Greek Islands Visa on Arrival 2026: Complete Guide to 12 Islands, Requirements, Fees and Travel Rules

Do Turkish citizens always need a standard Schengen visa to visit Greece?

Not necessarily.

Under a special visa-on-arrival arrangement, eligible Turkish citizens can visit 12 designated Greek islands through a simplified short-stay visa procedure.

On March 31, 2026, the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs officially announced that the programme had been renewed for another year.

The scheme allows eligible visitors to stay for up to seven days, subject to the conditions of the visa issued.

However, travellers need to understand an important distinction.

Visa on arrival does not mean that you can simply arrive at a ferry terminal without preparing an application in advance.

Supporting documents and the necessary arrangements must be completed before departure.

This guide explains the 12 participating islands, required documents, application process, costs, ferry travel and restrictions as of October 2026.

What Is the Greek Islands Visa on Arrival?

The Greek Islands Visa on Arrival, also referred to as the Express Visa or Kapıda Vize in Turkish, is a simplified short-stay visa procedure for eligible Turkish nationals visiting selected Greek islands.

It differs from a standard Schengen visa.

Application arrangements are completed before departure, while eligible travellers may receive the visa at authorised Greek island entry points.

The scheme does not grant unrestricted travel throughout Greece or the Schengen Area.

Main Rules for 2026

• The programme covers 12 Greek islands.
• The maximum stay is seven days.
• Advance application preparation is required.
• The scheme applies to qualifying sea arrivals from Türkiye.
• It does not permit onward travel to mainland Greece.
• It does not grant travel rights to other Schengen countries.
• Approval and admission are not guaranteed.

The programme was relaunched in 2024 and expanded to 12 islands in 2025.

The Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed its renewal for another year beginning March 31, 2026.

Which 12 Greek Islands Offer Visa on Arrival in 2026?

The officially announced list includes:

These islands are included in the official Greek government programme.

However, inclusion does not guarantee year-round direct ferry connections from Türkiye.

Ferry schedules and available entry procedures must be checked before departure.

Ferry Routes from Türkiye to the Greek Islands

Several Greek islands are connected to the Turkish coast by international ferry services.

Well-known connections include:

These are general travel connections, not guaranteed current daily departures.

Some services may operate seasonally or be affected by weather conditions.

Before making reservations, check the latest ferry schedule and confirm that the intended journey qualifies under the visa procedure.

Greek Islands Visa on Arrival Fees in 2026

The express visa is not a visa-free entry arrangement.

Visa and administrative processing fees may apply.

The total amount may depend on the destination, applicable procedures, age category and additional services.

Because fees can change, there is no single price quoted in this guide as universally applicable to all 12 islands.

Travellers should consider the following possible costs:

• Visa and administrative processing.
• Return ferry tickets.
• Accommodation.
• Travel medical insurance where required.
• Port taxes and other applicable charges.

Always confirm the current total cost and refund conditions before submitting an application.

Required Documents for the Greek Islands Express Visa

Exact document requirements may vary depending on the destination and applicable application procedure.

Commonly requested documents may include:

• A valid passport.
• A copy of the passport identification page.
• Recent biometric photographs.
• A copy of the Turkish national identity card.
• Return ferry reservations.
• Accommodation confirmation for overnight visits.
• Completed application forms and required declarations.
• Proof of residence.
• Financial documentation where requested.
• Travel medical insurance where required.
• Additional documentation for children.

This is a general preparation checklist, not a universal official document list.

Applicants must confirm the current requirements through the appropriate authorised channel.

Passport Validity

Passports must satisfy the applicable Greek entry requirements.

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides official travel guidance concerning passport validity and entry into Greece.

Travellers should check the relevant conditions before purchasing non-refundable travel services.

How to Apply for a Greek Islands Visa on Arrival

The procedure generally involves several stages.

Step 1: Choose Your Destination

Select one of the 12 participating islands.

Consider the travel period, available ferry connections and accommodation options.

Step 2: Confirm Ferry Availability

Check that a qualifying ferry connection is operating on your intended travel dates.

Confirm that the relevant visa arrangements are available for that journey.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Obtain the current application requirements.

Make sure passport information, ferry reservations, accommodation and dates are consistent.

Step 4: Complete the Advance Application Arrangements

Do not assume that the application can be started from scratch on the day of departure.

The necessary documents must be prepared and processed ahead of travel.

Submission deadlines may vary depending on the procedure.

Travellers should allow additional time during busy holiday periods.

Step 5: Complete Entry Formalities in Greece

On arrival at the authorised island entry point, passport and documentation checks are carried out.

Additional controls may be required.

The Greek authorities retain the final decision on visa issuance and admission.

Can You Visit Athens or Thessaloniki with the Express Visa?

No.

The scheme does not permit onward travel to mainland Greece.

For example, a visitor entering Lesvos under the express visa programme cannot use that authorisation to continue to Athens or Thessaloniki.

Travellers intending to visit mainland Greece must meet the normal entry requirements applicable to their passport and visa status.

Can You Visit Santorini, Mykonos or Crete?

No, not under this specific scheme.

Santorini, Mykonos and Crete are not among the 12 participating islands.

