*May 19, 2020 UPDATE: You may now submit your application for an extension online prior to your appointment with the Aliens Bureau. See this page for updated instructions.*
Health Alert: U.S. Embassy Athens, Greece (April 2, 2020)
Location: Greece
Event: Daily COVID-19 update to U.S. citizens in Greece: How to apply for an extension of your 90 day visa-free entry
The Department of State continues to urge U.S. citizens abroad considering a return to the United States to depart immediately while commercial flight options exist or be prepared to sustain themselves overseas for an indefinite period without government assistance. There are no plans for chartered or evacuation flights from Greece to the United States.
U.S. citizens are permitted to enter the Schengen zone, which includes Greece, for up to 90 days without a visa. When visitors stay beyond the 90 day limit without receiving an extension, the Greek authorities may impose a fine of 600 or 1,200 Euros per person upon departure, depending on the length of the overstay. See our webpage for more information.
If you are unable to depart before your 90 day limit and wish to apply for an extension, you must call the closest Aliens Bureau at least two weeks prior to your required departure date to schedule an appointment. The Greek authorities evaluate each application on a case by case basis. There is no automatic extension of the 90 day limit because of COVID-19; you must request an extension from the Aliens Bureau or risk being fined upon departure.
The Embassy cannot request an extension on your behalf or attempt to influence the decision on your application. Aliens Bureaus in Attica are below; click here for Aliens Bureaus outside of Attica.
Aliens Bureaus in Attica
Athens 24 Petrou Ralli Str., Tavros 210-340-5828
North-East Attica 15 Agiou Orous Str., Marousi 210-687-5176
South-East Attica Former east airport of Athens 210-969-0293
West Attica 21-23 Marmara Str., Egaleo 210-531-9315
Piraeus 37 Iroon Politehniou Str. 210-417-4855
If approved, you may be granted up to another 90 days. If denied, you must follow their departure instructions.
If your extension request is denied, flights departing Athens with connections to the United States currently are available on Air France, Aegean Airlines, Qatar Airlines, and Swiss Airlines. Additional airline information is available on our COVID-19 webpage. Contact the airlines directly to book a flight.
Assistance:
- U.S. Embassy Athens: +(30) 210-721-2951; AthensAmericanCitizenServices@state.gov
- U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki: +(30) 2310-376-300
- State Department – Consular Affairs: 888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
- Greece Country Information
- Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security update
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