greece business visa

Greece Business Visa for Indian Passport Holders

Greece Business Visa for Indian Citizens: Summary

  • Visa Type: National Visa (Type D) for Business Purposes

  • Stay Duration: Up to 3 months (90 days) within a 6-month period

  • Key Requirements:

    • Valid Indian Passport
    • Invitation Letter from Greek Company
    • Proof of Financial Means (≈ ₹1.5-2 lakhs for stay duration)
    • Health and Travel Insurance (€30,000 coverage)

  • Application Process:

    • Gather documents
    • Fill and submit application (in person or through VAC)
    • Pay fees (€180 + VAC service fee, if applicable)
    • Provide biometric data (first-time applicants)

  • Processing Time: Typically 6-12 working days

  • Validity: Up to 5 years, depending on the Greek Embassy/Consulate's discretion

  • Schengen Policy: Allows travel to other Schengen countries, with Greece as the primary destination.

 

Table of Contents

  1. Overview of Greece Business Visa
  2. Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens
  3. Detailed List of Required Documents
  4. Step-by-Step Application Process
  5. Fees Associated with the Application
  6. Processing Time and Status Tracking
  7. Collection of Passport and Visa
  8. Important Notes and Considerations
  9. Schengen Visa Policy and Implications
  10. Biometric Data Requirements
  11. Visa Rejection and Reapplication
  12. Contact Information for Greek Embassy/Consulate and VACs in India
  13. Pre-Travel Checklist for India to Greece

1. Introduction of Greece Business Visa

greece business visa

The Greece Business Visa (National Visa - Type D) is designed for Indian citizens visiting Greece for business purposes, including meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or establishing business relationships. It allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 6-month period from the date of first entry into the Schengen Area. The visa's validity typically ranges from 6 months to 5 years, depending on the discretion of the Greek Embassy or Consulate.

2. Eligibility Criteria for Indian Citizens

  • Valid Travel Document: Indian passport with at least two blank pages, valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay in Greece.

  • Legitimate Business Purpose: Clear intention to engage in business activities in Greece.

  • Sufficient Funds: Evidence of financial means to support the stay in Greece.

  • Health and Travel Insurance: Coverage for the entire Schengen Area.

  • No Threat to Public Policy: Applicants must not pose a threat to public health, security, or international relations.

3. Detailed List of Required Documents

A. Travel Documents

  • Valid Indian Passport: With a minimum validity of 3 months beyond the planned departure date from Greece.
  • Previous Passports (if applicable): To show previous travel history.
  • Copies of Passport Pages: Containing personal data and any visas.

B. Visa Application

  • Filled and Signed Application Form: Downloaded from the official Greek Embassy/Consulate website or obtained from a Visa Application Center (VAC).
  • Recent Photographs: 2-3 passport-sized, with a white background, not older than 6 months.

C. Business Related Documents

  • Invitation Letter from the Greek Company:

    • Company details (name, address, tax ID).
    • Applicant’s details (name, position, passport number).
    • Purpose and exact dates of the visit.
    • Statement on who will cover living expenses in Greece.

  • Indian Company Documents:

    • Registration Certificate.
    • Memorandum of Association (MOA) and Articles of Association (AOA).
    • Income Tax Returns (ITR) for the last 3 years or Form 16.
    • Bank Statement showing transactions for the last 6 months, with a minimum balance (approximately ₹1.5 lakhs to ₹2 lakhs, depending on the stay duration).

D. Financial Documents

  • Proof of Financial Means:
    • Bank statement (as mentioned above).
    • Traveller’s cheques (if applicable).

  • Sponsorship Letter (if the Greek company is covering expenses).

 

E. Health and Travel Insurance

  • Medical Insurance Policy: Covering the entire Schengen Area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000.

F. Additional Requirements

  • Flight Itinerary: Confirmed return or onward ticket.
  • Hotel Booking or Proof of Accommodation in Greece.
  • Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): May be requested in certain cases.

4. Step-by-Step Application Process

Step 1: Gather All Documents

 

  • Checklist Reference: Ensure you have all documents as outlined in the Detailed List of Required Documents (Section 3 of this guide):

    • Travel Documents

    • Visa Application

    • Business Related Documents

    • Financial Documents

    • Health and Travel Insurance

    • Additional Requirements

  • Verification:

    • Double-check each document for completeness and accuracy.

    • Ensure all documents are either in English or Greek. If not, provide certified translations.