Travellers planning to visit these destinations must meet the applicable standard entry requirements for Greece.

Can You Visit Multiple Greek Islands?

The express visa is not equivalent to a standard Schengen visa granting general travel permission.

The scope of travel depends on the authorisation issued and its conditions.

Do not plan a multi-island itinerary under this scheme without explicit confirmation from the competent authorities.

Travellers interested in visiting several Greek destinations should consider whether an appropriate standard Schengen visa is necessary.

How Long Can You Stay?

The maximum permitted stay under the programme is seven days.

The actual authorised duration depends on the visa issued.

Travellers should also check the visa's entry conditions and validity dates.

Do not assume that an issued visa can automatically be reused for future visits.

Do Turkish Green Passport Holders Need the Express Visa?

Turkish citizens holding qualifying special, or green, passports are generally exempt from short-stay Schengen visa requirements when the applicable conditions are met.

Certain diplomatic and service passports also benefit from visa exemptions.

Eligible travellers normally do not require the express visa solely to visit the Greek islands.

However, passport validity, permitted duration of stay and other border requirements still apply.

Can Children Apply for Visa on Arrival?

Yes.

Children who are subject to visa requirements must also satisfy the applicable application and travel-document rules.

Additional documentation may be necessary when a child travels with only one parent or without their parents.

Depending on the circumstances, parental consent or other supporting documents may be required.

Families should verify the exact conditions before departure.

Can an Application Be Refused?

Yes.

Visa applications and entry permissions are assessed by the competent Greek authorities.

Incomplete documents, failure to meet applicable entry conditions or other legal considerations may lead to refusal.

Northern Cyprus Entry and Exit Stamps

The Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs publishes official warnings concerning passports containing Northern Cyprus entry or exit stamps and potential difficulties entering Greece.

Travellers affected by this issue should seek current official guidance before making travel arrangements.

Applicants with previous visa refusals or unusual travel-document circumstances should also confirm the applicable requirements.

Which Greek Island Should You Visit?

Each participating Greek island offers its own character, culture and travel experiences.

Lesvos: Authentic Greek Island Life

Lesvos is one of Greece's largest islands.

It is known for olive groves, traditional villages, local gastronomy, historic settlements and scenic coastlines.

Its proximity to Ayvalık makes it a popular destination for visitors travelling from the Turkish Aegean coast.

Lesvos is particularly appealing for travellers interested in food, nature and authentic local experiences.

Chios: Medieval Villages and Mastic Heritage

Chios is famous for its medieval settlements, traditional architecture and historic mastic production.

Its proximity to Çeşme makes it attractive to travellers from the İzmir region.

Samos: Nature, Wine and Beaches

Samos combines green landscapes, vineyards, beaches and small coastal communities.

The island appeals to visitors interested in nature and independent exploration.

Rhodes: Historic Attractions and Resort Holidays

Rhodes offers medieval architecture, beaches, restaurants and a wide variety of accommodation.

Its historic Old Town is among its best-known attractions.

Kos: Beaches, Cycling and Heritage

Kos combines beaches, cycling routes, ancient sites and convenient access from the Bodrum area.

Kastellorizo: A Small Island Escape

Kastellorizo, known as Meis in Turkish, is a small Greek island opposite Kaş.

Its colourful harbour and relaxed atmosphere make it attractive to travellers seeking a quieter Aegean experience.

The Other Participating Islands

Symi, Kalymnos, Leros, Lemnos, Patmos and Samothrace offer distinctive landscapes, cultural traditions and local experiences.

Travel connections to some of these islands may be more limited, so careful planning is particularly important.

Practical Advice from a Greek Hotelier

As a Greek hospitality professional who has lived in Türkiye and works closely with tourism between the two countries, I recommend planning your trip around three essential elements:

Visa arrangements, ferry connections and accommodation.

A ferry reservation alone does not guarantee visa approval.

Make sure your travel dates match any accommodation information submitted during your application.

Allow sufficient time for border procedures, especially during popular travel periods.

Booking accommodation in advance may also provide more choice during the summer.

Above all, remember that each Greek island has its own history, gastronomy, architecture and way of life.

Exploring these differences is part of what makes travelling across the Aegean so rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Travel Checklist

Before departing from Türkiye:

• Confirm that your destination is included in the programme.
• Check current ferry availability.
• Verify the applicable application arrangements.
• Confirm passport validity.
• Prepare the required documents.
• Match your travel and accommodation dates.
• Understand the permitted duration and travel restrictions.
• Confirm applicable fees and refund conditions.

The Greek Islands Express Visa programme offers eligible Turkish travellers a practical way to discover selected Aegean destinations.

With the right preparation, it can make exploring the Greek islands easier and more accessible.

Explore Greece through the perspective of a Greek hotelier.

Discover destination guides, practical advice and selected accommodation opportunities through Yunan Turizmci.

yunanturizmci.com

Official Sources

Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Official programme renewal announcement, March 31, 2026:
mfa.gr — Briefing by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson, 31 March 2026

Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Official travel guidance for Turkish citizens visiting Greece:
mfa.gov.tr — Guidance for Turkish citizens travelling to Greece