Greece Issues 100,000+ Visas to Turkish Visitors, Plans to Extend Visa-On-Arrival Program in 2025
Key Points on Greece’s Visa-On-Arrival Program for Turkish Nationals
- Over 100,000 express visas have been issued to Turkish nationals since the program's launch on April 1, 2024.
- Nearly 400,000 Turkish tourists visited Greek islands during the peak summer season, contributing significantly to local economies.
- Greek authorities are planning to extend the visa-on-arrival program into 2025 due to its success.
- The scheme allows Turkish visitors short-term stays (1-7 days) on ten Greek islands with a single-entry permit costing €60, bypassing the need for a Schengen visa.
- Greece and Türkiye are enhancing cooperation in maritime sectors, leveraging shared interests in tourism and transport.
Program Highlights and Expansion Plans
The visa-on-arrival program was introduced to strengthen ties between Greece and Türkiye. Initially set to expire in late 2024, the program's success has led to discussions about extending it to 2025, potentially expanding eligibility to more non-Schengen countries.
Economic and Tourism Impact
The program has bolstered tourism in Greece while creating competition for Türkiye’s tourism industry. Greek islands, known for boutique hotels, attract tourists with distinct offerings compared to Türkiye’s mass-tourism resorts, affecting pricing strategies.
Future Prospects
The Greek government is optimistic about continuing and expanding the program, with regional and national leaders pushing for enhanced collaboration to further boost tourism and bilateral relations.