Travelling to Greece from the UAE is simple, but visa rules depend entirely on your nationality. While UAE citizens enjoy visa-free entry, most expatriates must apply for a Greece visa for UAE residents before travelling. This guide explains who needs a visa, the documents required, how to apply through VFS Global, processing times, and essential tips for a smooth application.
- Who needs a visa to visit Greece from the UAE
- Types of Greece visa for UAE residents
- Where and how to apply from the UAE
- Step-by-step application process
- Documents required for a Greece visa from the UAE
- Travel insurance requirements
- Visa fees and processing times
- Special cases for UAE residents
- If your Greece visa is approved
- If your visa is refused
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
Who needs a visa to visit Greece from the UAE
Before planning your trip, it’s important to understand whether you require a visa based on your passport nationality.
First thing, UAE passport holders do not need a visa to enter Greece or any other Schengen country. They are allowed stays of up to 90 days within 180 days for tourism, business, or short family visits.
Even with visa-free access, UAE citizens are advised to carry:
- Valid UAE passport
- Travel insurance covering the stay
- Proof of accommodation
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of sufficient funds
Border officers may request these documents upon arrival.
Important for 2026
From late 2026, UAE citizens will also require ETIAS, a digital pre-travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors. ETIAS is not a visa, but an online security check required before entering the Schengen Area.
UAE residents holding non-UAE passports
Most expatriates in the UAE will need a Schengen Type C visa to visit Greece. This includes common nationalities such as Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Egyptian, Jordanian, and others.
Your UAE residency does not provide visa-free access. Entry rules depend solely on your passport’s nationality.
To apply successfully, your UAE residence visa must be:
- Valid for at least three months after your return date, and
- Not under renewal at the time of application
Types of Greece visa for UAE residents
Each visa category in Greece has its own requirements and benefits for UAE residents. Choose the correct type based on your purpose and length of stay.
Short-Stay Schengen Visa (Type C)
This is the most common visa for UAE residents visiting Greece for:
- Tourism
- Visiting family or friends
- Business trips or meetings
Key features
- Allows stays up to 90 days within 180 days
- Can be issued as a single- or multiple-entry
- Valid across all 27 Schengen countries, not just Greece
Long-Stay National Visa (Type D)
Required for stays exceeding 90 days, typically for:
- Employment
- Studies
- Family reunification
- Long-term residence
Type D visas follow Greek national laws and may require interviews or additional approvals.
Airport Transit Visa (Type A)
Only certain nationalities require a transit visa, even if they remain airside during a layover. Most UAE residents do not need this unless their passport is on the official Greek transit visa list.
Where and how to apply from the UAE
All Greece visa applications are submitted through VFS Global, which collects documents, biometrics and forwards the file to the Greek Consulate for a decision. Your emirate of residence on your Emirates ID determines where you must apply.
Application centre based on the emirate
Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain: Apply at VFS Global Greece – Dubai
Location
It is located on the Ground and First Floor, Phase 5- Horus – WAFI Mall – Umm Hurair Second – Dubai
Abu Dhabi and Al Ain: Apply at VFS Global Greece – Abu Dhabi
Location
It is located in Central Market Project – Khalifa Bin Zayed The First St – Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi
Contact information for both (Dubai and Abu Dhabi)
- Phone: +971 4 205 5666
- Greece Visa Email: info.greeceuae@vfshelpline.com
- Operating Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday
Understanding the “main destination” rule
You must apply for your Schengen visa through Greece if:
- Greece is where you will spend most nights
- Greece is your first point of entry, and your stay in each Schengen country is equal
Applying through the correct country ensures compliance with Schengen regulations.
Step-by-step application process
Here is a clear breakdown of how to apply for a Greece visa as a UAE resident.
1. Check whether you need a visa
Your passport nationality is what matters.
- UAE citizens: visa-exempt
- Most expatriates require a Type C Schengen visa
2. Book your appointment at VFS Global
Appointments are made online only. During holidays, Eid, and the summer months, slots fill quickly, so early booking is recommended.
3. Complete the Schengen visa application form
You can complete the form in English or Greek. Any inconsistency may lead to delays. So ensure:
- Names match your passport
- Dates match your itinerary and bookings
- All fields are accurate
4. Gather all required documents
VFS publishes updated checklists for tourism, business, and family visits.
