United States Visa RequirementsFor Greece passport holders
Greek passport holders can travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) for up to 90 days. An ESTA authorization ($21) is required before travel.
Greece passport holders must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before traveling to United States.
Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before your trip. The fee is $21 USD (a $4 travel promotion fee plus a $17 authorization fee), payable by credit or debit card. Most applications are approved instantly, but allow up to 72 hours. Your ESTA is valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first, and covers multiple trips. ESTA does not guarantee entry: a CBP officer makes the final decision at the port of entry.
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Greece to United States: What You Need to Know
Greece joined the US Visa Waiver Program in 2022, a long-awaited development that ended a years-long effort by the Greek government to secure VWP status for its citizens. Greece and the United States share exceptionally close ties: the Greek-American diaspora is one of the largest and most influential in the US, with an estimated 1.3 million Greek-Americans contributing to US culture, politics, and business. Greek communities thrive in New York, Chicago, Boston, and Tarpon Springs, Florida. Athens International Airport (ATH) connects to US gateways via European hubs. Greek nationals holding a non-VWP second passport must use their Greek passport when applying for ESTA.
How to Get There
American Airlines flies nonstop from Athens (ATH) to New York (JFK) and Philadelphia (PHL). Delta also serves ATH-JFK. For other US cities, connections via Frankfurt, Amsterdam, London, or Paris offer convenient options on Lufthansa, KLM, British Airways, and Air France.
Money & Banking
The US uses the US Dollar (USD). Cards are accepted everywhere. Tipping is non-negotiable in the US: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 at bars, a few dollars for taxi drivers and hotel housekeeping. In Greece, a small tip is appreciated but not obligatory; in the US, service workers rely on tips as part of their income. Carry some cash for small purchases and street food.
Practical Tips
Apply for ESTA at least 72 hours before your flight. Many Greek-Americans invite family to visit: note that visiting relatives does not extend your 90-day limit. Carry an invitation letter and proof of accommodation if staying with family. Do not overstay 90 days: the consequences are serious and include potential lifetime VWP revocation. US customs may ask about your local contacts and itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Greek citizens need a visa to visit the United States?
No. Greece joined the US Visa Waiver Program in 2022. Greek passport holders can visit the US for up to 90 days without a visa, but must obtain an ESTA authorization before travel.
How do Greek citizens apply for ESTA?
Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Complete the online form, pay $21, and receive authorization, usually within minutes. Apply at least 72 hours before departure.
How long can Greeks stay in the United States on ESTA?
Up to 90 days per visit. The stay cannot be extended while in the US on VWP status.
What airlines fly nonstop from Greece to the United States?
American Airlines flies nonstop from Athens (ATH) to New York (JFK) and Philadelphia (PHL). Delta also serves ATH-JFK. For other US cities, connections via Frankfurt, Amsterdam, or London are available.
Can Greek citizens work in the United States on ESTA?
No. ESTA is for tourism, transit, and business meetings only. Paid employment requires a US work visa.
Does ESTA guarantee entry to the United States?
No. An approved ESTA allows boarding; a US CBP officer makes the final admission decision at the port of entry.
What happens if a Greek citizen overstays 90 days in the United States?
Overstaying is a serious immigration violation. Consequences include removal, permanent VWP ineligibility, and difficulties obtaining future US visas.
Can Greek-Americans visiting family use ESTA for longer than 90 days?
No. Visiting family does not extend the 90-day VWP limit. To stay longer, you must apply for a US visa (such as a B-2 visitor visa) before traveling.