Greece Visa from Dubai: Updated Guide for UAE Residents

Planning a trip to Greece from Dubai? Here’s something new: As of this year, the Greek Embassy has simplified its online visa appointment system, making it quicker for UAE residents to schedule their Greece visa appointment in Dubai. Whether it’s for tourism, business, or family visits, the process is more streamlined than ever.

Many UAE residents are applying for the Greece visa from Dubai because of VFS Global’s smooth online process. This guide explains everything clearly, from eligibility and required documents to how to book your appointment and how long it takes to get your visa.

Who Can Apply for a Greece Visa in UAE?

Anyone with a valid UAE residence visa can apply for a visa for Greece from UAE. Greece is part of the Schengen Zone, so a valid Greece visa also allows travel to other Schengen countries.

• UAE Nationals: Emirati citizens do not need a visa to travel to Greece for short stays (up to 90 days) within 180 days.
• UAE Residents (Expats): All expatriates living in the UAE, including Indian, Filipino, Pakistani, Egyptian, and other nationalities, must apply for a Greece Schengen visa before traveling.

Your UAE residence visa should be valid for at least 3 months beyond your travel date, and your passport should have a minimum of 6 months’ validity.

Types of Greece Visa

1. Tourist Visa

For those visiting Greece for holidays, sightseeing, or to meet friends and family. This visa is valid for short stays (up to 90 days).

2. Business Visa

For travelers attending work meetings, exhibitions, or events. Requires an invitation letter from the Greek company or organization.

3. Student Visa

If you’ve been accepted into a university or training program in Greece, you’ll need a student visa supported by an admission letter.

4. Work Visa

For UAE residents who have a job offer in Greece. This is a long-term national visa and requires prior approval from Greek authorities.

5. Family Visit Visa

Issued to individuals traveling to visit immediate family members living in Greece.

6. Transit Visa

Required for travelers passing through a Greek airport en route to another country.

Process for Applying for a Greece Visa from Dubai

If you’re wondering how to get a Greece visa from Dubai, the process is simple. Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Complete the Visa Application Online

Visit the official VFS Global website and fill out the Greece visa application form. Make sure all details match your passport exactly.

Step 2: Book Your Appointment

Once you’ve completed the application, schedule your Greece visa appointment Dubai online. You can select your preferred date and time for submission. Appointments are required for all visa types.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

Gather all documents according to your visa type. (See the checklist below.) Having everything ready in advance ensures faster processing.

Step 4: Visit the Visa Centre

On your appointment day, go to the VFS Global Greece Visa Application Centre in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Bring your documents, pay the visa fee, and provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).

Step 5: Pay the Visa Fee

The standard Greece visa fee is around 360- 380 AED for adults and 180 AED for children aged 6 - 12. Payments can be made in cash or by card.

Step 6: Track Your Application

You can check the status of your Greece visa in Dubai online using the reference number from your receipt.

Step 7: Collect Your Passport

Once your visa is processed, you’ll receive an SMS or email notification. You can pick up your passport in person or opt for courier delivery.

Documents Required for Greece Visa from Dubai

• Valid passport (issued within the last 10 years, at least 6 months validity, and 2 blank pages)
• Valid UAE residence visa (minimum 3 months validity beyond return date)
• Completed and signed visa application form
• Two recent passport-size photos (white background)
• Travel itinerary and flight booking (round trip)
• Proof of accommodation – hotel booking or invitation letter from host in Greece
• Proof of financial means – recent bank statement for the last 3 months
• Travel medical insurance
• Cover letter explaining the purpose of the visit
• No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the employer or sponsor
• For a business visa: an invitation letter from a Greek company
• For a student visa: an admission or enrollment letter from the institution
• For family visa: proof of relationship and sponsor documents

Make sure all documents are printed clearly and kept in order. Submitting incomplete or unclear documents can delay the process.

Greece Visa Processing Time

The average Greece visa processing time is 10 to 15 working days. However, during busy travel periods (like summer or holidays), it can take slightly longer.

If you’re applying for a work or student visa, allow 4 to 6 weeks for approval since these require additional checks by the Greek Embassy.

To avoid last-minute issues, it’s recommended to apply at least 3 – 4 weeks before your planned travel date.

FAQs