What rules for those entering Greece came into effect on February 7, and has anything changed for Russian tourists? The new terms are valid from 06:00 February 7 to 06:00 February 21, 2022, after which they may be extended.
The tourist season is already very close – this year Greece plans to open it on March 1st. And now not only Russians can book tours, but also citizens of the ex-republics of the USSR – Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and others. Including – temporarily residing in the Russian Federation and departing on vacation from Russian airports.
As stated in the Government Gazette of Greece, since February 7, the country has been inviting tourists from different countries. Previously, from states outside the European Union, it allowed only citizens of 42 countries, including from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, Armenia and Azerbaijan.
Entry conditions for those who do not have a European coronavirus certificate are standard: before departure, a PCR or express test and filling out the PLF questionnaire, they say in Association of Tour Operators of Russia (ATOR). And if there is a European certificate?
In line with new EU policy, Greece has abolished coronavirus test requirements for holders of European Digital Vaccine Certificates (EUDCC) or their equivalents issued in third countries with which EU signed agreements on mutual recognition of certificates. Their list includes San Marino, Albania, Andorra, Armenia, Vatican City, North Macedonia, Georgia, Switzerland, El Salvador, United Arab Emirates, Great Britain, Iceland, Israel, Taiwan, Liechtenstein, Lebanon, Morocco, Montenegro, Norway, New Zealand, Ukraine, Uruguay, Panama, Cape Verde, Serbia, Singapore, Thailand, Togo, Turkey, Tunisia and the Faroe Islands.
In this case, we are talking only about vaccines approved by WHO or EMA. In accordance with the decision of the Greek authorities, which was published in the Government Gazette, the European covid certificate or its equivalent is valid 14 days after vaccination for a period of 9 months. After receiving a booster dose, EUDCC is valid indefinitely.
Holders of a European digital certificate of past illness (valid 14 days after a positive laboratory test, but no more than 180 days) no longer need to take tests.
For Russian tourists, the rules for entering Greece have not changed. Mandatory testing for everyone remains, regardless of vaccination status. For citizens of Russia over 5 years old, a negative PCR test (72 hours) or a rapid test (24 hours) is required. The test result must be in English. Upon arrival, a random test is possible. If the result is negative, you will have to spend 5 days in quarantine.
Anti-covid restrictions in Greece are valid for everyone – both local residents and tourists coming to rest. The mask is required not only indoors, but also on the street. To visit the supermarket, you must use two accessories together or one, but with an increased degree of protection – KN95 / FFP2, in accordance with application instructions.
Russian tourists have the right to present a vaccination certificate from the State Services website or a negative PCR/rapid test result to an inspector in Greece. It is better to have these documents in printed form.
More Stories
Shocking report from Japanese scientists: “Cancer deaths increase sharply after mass Covid vaccination”
Study: Scientists have discovered why children are more susceptible to coronavirus
22 arrests and confiscations took place in Italy and other EU countries in the case of "covid" EU funds (video)