Negative Covid-19 Rapid Tests Now Accepted for Entry in Greece

The Greek Tourism Ministry on Friday announced that Greece will permit entry for travelers who present negative rapid antigen tests on arrival, as proof that they are not infected with the coronavirus (Covid-19).

Greece until now was only accepting negative PCR tests (performed within 72 hours before flights) among its entry requirements.

Effective immediately, travelers who choose to present a negative rapid antigen test upon arrival must take the test at an authorized laboratory within 48 hours before their flight to Greece.

The negative rapid test result must be in English, French, German, Italian, Spanish or Russian. It is noted that name on the test result must match the name on the traveler’s passport.

It is reminded that other acceptable documents accepted for entry to Greece are one of the following:

– a vaccination certificate
– proof that the traveler was tested positive with Covid-19 in the past 2 to 9 months (positive PCR/antigen test result or medical certificate)
– a Digital COVID Certificate in digital or print.

Also, to enter Greece, all travelers must fill out the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) one day before travel.

For further details on the entry requirements, press here.

No tests for children under 12 years old

The Tourism Ministry also announced that the Covid-19 testing requirement for entry in the country will be in force for children aged 12 and above (it was previously mandatory for children over 6) in accordance with the recommendations of the European Union.

The aforementioned updates concern the entry requirements for citizens from the countries that Greece currently allows visitors from: EU & Schengen Area countries, Albania, Australia, Northern Macedonia, United Arab Emirates, United States of America, United Kingdom, Japan, Israel, Canada, Belarus, Lebanon, Bahrain, New Zealand, South Korea, Qatar, China, Kuwait, Ukraine, Rwanda, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Thailand, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Montenegro (permanent residents from Montenegro are allowed to enter Greece strictly with a COVID-19 vaccination certificate and a negative PCR test taken no more than 72 hours before travel.)

For detailed information on rules and requirements for entering Greece, press here.

“The purpose of all safety protocols is to facilitate travelers who wish to visit our country, along with the constant and absolute care for the health safety of both of tourists and Greek citizens,” the ministry said.