visa type country
GR
business visa

Greece Business Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time

The Greece Business Visa is a short-stay Schengen visa (Type C) designed for individuals travelling to Greece for professional purposes. This includes attending corporate meetings, signing contracts, participating in trade fairs, or engaging in business consultations. It is important to note that this visa does not serve as a work permit; you cannot enter the Greek labour market or be directly employed by a Greek firm using this document. As Greece is a member of the Schengen Area, this visa allows for seamless travel between any of the member states for the duration of its validity. Applicants must demonstrate their professional intent and prove they have the financial means to support themselves during their stay. While the process is standardised, requirements can vary slightly based on your country of residence and nationality. Please note that visa policies are subject to change without notice. We strongly recommend verifying all requirements with the nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate before submitting your application.

Key highlights

  • Short-stay Schengen visa for business purposes
  • Valid for meetings, conferences, and networking
  • Allows travel throughout the Schengen Area
  • Maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period
  • Requires a formal invitation from a Greek entity
  • Standardised fee for most adult applicants
  • Transparent application process via external service providers

Processing time

15-45 calendar days

Processing times can increase during peak summer travel seasons or if additional documentation is requested.

Estimated cost

~$120 - $150

  • Schengen Visa Fee (Adults)€80 (approx. $87)
  • Schengen Visa Fee (Children 6-12)€40 (approx. $44)
  • Service Provider Convenience FeeVaries by provider

Requirements

  • Proof of professional ties to the home country (employment contract or business license)
  • Clear invitation letter from a Greek company or organisation
  • Proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay
  • No entry bans on the Schengen Information System (SIS)
  • No threat to public policy, internal security, or public health
  • Proof of accommodation for the entire duration of the trip
  • Valid travel medical insurance covering all Schengen countries
  • Evidence of intent to return to the home country (e.g., return flight tickets)

Documents you'll need

  • Completed and signed Schengen Visa application form
  • Valid passport with at least two blank pages and 3 months validity beyond stay
  • Two recent passport-sized biometric photographs
  • Formal Invitation Letter from the Greek host company
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or host declaration)
  • Round-trip flight itinerary or flight reservation
  • Employer letter stating the purpose and duration of the business trip
  • Travel Medical Insurance with minimum €30,000 coverage
  • Proof of financial means (e.g., 3 months of bank statements)

How to apply, step by step

  1. 1

    Check Eligibility and Jurisdiction

    Determine if you require a visa based on your nationality and check which Greek consulate or visa centre handles applications for your region.

  2. 2

    Prepare Documentation

    Accurately complete the Schengen Visa application form and gather all supporting documents, including the Greek invitation letter.

  3. 3

    Book an Appointment

    Schedule an interview and biometric data collection appointment at the Greek Consulate or an authorised visa application centre (like VFS Global or Global Visa Center World).

  4. 4

    Submit Application and Biometrics

    Attend your appointment to submit your documents and pay the visa fee. Many centres require biometric data (fingerprints) if not provided in the last 59 months.

  5. 5

    Visa Processing

    Wait for the processing period, during which the consulate may contact you for further information or an additional interview.

  6. 6

    Collect Your Passport

    Once a decision is reached, you will be notified to collect your passport. Check the visa sticker immediately for any errors.

Tips to avoid refusal

  • Ensure your invitation letter is signed by the Greek company and clearly states the purpose of your visit.
  • Provide clear bank statements from the last three months; avoid sudden, unexplained large deposits.
  • Double-check that your passport has at least two blank pages and is valid for three months after your intended departure.
  • Do not book non-refundable flights until the visa is granted; a flight reservation or itinerary is usually sufficient.
  • Ensure your travel insurance policy specifically mentions 'Schengen Area' or 'Worldwide' coverage.
  • Be consistent in your application form; the dates on your itinerary must match your insurance and hotel bookings.

Frequently asked questions

Related visa guides

Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.