5. Attend your VFS appointment
At the centre you will:
- Submit your documents in the required order
- Provide biometrics (unless exempt within 59 months)
- Pay visa and service fees
6. Track your application
Use your receipt number on the VFS portal. Updates may also come via SMS or email.
7. Collect your passport
Once the Greek Consulate finalises your case, VFS will notify you. You may collect your passport in person or request courier delivery.
Documents required for a Greece visa from the UAE
Below is the verified, updated, and streamlined checklist.
Mandatory documents
- Completed and signed the visa application form
- Passport valid for at least 3 months beyond the return date with two blank pages
- UAE residence visa valid for a minimum of 3 months after return
- Recent biometric passport photos (Schengen format)
- Confirmed flight booking or itinerary
- Proof of accommodation (hotel, Airbnb, or invitation letter)
- Travel insurance with €30,000 minimum coverage
- Personal bank statements (3–6 months, stamped)
- Employment letter or NOC from employer/sponsor
- Visa fee receipt
Financial documents
Bank statements must:
- Be stamped
- Show regular income
- Demonstrate sufficient funds for the trip
Additional accepted documents:
- Salary certificate
- Employment contract
- Credit card statements
- Proof of savings or fixed deposits
Documents for students
- Enrollment letter
- NOC from school or university
- Sponsor’s financial proof (if applicable)
Documents for minors
- Birth certificate
- Consent letter from parent(s)
- Copies of parents’ passports and Emirates IDs
- Custody documents, if relevant
Travel insurance requirements
Insurance is one of the strictest requirements, and applications are often rejected if coverage is incorrect. To be accepted for a Greece Schengen visa, travel insurance must:
- Cover at least €30,000 in medical expenses
- Be valid in all Schengen countries
- Cover the entire stay with 1–2 buffer days
- Display the applicant’s full name, policy number, start and end dates
Visa fees and processing times
A quick overview of current costs and timelines.
Visa fees
VFS does not influence approval decisions.
- Standard Schengen visa: approx. AED 320
- VFS service fee applies separately
- Optional paid services:
- Premium lounge
- Courier passport return
- SMS updates
Processing times
There is no official fast-track option, although the consulate may prioritise some cases.
- Standard: 10–15 working days
- Peak seasons may take longer
- You may apply up to 6 months before your travel date
Special cases for UAE residents
Certain nationalities face additional scrutiny based on documentation or financial history.
Indian nationals
The consulate typically focuses on:
- Strong bank statements
- Employment stability
- Clear travel itinerary
Pakistani nationals
Applications are usually reviewed with emphasis on:
- NOC and sponsor documentation
- Financial consistency
- Previous travel history
Filipino nationals
Standard Schengen rules apply. Employment records, tenancy contracts, and financial proof are reviewed carefully.
Residents with newly issued UAE visas
Avoid applying during residency renewal periods. Your UAE residence visa must remain valid for 3 months beyond return.
If your Greece visa is approved
Review your visa sticker carefully. Check:
- Validity dates
- Allowed number of days
- Single or multiple entry
- Correct passport details
Your visa allows travel to all Schengen countries, provided Greece is your main destination.
Border officers may still ask for:
- Accommodation proof
- Insurance
- Proof of funds
- Return ticket
If your visa is refused
Common reasons include:
- Insufficient bank balance
- Missing or inconsistent documents
- Weak ties to the UAE
- Unclear purpose of travel
- Past overstays or poor travel history
You may:
- Correct the issues and reapply, or
- File an appeal depending on the refusal category
Key takeaways
UAE citizens can visit Greece visa-free for up to 90 days, while most expatriates need a Greece visa for UAE residents, typically a Schengen Type C visa, applied for through VFS Global. A complete set of documents, a valid UAE residency, proof of funds, and Schengen-compliant insurance are essential for approval.
Processing typically takes 10–15 working days, and travellers are encouraged to apply early. A Greece Schengen visa allows travel across the Schengen Area, but border officers may still ask for supporting documents upon arrival.
FAQs
UAE citizens can enter Greece visa-free for short stays.
It is typically 10–15 working days.
Yes, with a minimum of €30,000 coverage.
Yes, as long as they meet all the document and financial requirements.
Yes, provided Greece is your main destination or first entry.
It must be valid for at least 3 months after your return.
Generally no. Only your documents should be brought.
