5. Proof of accommodation (rent agreement, etc.).
6. Travel medical insurance covering one year.
7. Proof of sponsorship or scholarship.
8. Evidence of sufficient funds.

Ensure all documents are in order and meet the specified requirements to facilitate a smooth visa application process.

Photo Specifications

When providing photographs for your visa application, adhere to the following specifications:

• Quantity: Two copies must be provided.
• Dimensions: Each photo should measure 35mm X 45mm.
• Colour: Photos must be in colour.
• Composition: Ensure the head occupies the central position within the frame.
• Recentness: Photos must have been captured within the last three months.
• Background: Use a solid, plain white or grey background.
• Face Coverage: The face should cover approximately 80% of the photo.
• Expression: Maintain a neutral facial expression.
• Glasses: Non-thick framed glasses are permitted, including prescription glasses.
• Headgear: Headgear is allowed only for religious reasons.
• Facial Hair: Facial hair is permitted; however, ensure it does not obscure the facial features.

Greece Student Visa: Validity, Processing Time, Fees, and Post-Submission Guidelines

Visa Validity: The validity of a student visa for Greece is contingent upon the duration of the enrolled course. Extensions are possible if supported by a letter from the educational institution.

Processing Time: Typically, obtaining a Greece student visa takes around a couple of weeks. However, factors such as embassy workload and staff availability can extend the processing time up to 90 days.

Visa Fees: The fees for obtaining a Greece student visa vary based on factors like the number of entries, biometric charges, and service fees. Additionally, fluctuations in currency exchange rates may impact the total cost. Applicants are advised to verify the exact fee at the time of application.

Post-Submission Guidelines: After submitting the required documents:

• Inform the embassy or agency about any additional requirements or application errors.
• Notify the embassy/agency of any changes in circumstances, such as marital status or childbirth.
• Applicants can monitor the application status and processing progress.
• In case of changed plans, applicants can withdraw the application, though the visa fee is non-refundable.
• Upon submission and payment of fees, the visa will be dispatched to the registered address or can be collected from the embassy or Consular section.

Checking Visa Status: Applicants can check their student visa status by contacting the embassy directly. Alternatively, if applying through a visa agency, status updates may be available on their website or via phone inquiries.

Upon Receiving the Visa:

Before Travel:

• Note the visa expiry date and the allowed number of entries.
• Ensure timely entry into Greece within the visa’s validity period.
• Carry copies of passport and other travel documents.
• Secure health and travel insurance from a certified provider.

At the Border:

• Present documents for verification and obtain entry stamp on passport.
• Seek assistance from airport authorities if needed.
• Adhere to guidelines outlined in the visa copy.

Upon Entry into Greece:

• Abide by regulations applicable to non-Greek residents.
• Engage in permitted activities such as study, work, and tourism.
• Apply for any necessary extensions within the visa’s validity period.