How to Apply for a Greece Tourist Visa in Qatar

The idea of democracy started in Athens, Greece’s capital. The first Olympic games also happened there. Apart from seeing these old places, you can enjoy beautiful beaches and delicious food.

ALSO READ: How to Apply for a Switzerland Tourist Visa in Qatar

If you have a Philippine passport, you need a Schengen visa to go to Greece. The good thing is, this visa lets you visit other countries in the agreement too. Once you have the visa, you can explore this Mediterranean country and see ancient structures you’ve only read about.

Visa Application for Filipinos

Are you planning to visit Greece? If you hold a Philippine passport, the first step is to apply for a Schengen visa through VFS Global according to the instructions from the Greek Embassy.

Requirements

To begin your application, make sure you have the following documents ready:
Greek visa application form, which can be downloaded from the Greek Embassy website
2 pcs identical passport photos that meet the Schengen visa requirements.
Valid passport with a minimum of 3 months validity beyond your planned stay in the Schengen area, and with at least 2 blank pages
Copies of any previous visas you might have (if applicable)
Health insurance that meets Schengen requirements and offers a minimum coverage of €30,000
Proof of flight booking showing flight numbers and dates
Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel reservation or similar facility
Financial statements or other evidence supporting your ability to cover your expenses during your stay in Greece
A cover letter explaining the purpose of your visit
Document confirming your civil status

Additional requirements if you are currently employed:

Employment contract
Current bank statement reflecting transactions from the last 6 months
A letter from your employer

Procedure

Step 1. Book an appointment with VFS Visa Global by sending an email to info.greecedoha@vfshelpline.com

Step 2. Attend your appointment and submit the required documents. Don’t forget to pay the visa fee.

Step 3. Wait for the processing of your application. If approved, you can collect your passport along with the granted visa.

Fees

Here are the current visa processing fees:

Adults – QAR 360
Under 12 years – QAR half price
Under 6 years – FREE

Additional Fees

VFS service fee – QAR 126
SMS Update – QAR 8

Please note that these fees are subject to change. Before applying for a visa, kindly inquire with the embassy about the most up-to-date rates.

Address and Contact Details of Greek Embassy in Doha

Address: Building 5, Street 530, Zone 66, West Bay Lagoon (Legtafiya), Doha
Telephone Number: +974 441 28150/ 441 28 158
Fax Number: +974 441 28160
Email address: gremb.doha@mfa.gr

Map of the Embassy of Greece in Doha

Video on Visa Application

Need help in filling out your visa application form? Watch this video from Miss Raine Travels to get a comprehensive guide for your form. Although the vlogger provides tips for applicants residing in the Philippines, the information presented can still be useful to you.

You can watch the full video here:

Disclaimer: The information posted here is based on personal experiences that the vlogger shared in the video. Please let this post serve as a guide only. If you have specific questions, you may ask the vlogger by commenting on their video or on their social media accounts.

Getting to Greece from Qatar

Numerous airlines offer flights to Greece, such as Qatar Airways and Etihad Airways. However, if you prefer a direct flight, consider booking with Qatar Airways, which takes approximately 5 hours of travel time. The other airlines that you can book include: Turkish Airlines, Etihad Airways, or EgyptAIr.

It is also important to know what are the flights available, and whether these airlines will allow you to cancel your flight or not.

Popular Destinations in Greece

For many of us, Greece conjures images of old temples we studied in school. However, there is much more to experience in Greece beyond the Parthenon and other archaeological sites. The country boasts beautiful beaches, captivating museums, and even religious landmarks to explore.

Let the suggestions from the official Greek tourism website help you plan your vacation properly. Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and shoes and savor every moment of your journey.

Cultural Immersion

This Mediterranean gem is home to ancient monuments, museums, and UNESCO Heritage sites. One must-visit destination is the Acropolis of Athens, majestically perched atop a hill, where the iconic Parthenon stands as a testament to the powerful ancient Greek civilization.

For a glimpse into the origins of the Olympic Games, head to Ancient Olympia, another remarkable site worth exploring.

