Nationals of the United Kingdom, Other EU Countries, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand & Japan do not require visas for stays of up to 90 days. Also, those continuing their journey to a third country within 48 hours do not require visas, provided holding tickets with reserved seats and other documents for their onward journey. (Some countries are excluded).
Travellers must go in person to the Greek Embassy to apply for visas. Applicants residing in the UK can make appointments using the automated booking service. Both photocopies and the original form of all documents are required.
Nationals of certain countries, including the children and spouses of EU nationals, are eligible to receive their visas without any payment. The spouse's passport and marriage certificate, or the child's birth certificate, the latter two in original, must be presented. Travellers are advised to enquire at the Embassy for more details.
Both parents should accompany minors under 18 years. If that is not possible, a letter is required from both of the parents or the legal guardians. This is to authorize the minor to stay and travel in Greece, and also to appoint a person who will be accountable for the minor during that period. A person of law or the consular officer of the applicant's nationality must authenticate the letter. Also required are the minor's birth certificate, the parents' passports and some legal proof of guardianship.
The only requirement for EU and EEA nationals to enter any EU/EEA member state is proof of their identity and nationality. This could be through either a valid passport, or a national identity card. Showing a return ticket, length of validity of the documents, and proof of funds to finance the stay is not compulsory.
Note: Greece refuses admission and transit to holders of travel documents issued by Macedonia (Former Yugoslav Republic), Holders of travel documents issued by the area of Cyprus not controlled by the Government of Cyprus and holders of Turkish travel documents with visas or stamps indicating previous or planned visits to Cyprus.
The Schengen Visa is issued for tourist, business and private visits. There are three types: Short-stay, Transit and Airport Transit (US$50).
It is advisable to check this information with your relevant embassy prior to travel.
US citizens that need to renew, add pages, change name, or just get a new US passport, can Apply for a New US Passport here.