COVID-19 Information (2024)

COVID-19 Information

Last updated: 04/05/2023

The CDC’s Order requiring proof of vaccination for non-U.S. citizen nonimmigrants to travel to the United States is still in effect. For more information see Requirement for Proof of COVID-19 Vaccination for Air Passengers.

Check the CDC website for additional information andFrequently Asked Questions.

Country-Specific Information:

• Greek authorities report COVID-19 case numbers weekly on the website of the National Public Health Organization (https://eody.gov.gr/)
• Masks Required in Healthcare Facilities: Greece has relaxed most COVID-19 measures. Masks are no longer required on public transport or most indoor spaces in Greece. Masks are still required in healthcare facilities and nursing homes. Healthcare facilities also require COVID-19 tests for patients and those accompanying them.
• What To Do if You Test Positive in Greece: Travelers to Greece are recommended to obtain travel insurance that includes coverage of expenses for medical care and/or extension of stay in the event they test positive for COVID-19. Please review the CDC’s website for recommended precautions for people with COVID-19, including travel-related recommendations. Contact your airline for details on what they require in order to board a traveler who recently recovered from COVID-19.
• Questions on Travel to Greece?: Greek authorities have posted answers to many Frequently Asked Questions about travel to and within Greece at travel.gov.gr and greecehealthfirst.gr. The Greek National Tourism Organization has also launched the Visit Greece app, which includes detailed COVID-19 travel updates, as well as a map of COVID-19 diagnostic testing locations. The Visit Greece App is available for download viaGoogle Playor theApp Store.

Entry and Exit Requirements

• Are there COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens?  No 
• Is a negative COVID-19 test (PCR and/or serology) required for entry? No
• Are health screening procedures in place at airports and other ports of entry?  No

Quarantine Information 

•  Are U.S. citizens required to quarantine?  No

COVID-19 Testing

• COVID-19 tests are widely available at many major hospitals, pharmacies, and laboratories in Greece, as well as theAthens Eleftherios Venizelos Airport(at Arrivals level between entrances 2-3; seeFAQfor more details). Hotels and tourism facilities may have lists of nearby testing sites or be able to help arrange tests. Testing is paid by the individual being tested.The cost for COVID-19 PCR tests is capped at 47 euros, and for rapid antigen tests at 10 euros, though additional charges may apply for testing at home or other circ*mstances. Patients needing COVID-19 tests or exhibiting possible symptoms may contact the COVID-19 hotline at 1135 for guidance on testing and referral for medical care. Travelers are recommended to contact testing centers in advance to obtain appointments and confirm testing timelines.

COVID-19 Vaccine Information:

• Are vaccines available in Greece for U.S. citizens to receive? Yes
• The Greek Ministry of Health has developed system for COVID-19 vaccination information and appointments, available on the Greek government webpage athttps://emvolio.gov.gr/en. U.S. citizens who do not have a Greek Social Security Number (AMKA) may visithttps://emvolio.gov.gr/en/pamkato request a temporary AMKA number needed to obtain a vaccination appointment.Individuals may request a temporary AMKA number through a Citizens’ Service Center (KEP) as well.Once a temporary AMKA number is issued, a vaccination appointment can be obtained either through a pharmacy or a Citizens’ Service Center (KEP).
• Greece has created a process for individuals who completed some or all prior COVID-19 vaccination doses abroad toregister their vaccinations in Greecethrough a Citizens’ Service Center (KEP). This allows individuals vaccinated outside of Greece to obtain appointments for booster shots, or complete a partial series of a two-dose COVID-19 vaccine in Greece. Individuals who then complete their two-dose vaccination series or obtain a booster shot in Greece would receive a Greek vaccination certificate, including a QR code. Review full information on thegov.grwebsite and seek assistance from your local KEP.
• Visit the FDA’s website tolearn more about FDA-approved vaccinesin the United States.

Local Resources:

• If you develop fever and/or respiratory symptoms such as shortness of breath or cough, stay indoors and immediately seek medical attention by contacting the National Public Health Organization by dialing 1135.
• Robustmedical care is available in major metropolitan areas; less so on islands and rural areas
• National Public Health Organization of Greece
• European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC)
• Other links:
  • Destination Greece — Health First: COVID-19 Travel FAQ for Tourists in Greece
  • COVID-19 crisis page on travel.state.gov
  • Centers for Disease Control: COVID-19 Test Requirement for All Air Passengers Entering U.S.
  • Centers for Disease Control:COVID-19 Information
  • Centers for Disease Control: Information for Travelers
  • Greece Country Specific Information
  • What the Department of State Can and Can’t Do in a Crisis.

Movement Restrictions

• Is a curfew in place?  No
• Are there restrictions on intercity or interstate travel?  No

Fines for Non-Compliance 

• The fine for not wearing a mask in areas where it is required or not maintaining required social distancing is300 euros. The fine for falsifying vaccination certificates is5000 euros.The fine for non-compliance with mandatory quarantine is5000 euros, in addition to possible arrest. 

Assistance:

• • U.S. Embassy Athens, Greece
  • +30 210-721-2951
  • AthensAmericanCitizenServices@state.gov

By lanemv | 5 October, 2022 | Topics: Alert, Messages for U.S. Citizens