Important

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Important -

Documentation

Please take a moment to review this page, as it contains essential information about the documentation required for travel. Certain applications must be completed in advance, so we encourage you to read through the details carefully to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trip.

ETIAS for Canadian Citizens

What is ETIAS?

The ETIAS, short for European Travel Information and Authorization System, is an entry requirement for Canadians visiting Schengen Zone countries. 

It is not a visa but a pre-travel authorization that helps European authorities assess visitors before they arrive. 

This means that even though Canadians do not need a visa for short trips, they must complete an ETIAS application online before departure.

The system works similarly to other visa waiver programs like Canada’s Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or the US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). If you’ve traveled to the US by air, you may have already completed an ESTA form.

The ETIAS follows a similar process, collecting basic personal details, passport information, and security-related questions to determine if you’re eligible for entry.

Preparing for Your Greece ETIAS Application

Before you start the application, make sure you have everything ready. The ETIAS application is designed to be straightforward, but you’ll need specific information and documents on hand.

Here’s a quick checklist:

  • Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in Greece. This is a must.

  • Email Address: You’ll need a reliable email where the ETIAS can send your authorization once it’s approved.

  • Payment Method: A credit or debit card to cover the application fee, which is expected to be around €7 for adults. Minors under 18 and adults over 70 are exempt from the fee.

The application will also ask you for personal details like your name, birthdate, nationality, and current address.

Be ready to answer questions about your travel plans and some background questions regarding your health, criminal history, and past travel in conflict areas.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Greece ETIAS

Now that you know what you need, let’s go through the steps.

1. Access the ETIAS Application Portal

Start by visiting the ETIAS application portal and select “Apply Now.” Choose "Greece" as your main destination if that's where you plan to spend the most time during your trip. 

This step helps the system identify the main country for your visit, even though the ETIAS allows travel across all Schengen countries.

2. Enter Your Personal Information

In this section, fill out basic details like your full name, birthdate, nationality, and passport number. Make sure to double-check these details to avoid any errors, as mistakes could cause delays or rejections.

3. Provide Travel and Background Information

Next, you’ll be asked about your travel intentions, including where you plan to go in Greece and your expected entry date. You’ll also answer a few questions about your background.

These questions are security-focused, covering topics such as your employment, health history, and any past criminal record.

Example question: “Have you traveled to any conflict areas in the past five years?” Be honest here; the system is designed to ensure safe travel, not to prevent travelers without reason.

4. Review and Submit Your Application

Take a moment to carefully review all your answers before submitting. Small mistakes, like a typo in your passport number, can slow down your approval. Once you’re sure everything is correct, hit submit.

5. Pay the Application Fee

Use your credit or debit card to pay the €7 application fee. Remember, some travelers under 18 or over 70 won’t need to pay this fee, so check if you qualify for an exemption.

What to Expect After Submitting Your ETIAS Application

Once you’ve submitted your application, the ETIAS will process it automatically. The good news is that most applications are approved within minutes, thanks to a fully digital and automated system.

You’ll receive your approved ETIAS authorization via email, usually within 24 hours, although some cases may take a few days if further checks are needed.

Approval Email

Keep an eye on your inbox for the email confirming your ETIAS approval. Print it out or save it on your phone as a backup, though it’s usually electronically linked to your passport.

Validity

ETIAS approval is valid for up to three years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first. During this period, you can enter Greece multiple times for short stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.

If your application takes longer than expected, you can check its status on the ETIAS website. Just have your application reference number handy.

Passports

While this may seem obvious, we know that life gets busy, and it’s easy to overlook passport details—especially if you assume it expires later than it actually does! Please take a moment to double-check your passport’s expiration date and ensure it will be valid for travel well before the wedding.

Additionally, you will need a valid passport to complete your ETIAS application, which is required for entry into Greece. If your passport needs renewal, we strongly recommend handling it as soon as possible to avoid any last-minute stress. We’d hate for anyone to run into unexpected delays that could prevent them from joining us for this special celebration!