    • Make photocopies of all original documents for your records.

  • Special Considerations:

    • If any document is missing, identify the steps to obtain it and the timeframe required.

    • For documents that need to be issued by third parties (e.g., invitation letter from the Greek company), allow sufficient time for their processing.

 

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

 

  • Obtaining the Form:

    • Download: From the official website of the Greek Embassy in India or the Consulate General of Greece in Mumbai.

    • Collection in Person: From the Greek Embassy, Consulate, or an authorized Visa Application Center (VAC).

  • Filling the Form:

    • Accuracy: Ensure all information matches your passport and other documents.

    • Completeness: Fill out all required fields. If a section does not apply, indicate "N/A" (Not Applicable).

    • Legibility: Use block letters or print clearly.

  • Signing and Dating:

    • Signature: Sign the form in the designated area. The signature must match the one in your passport.

    • Date: Enter the current date or the date you plan to submit your application.

  • Additional Pages or Annexes:

    • If you need more space for any answer, attach a separate sheet with your name, passport number, and the question number.

    • Ensure these additional pages are signed and dated.

 

Step 3: Submit Your Application

A. In Person: At the Greek Embassy, Consulate, or an Authorized VAC

 

  • Location:

    • Greek Embassy in New Delhi: For residents of certain states (check the embassy's website for jurisdiction details).

    • Consulate General of Greece in Mumbai: Serves residents of Western and Southern India.

    • Authorized VACs: Located in major cities across India.

  • Submission Process:

    • Arrival and Waiting: Reach the submission center during operational hours. Be prepared to wait.

    • Document Verification: A representative will check your documents for completeness and accuracy.

    • Query Resolution: Address any questions or concerns raised by the representative.

  • Acknowledgement Receipt: Receive a receipt acknowledging your application submission.

  • Tips for In-Person Submission:

    • Arrive early to avoid long queues.

    • Ensure all documents are in order to avoid re-submission.

 

B. Through a Registered Agent (If You Cannot Appear in Person)

 

  • Authorization:

    • Power of Attorney (POA): Grant a registered agent the power to act on your behalf.

    • Authorization Letter: Specify the agent's name, your relationship, and the scope of authorization.

  • Agent's Responsibilities:

    • Submit the application on your behalf.

    • Provide biometric data (if required).

    • Collect the passport with the visa (if authorized to do so).

  • Choosing a Registered Agent:

    • Officially Recognized Agents: Check with the Greek Embassy/Consulate or VAC for a list of recognized agents.

    • Service Agreement: Clearly outline the services, costs, and terms with the agent.

 

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

A. Visa Fee

  • Current Fee for Adults: €180 (subject to change; check the latest fee on the Greek Embassy/Consulate's website).

  • Fee for Children:

    • 6-11 Years: €60.

    • Under 6 Years: Free.

  • Payment Methods:

    • Cash: At the Embassy, Consulate, or VAC (if accepted).

    • Credit/Debit Card: If the submission center accepts card payments.

    • Bank Draft/Cheque: In favor of the Greek Embassy/Consulate (check if this method is accepted).

 

B. Service Fee (VAC)

  • Applicability: If submitting your application through an authorized VAC.

  • Fee Amount: Varies by VAC; check with the specific center for their service charge.

  • Payment Methods: As per the VAC's accepted payment modes.

 

Step 5: Provide Biometric Data (If First-Time Applicant)

 

  • Biometric Requirements:

    • Fingerprints: All ten fingers.

    • Facial Image: A digital photograph.

  • Collection Process:

    • Preparation: Ensure your fingers are clean and dry.

    • Fingerprint Scanning: A quick, painless process.

    • Facial Image Capture: Look straight into the camera with a neutral expression.

  • Exemptions:

    • Children Under 12: Not required to provide fingerprints.

    • Persons with Physical Limitations: Alternative arrangements may be made; inform the application center in advance.

    • Heads of State, Government, and Their Spouses: Exempt from biometric data collection.

5. Photo Specification of Greece Business Visa

The photo specification of Greece business visa are as follows -

photo specification of greece business visa

  • Dimensions:  35mm X 45mm

  • Colour: Coloured

  • Head must occupy the central position

  • Must be recently captured - within last 3 months

  • Background: Solid, plain white or grey

  • 80% face coverage

  • Neutral facial expression

  • Glasses: Non-thick framed/prescription
     
  • Headgears - only for religious reasons

  • Facial hair - permitted

6. Fees Associated with the Application

  • Visa Application Fee: €180 (adults), €60 (children 6-11 years), Free (children under 6 years).

