How can Turkish citizens apply for a Greece or EU visa?

In short

• Apply for a Greek Schengen visa through GVCW (Global Visa Center World) offices in Istanbul, Ankara, Izmir, Antalya, and other major Turkish cities.
• Other EU Schengen visas are processed through iDATA, VFS Global, BLS, or VisaMetric centers, depending on the destination country.
• Greece offers an Accelerated Visa program for Turkish citizens visiting selected Greek islands - visa issued in 24 to 48 hours.

Greek or EU Schengen visa application - step by step

Step 1 - Choose your destination consulate

Apply to the consulate of the EU country where you will spend the most time. For a Greek visa, this means the Greek consulate. For Italy or Spain, the respective consulates in Istanbul or Ankara.

Step 2 - Book an appointment

For Greece, book an appointment through GVCW (Global Visa Center World). For other countries, book through the relevant visa center: iDATA for some embassies, VFS Global for others. Slots fill quickly in peak summer.

Step 3 - Prepare your documents

Gather your passport, completed Schengen visa application form, biometric photo, return tickets, hotel bookings, travel insurance covering 30,000 EUR, bank statements from the last 3 months, employment proof, and a cover letter.

Step 4 - Submit and pay

Attend your appointment in person, submit your documents, give biometrics, and pay the visa fee (90 EUR plus center service charge). Keep all receipts for tracking your application later.

Step 5 - Wait for processing

Standard processing is 15 calendar days but can extend to 30 to 45 days during peak season. You will be notified by SMS or email when a decision is made.

Greek visa specifics for Turkish citizens

Greece has a fast-track program for Turkish citizens visiting selected Greek islands by sea, including Lesvos, Chios, Samos, Kos, and Rhodes. Visas under this program are issued within 24 to 48 hours and are valid for short island stays.

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Documents required for Turkish applicants

Bring your Turkish passport (3+ months validity beyond return), completed application, biometric photo, round-trip flight reservation, confirmed hotel bookings, travel insurance covering 30,000 EUR, bank statements from the last 3 months, employer letter or self-employment proof, and a cover letter explaining your trip.