ESTA for Greek Citizens

Greece joined the Visa Waiver Program in 2010, which currently enables citizens of Greece to apply for an ESTA rather than the more complicated process of applying for US visa.

Benefits of Applying for ESTA for Greek Citizens

Greek citizens are able to enjoy a much easier process of obtaining travel authorisation for a visit to the US that is for tourism, business, medical or transit purposes. Whilst a US Visa can take several weeks to process, the ESTA can be processed in less than a day. However, this is not always the case, so it is recommended that applicants leave at least 72 hours before they travel when they apply for their ESTA.

Another key benefit of applying for an ESTA rather than a US visa is that it is cheaper and you do not have to attend an interview at the US embassy. When an ESTA is approved it is valid for two years or up until the passport it is linked to expires. During that period of validity, the ESTA can be used for multiple visits to the US.

The whole application process is completed online with confirmation being sent by email once the application has been submitted and the application fee paid.

How Greek Citizens Can Apply for ESTA

Greek citizens can easily apply for an ESTA by completing the online form from the website. They will be required to answer several sets of questions, such as name, address, date of birth and details regarding their parents. They will also need to answer some questions related to any criminal activity, medical history and whether they have visited certain countries.

Citizens of Greece simply need to have a biometric passport, a valid email address and a card that they can make the application fee payment with. Once they have completed all of the questions including the passport information, applicants should check all of the details they provided for any mistakes. Any errors on the application are likely to result in it getting declined, so it should be checked several times before submitting the form.

Visa Waiver Programme (VWP)

The Visa Waiver Programme (VWS) enables persons from certain countries to visit the US for business, medical, or tourist trips. Currently, this program includes 40 countries. A stay under this program enables a visit that cannot last longer than 90 days. To be eligible for this program, tourists must get an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Traveling Under the Visa Waiver Programme: Passport Requirements for Greek Citizens

To travel under the VWP, Greek citizens must have a valid passport that meets specific standards. Their passport must be an e-passport or a biometric passport with an embedded chip that stores personal information.

It must also have an expiration date that is at least six months after the tourists' admission into the country, ensuring its validity during the visit.

How Long Is ESTA Valid For?

The validity of an ESTA is two years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever occurs first. It is important to check that the passport is valid and current, with a period of at least six months beyond the proposed end date of the journey or two years precisely.

When to Apply for a New ESTA?

If any of the following conditions apply, Greek citizens must apply for a new ESTA:

How Long Does It Take to Process the US ESTA?

The processing time of the ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) application for Greek nationals can differ. Generally, applications are processed in under 20 minutes, but they could take as long as 72 hours in some cases. However, it is suggested to submit an ESTA application no less than 72 hours ahead of your journey to America.

What to do if ESTA is Declined

If the ESTA does get declined, the applicant may still be able to obtain travel authorisation to go to the US. If there is a possibility that there was a mistake on the original application, they can try resubmitting a second application, paying the fee again. The other alternative is to apply for US visa by arranging an interview at the US embassy.

US Embassy Address in Greece

U.S. Embassy Greece
91 Vasilisis Sophias Ave
10160 Athens, Greece

What Is the Difference Between an ESTA and a US Visa?

There are important differences between an ESTA and a visa.

A completed online application is required to receive an ESTA. In comparison, a US visa application needs you to fill out a DS-160 form and attend an embassy appointment in your home country.

Additionally, a US visa is handled over several weeks with erratic timetables that may or may not align with your vacation plans. An accepted U.S. visa offers you some rights that ESTA applicants do not have. As a result, authorised ESTA applicants are not assured entrance into the US. US Customs and Border Protection at the border will finally evaluate the admission of Greek residents going to the US with an ESTA.

Under What Circumstances Should Greek Citizens Apply for a US Visa Instead of an ESTA?

In certain cases, citizens of Greece need a US visa instead of an ESTA.

People who are going to the U.S. for more than 90 days for reasons such as study, work, or residence have to obtain a visa. As well, obtaining a visa is essential if their plan does not involve simply touring, transacting affairs, or undertaking commercial activities.

Additionally, anyone who has been banned from gaining entry through ESTA or holds prior criminal charges needs to apply for a US visa.

Benefits of ESTA for Greek Citizens:

Do Greek Nationals Have to Apply for an ESTA on Behalf of Their Children?

Every person, including minors, must have an approved ESTA. A parent or legal guardian can apply for ESTA on behalf of their child.

Do Dual Citizens of the United States or Canada Need an ESTA?

No, a Greek individual with double citizenship in the US or Canada is not required to submit an ESTA or a visa. Before visitors enter the US, CBP recommends that they utilize their American or Canadian passports.

ESTA Application: What You Need to Know

Learn More About ESTA Travel Approval

Before beginning your application, you may get additional information by visiting the FAQ and ESTA requirements pages.