Greece: Authorities to open borders to international tourism, ease COVID-19 restrictions from May 14 /update 59

Event

Authorities in Greece plan to ease the nation's COVID-19 restrictions on domestic activity and international entry. Starting May 14, the country will reopen for international tourism. All arrivals must complete Greece's Passenger Locator Form (PLF) detailing the place and duration of their stay. Arriving travelers must also present a certificate of vaccination against COVID-19, a negative result from a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test taken no more than 72 hours before arrival, or an official document certifying that they have recently recovered from COVID-19. All travelers, including those traveling domestically to any of the Greek islands, must possess a certificate of vaccination, a negative result from a COVID-19 PCR test no older than 72 hours, or a negative rapid test no older than 24 hours. In addition, all land border crossings are reopening effective May 14.

Domestically, authorities will lift a ban on travel between regions from May 14. Moreover, the nation's existing curfew will start two and half hours later, with new curfew hours 00:30-05:00. Individuals may only leave their homes for essential reasons, such as work-related duties or seeking medical assistance, during curfew hours. Retail stores may operate with a capacity of one customer per 25 square meters (270 square feet). Tighter local restrictions remain in place in areas experiencing higher COVID-19 activity.

Authorities could reimpose, extend, further ease, or otherwise amend any restrictions with little-to-no notice depending on disease activity over the coming weeks.

Advice

Follow all official instructions. Abide by national health and safety measures. Reconfirm all travel arrangements. Consider delaying traveling if experiencing symptoms associated with COVID-19, as they may prompt increased scrutiny and delays. Liaise with trusted contacts for further updates and guidance. Maintain contact with your diplomatic representation. Ensure contingency plans account for further disruptive measures or extensions of current restrictions. Reconsider and reconfirm nonemergency health appointments.

Resources

Greek Government Coronavirus Portal (Greek)
World Health Organization (WHO)
General Secretariat for Civil Protection
Passenger Locator Form
Schengen Area Countries