In Thessaloniki, the White Tower holds historical significance from the Ottoman Period and World War I. Today, it serves as an air defense tower while also housing the meteorological laboratory of the University of Thessaloniki.

Beach Hopping

After indulging in history, it’s time to bask in the allure of Greece’s idyllic beaches. With a coastline stretching 16,000 km, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sun, sand, and sea.

Santorini is a beloved destination for beachgoers, boasting deep blue waters, colorful sand, black volcanic pebbles, and unique rock formations. While in Santorini, seize the chance to scuba dive or windsurf, and keep an eye out for favorite movie locations if you’re cruising around.

Kos offers a plethora of beaches, particularly on the north side of the island, which are easily accessible and equipped with amenities like deck chairs and umbrellas. The south side provides beaches with colder waters and a coastline perfect for spearfishing.

Kalymnos stands out with its beaches adorned in black sands. It caters to both families and solo tourists, offering kitesurfing and windsurfing opportunities. If you seek seclusion and tranquility, you can find hidden beaches accessible only by boat.

Gastronomical Tour

Greek cuisine, renowned worldwide for its fresh ingredients and use of olive oil, is a culinary delight that awaits you. During your visit, make sure to try the following suggested dishes:

Baklava, a beloved Greek dessert, tantalizes with its mix of nuts, butter, sugar, and a generous drizzle of syrup.

Courgette balls, a unique dish, combine vegetables, feta cheese, and fresh mint. The perfect courgette ball should be crispy on the outside and delightfully creamy on the inside.

Tomaotokeftedes, a tomato fritter, surprises with bursts of mint and onion with each bite. It can even be enjoyed as a main course.

Ellinikos, the famous Greek coffee, comes in three variations: Vari Glyko, strong and sweet as honey; Metrios, with a medium level of sweetness; and Sketos, served without sugar. Traditionally, Ellinikos is brewed in a long-handled coffee pot and offers a rich coffee experience.

Do’s and Don’ts When In Greece

When visiting a foreign country, it’s essential to know what’s acceptable and what’s not. Here are some guidelines for your trip to Greece:

DOs:

Greet others with a kiss on the cheek, as it is a customary and friendly greeting.
Accept invitations to Greek households; they are known for their hospitality. Bring a small gift for the host when visiting.
Feel free to speak English, as many Greeks have learned it in school. However, using common Greek words and phrases will be appreciated.
Carry cash with you, as it’s the preferred mode of payment throughout the country. The Euro is the only accepted currency.

DON’Ts:

Avoid putting your palm in front of someone’s face; it’s considered rude, even as a joke.
Refrain from repeating any cuss words you may hear unless you understand their meaning.
Be prepared to see people smoking indoors, even though it’s technically banned, as it’s still a common practice.
If you have limited time (around a week), consider spending more time in Athens rather than rushing to visit too many places far away.

Remember these tips, and you’ll have a smoother and more enjoyable experience exploring the beautiful country of Greece.

Frequently Asked Questions About Visa Application

What is the earliest date I can apply for a Greek visa interview?

You should apply at least 3 months before your planned trip to Greece. This allows sufficient time for processing and preparing your documents.

How much money should be in my bank when I apply for a visa?

There is no specific amount required, but you should have a minimum budget of EUR 60 per day. Additionally, ensure you have enough funds to cover your plane ticket and hotel stay. It’s crucial to demonstrate to the embassy that you can support your trip to Greece without depleting all your savings.

What are the possible reasons for my visa to be denied?

Like with most visa applications, approval is not guaranteed. Possible reasons for denial could include failure to convince the officer that you will return to your home country after your trip, insufficient funds to support your journey, or an inability to prove the purpose of your visit.

Summary

Greece, one of the oldest countries in the world, holds significant historical importance as the birthplace of Greek mythology and the Olympics.

If you hold a Philippine passport and plan to visit Greece as a tourist, you’ll need to apply for a Schengen visa. Being based in Qatar, you must request an appointment with a visa processing agency by sending an email. Ensure you have all the required documents ready before your scheduled appointment. Once you’ve submitted your requirements, you’ll await advice from the embassy. If your application is approved, you can explore Greece and other nearby countries under the Schengen agreement.