Starting in 2025, Australians planning to visit Europe, including Greece, will face new travel requirements. Over 1.4 billion people from more than 60 visa-exempt countries, including Australia, will need to obtain a travel authorisation through the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) to enter 30 European nations for short stays.

The ETIAS, akin to the US Visa Waiver system known as ESTA, will apply to Australians unless they hold dual citizenship with a European country such as Greece or Cyprus to enter the country of their citizenship. This change means that many Greek Australians, unless they are also citizens of Greece or Cyprus, will need to navigate the new system. To navigate other EU countries they will still need an EU passport.

The list of countries requiring ETIAS includes Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, and others across Europe. The authorisation will be linked to the traveller’s passport and will remain valid for up to three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. A new passport will necessitate a new ETIAS application.

Once granted, ETIAS allows for a 90-day stay within a 180-day period, maintaining the current allowance. Border guards will still assess the entry, ensuring all conditions are met.

The ETIAS application will cost €7 (approximately AUD 12), though those under 18, over 70, or families of EU citizens are exempt from the fee. Non-EU nationals with rights to free movement within the EU are also exempt. Applications will be processed online through the official ETIAS website or app.

Travellers will need to provide detailed personal information, including name, address, date of birth, parents’ first names, education level, occupation, travel plans, and any criminal convictions.

As 2025 approaches, Australians, including the Greek Australian community, should prepare for these changes to ensure smooth travel to Europe.