Greece Visa RequirementsFor New Zealand passport holders
New Zealand citizens can visit Greece visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Greece is one of the Mediterranean's most iconic destinations, drawing NZ travellers to its ancient ruins, white-washed islands, and crystal-clear waters.
Great news! New Zealand passport holders can enter Greece without a visa for tourism or business purposes. You can stay up to 90 days.
No visa is required for NZ citizens for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period across Schengen. Athens International Airport (ATH) is the main hub. NZ passport holders use the non-EU lane or eGates. The 90-day limit is cumulative across all Schengen states. Island hopping by ferry does not require any additional documentation.
Greece is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
Valid New Zealand Passport
Must be valid for the duration of your stay and at least 3 months beyond intended departure from the Schengen Area.
Return or Onward Ticket
Proof of departure from Greece, such as a return flight booking or onward travel itinerary.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel reservation, Airbnb booking, or address where you will be staying in Greece.
Proof of Sufficient Funds Recommended
Credit cards, bank statements, or cash to cover your expenses during your stay in Greece.
Travel Insurance Recommended
Recommended for Schengen travel. Some countries may require it. Should cover medical emergencies and repatriation.
Current Travel Situation
New Zealand to Greece: What You Need to Know
Greece has been a dream destination for New Zealand travellers for generations. The combination of ancient history (Athens, Delphi, Olympia), iconic island landscapes (Santorini, Mykonos, Crete, Rhodes), and Mediterranean cuisine makes it a bucket-list destination. Greece is a Schengen member, so NZ visitors' days contribute to the shared 90-day limit. The summer season (June-September) is peak time; shoulder seasons (April-May and October) offer pleasant weather with far fewer crowds.
How to Get There
Greek domestic flights (Aegean Airlines, Sky Express) connect Athens to major islands cheaply when booked in advance. Ferries (Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines) connect Piraeus port to dozens of islands, ranging from 5 hours to overnight journeys. Day trips from Athens: Cape Sounion (1.5h), Delphi (3h by bus). Athens to Santorini by ferry is 7-8 hours or 45 min by plane.
Money & Banking
Greece uses the Euro (EUR). Currently around 1.80-1.90 NZD per EUR. Greece is among the more affordable Schengen destinations. A gyros from a street souvlaki shop costs EUR 2-4. Fresh seafood at a harbor taverna is excellent value. Card payments are increasingly accepted but carry cash for small island shops and markets.
Practical Tips
Athens is the primary gateway. Most NZ travellers fly via Singapore, Dubai, or London connections. Book early as popular island routes sell out in summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do NZ citizens need a visa for Greece?
No. NZ citizens can visit Greece visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period under the Schengen Agreement.
What are the best islands in Greece for NZ visitors?
Santorini (iconic caldera views, white-washed villages of Oia and Fira, sunsets), Mykonos (beaches, nightlife, windmills, expensive), Crete (Greece's largest island: Heraklion, Knossos palace, Samaria Gorge, beaches), Rhodes (medieval old town, beaches, sun), Corfu (Venetian-influenced old town, lush green scenery), and Paros (quieter, beautiful beaches, good base for island-hopping).
How do I island hop in Greece?
Greek island ferries (Blue Star Ferries, Minoan Lines, Seajets fast catamarans) connect Athens' Piraeus port to major islands. Book ahead in July-August as popular routes sell out. The Athens-Santorini ferry takes 7-8 hours (overnight options available). Athens-Crete is 7-9 hours. Between islands, short ferry hops are common. Ferry booking platforms: ferryhopper.com is excellent for NZ travellers.
When is the best time to visit Santorini?
April-June and September-October are ideal: good weather, manageable crowds, and lower prices than peak July-August. The famous Oia sunset is at its best in late summer. July-August is very hot (35 Celsius+) and Santorini is overwhelmed by cruise ship day-trippers: book accommodation well in advance and pay premium prices.
What is Athens worth seeing beyond the Acropolis?
The Acropolis and Parthenon are essential. Other highlights: the Acropolis Museum (world-class, modern building beneath the Acropolis), the National Archaeological Museum (best collection of ancient Greek art), the Agora (ancient marketplace), the Plaka neighborhood (traditional tavernas), Monastiraki flea market, the National Garden, and sunset views from Lycabettus Hill.
Is Greece expensive for NZ tourists?
Greece is moderately affordable by European standards. Athens is cheaper than Santorini or Mykonos. A gyros wrap from a souvlaki shop costs EUR 2-3. A sit-down taverna meal in Athens costs EUR 12-20. Santorini is significantly more expensive: a restaurant meal costs EUR 30-60, accommodation is very expensive in summer. Crete and lesser-known islands offer much better value.
How do I travel from Athens to Thessaloniki and northern Greece?
Intercity trains (Hellenic Train) connect Athens Larissa station to Thessaloniki in 4.5 hours. Buses (KTEL) are also an option. Thessaloniki is northern Greece's second largest city with a vibrant food and culture scene, less touristy than Athens. Northern Greece (Meteora monasteries, Kavala, Mount Olympus) is a rewarding extension for NZ travellers who have extra time.