  • VAC Service Fee: Varies by center (if applicable).

  • Other Costs (Travel, Accommodation, etc.): As per individual arrangements.

7. Processing Time and Status Tracking

  • Typical Processing Time: 6-12 working days, but may vary.

  • Tracking Your Application:

    • Online: Through the VAC’s website (if service is provided).

    • Phone/Email: Contact the VAC or Embassy/Consulate directly.

8. Collection of Passport and Visa

  • In Person: If submitted directly to the Embassy/Consulate or VAC.

  • Through a Registered Agent: If authorized to collect on your behalf.

  • Check Your Visa: For any errors or discrepancies before leaving the collection point.

9. Schengen Visa Policy and Implications

  • Schengen Area: Comprises 26 European countries with a common visa policy.

  • Visa Validity: Valid for the entire Schengen Area, but the stay in other countries cannot exceed the stay in Greece.

  • Entry and Exit: First entry and longest stay must be in Greece for this visa.

10. Biometric Data Requirements

  • First-Time Applicants: Required to provide biometric data (fingerprints) at the application center.

  • Data Storage: Biometric data is stored in the Visa Information System (VIS) for 5 years.

11. Visa Rejection and Reapplication

  • Reasons for Rejection: Insufficient documentation, unclear purpose of stay, etc.

  • Reapplication:

    • Address the Rejection Reasons.

    • Submit a New Application with the required corrections/additions.

12. Contact Information for Greek Embassy/Consulate and VACs in India

  • Embassy of Greece in New Delhi:

    • Address: EP-32, Dr. S. Radha Krishnan Marg, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi 110021
    • Phone: +91 11 26880700, +91 11 26130220
    • Email: gremb.del@mfa.gr

  • Consulate General of Greece in Mumbai:

    • Address: 53, Anand Niketan, New Delhi 110021 (Jurisdiction includes Western and Southern India)
    • Phone: +91 22 22843666, +91 22 22841722
    • Email: grcon.bom@mfa.gr

  • Visa Application Centers (VACs):

    • Located in major Indian cities. Check the official website for addresses, phone numbers, and email IDs.

13. Pre-Travel Checklist for India to Greece

  • Valid Visa and Passport.

  • Confirmed Travel Itinerary.

  • Health and Travel Insurance Documents.

  • Accommodation Details in Greece.

  • Sufficient Euros for Initial Expenses.

  • Inform Your Bank of International Transactions.

  • Check the Weather Forecast for Greece.

 

Understand Basic Greek Phrases and Local Customs.

 

Need more clarity on the Greece business visa? Check out helpful resources below


Greece Visa Requirement
Greece Tourist Visa Requirement
Greece Work Visa Requirement
Greece Visit Visa Requirement
Greece Embassies and Consulates

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I extend my Greece Schengen business visa?

It is not possible to extend the Schengen business permit for Greece. Similar to other Schengen countries, these types of permits are non-extendable under normal conditions. However, in certain exceptions such as a Force Majeure or other humanitarian reasons that keep you from going back to the home country, you may be granted an extension. In all the other cases, you must leave Greece upon expiry. 

After expiring my Greece business visa, how long can I stay?

You are not allowed to stay for any extra period after your permit expires. The primary condition in which the permit is issued in the first place is that you leave upon the permitted period. Failure to do so is considered an offence. This can get you deported or even be banned from entering the country again.

What is the medical test for the Greek Schengen business visa?

There are no mandatory medical test requirements for this short term Schengen category. However, you are expected to submit medical travel insurance coverage up to at least 30000 Euros. Despite this, it is suggested that you get a medical checkup done before travelling to any foreign country to keep you, and the other people safe.

Can I convert my Greece business visa into a work permit?

No, you are not allowed to do so. The Schengen C category business permit is non-extendable and convertible. It also prohibits you from taking part in any work activities. As a result, you must go back to your home country and apply for a work permit from there.  

Can I travel to other Schengen or European Countries on a Greece Business Visa?

Yes, you are free to travel to other Schengen countries as long as you meet their immigration rules. However, if you possess an LTV type, you will only be allowed to visit the countries that are specifically mentioned on your sticker. Also, you are not allowed to enter all the European nations. You cannot enter European countries that are not a part of the Schengen.

 

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