South Africa passport → Greece

Greece visa for citizens of South Africa

Embassy / VFSSchengen Visa (Tourist)

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Greece and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre.

Verified · Last checked 2026-09-05. Policies change. Confirm with the embassy or official visa portal before you travel.

Key facts

Entry route	Embassy / VFS · Schengen Visa (Tourist)
How to apply	In-person at an embassy or visa center
Maximum stay	Up to 90 days
Entries	Multiple entry
Processing time	15–45 days
Government fee	€90 + €30 service fee
Passport validity	At least 3 months
Biometrics	Required
Appointment	Required
Interview	Not required
Onward or return ticket	Required
Proof of funds	Bank statements for last 3 months showing sufficient funds

How to apply

1
Determine visa type
Select the appropriate Schengen visa (tourist, business, etc.).
2
Complete application form
Fill out the online Schengen visa application form and print it.
3
Gather required documents
Collect all documents as per the checklist.
4
Book an appointment
Schedule an appointment at the VFS Global center or Greek embassy.
5
Attend appointment
Submit documents, provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo), and pay fees.
6
Wait for processing
Processing typically takes 15 calendar days, may extend to 45.
7
Collect passport
Collect your passport with visa decision from the center or via courier.
8
Verify visa details
Check visa validity, number of entries, and duration of stay.
9
Travel to Greece
Ensure you have all documents for border control.
10
Comply with stay conditions
Do not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period.

Documents checklist

Identity

Completed Schengen visa application form
Signed and dated.
Valid passport
At least 2 blank pages, valid for 3 months beyond departure.
Two recent passport-sized photos
35x45mm, white background.

Travel

Travel health insurance
Minimum €30,000 coverage, valid for entire Schengen area.
Round-trip flight itinerary
Confirmed reservation with dates and flight numbers.
Accommodation proof
Hotel bookings or invitation letter from host.
Travel itinerary
Detailed day-by-day plan.

Financial

Bank statements (last 3 months)
Original or certified copy.
Proof of sufficient funds
e.g., credit card statements, cash, traveler's cheques.
Visa fee payment receipt
Proof of payment of €80 + service fee.

Employment

Employment letter
Stating position, salary, and approved leave.
Leave approval letter
From employer confirming dates.

Supporting

Proof of civil status
Optional
Marriage certificate, birth certificate of children if applicable.
Copy of previous Schengen visas
Optional
If applicable.

Proof of funds

Minimum balance: €50 per day of stay

Bank statements
Credit card statements
Cash
Traveler's cheques

Sufficient funds must cover accommodation and expenses.

Good to know

Visa does not guarantee entry; border officials make final decision.
Biometrics are required every 5 years for Schengen visas.
Incomplete applications may be rejected.

Common refusal reasons

Insufficient funds

Provide clear bank statements showing adequate balance.

Invalid travel insurance

Ensure insurance covers €30,000 and entire Schengen area.

Incomplete documentation

Double-check checklist and submit all required documents.

Previous visa violations

Provide explanation and evidence of compliance.

FAQ

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Greece?

Citizens of South Africa need a visa for Greece and must apply in person at an embassy or visa centre. Visa type: Schengen Visa (Tourist).

How long can citizens of South Africa stay in Greece?

Up to 90 days.

How much does the Greece visa cost for citizens of South Africa?

Government fee: €90 + €30 service fee.

How long does Greece visa processing take?

Typically 15–45 days.

What documents do citizens of South Africa need for Greece?

Completed Schengen visa application form; Valid passport; Two recent passport-sized photos; Travel health insurance; Round-trip flight itinerary; Accommodation proof; and 8 more.

How long must my passport be valid for Greece?

At least 3 months.

Where do I apply?

On the official site: https://www.vfsglobal.com/greece/southafrica/

Sources

vfsglobal.com

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