Exercise normal precautions in Greece.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Greece:
Six months of remaining validity recommended
One page per stamp
Not required for stays less than 90 days; visa required for all official and diplomatic passport holders
None
10,000 euros or the equivalent
10,000 euros or the equivalent
91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue
10160 Athens, Greece
Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301
Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313
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U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki
Plateia Commercial Center
43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor
546 23 Thessaloniki
Greece
Telephone: +30-231-024-2905
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301
Fax: +30 231-024-2927
usconsulate@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki provides weekly notarial service. U.S. Embassy Athens provides all other regular consular services including U.S. passports, notarials, and reports of birth and death abroad.
Periodically, Embassy Athens’ consular staff provide regular consular services in Thessaloniki. Please check the U.S. Embassy in Athens’ website for information on the next scheduled visit.
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Greece for information on U.S.-Greece relations.
Visit the Embassy of Greece website for the most current visa information.
Greece is a party to the Schengen Agreement. This means that U.S. citizens may enter Greece without a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. For additional details about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet.
If you are a U.S. citizen born in the Republic of Macedonia, your U.S. passport should be recognized as a valid travel document. However, be aware:
HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS: The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Greece.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs information on our website.
Terrorism: Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations. In the past year, there have been multiple terrorist attacks in Europe. Extremists continue to focus on tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and local government facilities as viable targets. In addition, hotels, clubs, restaurants, places of worship, parks, high-profile events, educational institutions, airports, and other soft targets remain priority locations for possible attacks. U.S. citizens should exercise additional vigilance in these and similar locations.
For more information, see our Terrorism page.
Strikes and Demonstrations:
Crime: Crimes against tourists, such as pick-pocketing and purse-snatching, occur at popular tourist sites, on public transportation (especially the Metro) and in Thessaloniki shopping areas. Thieves break into cars to steal passports and rifle through luggage in search of valuables. The Embassy has received reports of alcohol-induced attacks targeting individual tourists at some holiday resorts and bars; one incident was fatal.
Take the following precautions:
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime: Report crime to the local police and contact the U.S. Embassy at (+30) 210-720-2414 or the Emergency after-hours telephone (+30) 210-729-4444 if you require assistance. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
Tremors and earthquakes occur regularly. Please see the Greek government”s earthquake-safety pamphlet for tourists and visitors. Forest fires are common, especially during the dry summer months, and occasionally cause road closures. In the event of a natural disaster, follow the instructions of local authorities. Contact the General Secretariat for Civil Protection, which responds to emergencies, at 210-335-9900 for more information. Operators speak English. Monitor the U.S. Embassy Athens’ website and Consular Facebook page.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Possession of a U.S. passport will not prevent you from being arrested, prosecuted, or jailed.
Some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See our webpages for details:
Greek Antiquities: Customs authorities strictly regulate the export of Greek antiquities, including rocks from archaeology sites. Do not remove anything, no matter how small, from archaeological or historical sites. Do not purchase protected antiquities and carry a receipt for any purchases.
Military Service for Dual Nationals:
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Greece. LGBTI individuals in Greece are protected by anti-discrimination laws, and gender identity is among the grounds covered by laws against hate speech; however, non-governmental organizations report that social discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity is widespread in Greece.
See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance: While Greek law prohibits discrimination against persons with physical or intellectual disabilities and local law requires access to buildings, sidewalks, and public transportation, application and enforcement of these laws is lacking.
The Deputy Ombudsman for Social Welfare handles complaints related to persons with disabilities, especially those related to employment, social security, and transportation.
Students: See our students abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers.
Most public medical facilities in Greece offer adequate care, although service quality and hospital appearance may differ from the United States. Some private hospitals have affiliations with U.S. facilities and provide high-quality care. Many doctors trained in the United States or elsewhere in Europe.
We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.
We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Greek Embassy or consulate in the United States, the Customs office at Athens International Airport (+30 210-3542126) or the National Organization of Medicines (relation@eof.gr, www.eof.gr, +30 213-204-0000) to ensure the medication is legal in Greece. Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: Greece has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the European Union. Exercise extreme caution as both a driver and a pedestrian, and follow these tips:
Traffic Laws:
See our road safety page for more information, including information on IDPs. Visit the Greek National Tourist Office website for more helpful tips.
Public Transportation: Make sure you purchase and validate your ticket by touching it to the pad on the turnstile prior to boarding a bus or train. Inspectors randomly board public transportation to check for tickets. If you have no ticket, the wrong ticket, or failed to validate your ticket, you could be fined up to 60 times the basic fare.
Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of Greece’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Greece’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Greece should monitor U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at www.marad.dot.gov/msci, the U.S. Coast Guard homeport website, https://homeport.uscg.mil, and the NGA broadcast warnings website https://msi.nga.mil/NGAPortal/MSI.portal.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue
10160 Athens, Greece
Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301
Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313
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U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki
Plateia Commercial Center
43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor
546 23 Thessaloniki
Greece
Telephone: +30-231-024-2905
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301
Fax: +30 231-024-2927
usconsulate@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki provides weekly notarial service. U.S. Embassy Athens provides all other regular consular services including U.S. passports, notarials, and reports of birth and death abroad.
Periodically, Embassy Athens’ consular staff provide regular consular services in Thessaloniki. Please check the U.S. Embassy in Athens’ website for information on the next scheduled visit.
Lists of Attorneys - U.S. Embassy Athens; U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki
Greece is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to Greece’s Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. In its Declarations and Reservations on the Hague Service Convention, Greece formally objected to service under Article 10, and does not permit service via postal channels. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from Greece in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Greece is a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters. The Greek Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention designated to receive letters of request for the taking of evidence is the Ministry of Justice. See the Hague Evidence Convention Model Letters of Request for guidance on preparation of the letter of request. Requests for the compulsion of evidence under the Hague Evidence Convention are transmitted directly from the requesting court or person in the United States to the Greek Central Authority and do not require transmittal via diplomatic channels. Letters of Request and accompanying documents should be prepared in duplicate and translated into Greek. See Greece’s Declarations and Reservations regarding the Hague Evidence Convention. See also Greece’s response to the 2008 Hague Conference questionnaire on the practical operation of the Hague Evidence Convention.
Requests from Greece to Obtain Evidence in the United States: The U.S. Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention is the Office of International Judicial Assistance, Civil Division, Department of Justice, 1100 L Street N.W., Room 8102, Washington, D.C. 20530.1100 L St., N.W., Room 11006, Washington, D.C. 20530.
Voluntary depositions of U.S. citizen witnesses may be conducted in Greece, provided no compulsion is used. Voluntary depositions of Greek and third country nationals require prior permission from the Greek Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention. Oral depositions or depositions on written questions may be taken by U.S. consular officers or by private attorneys from the United States or Greece at the U.S. Embassy or at another location such as a hotel or office, either on notice or pursuant to a commission. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. embassy directly.
Greece is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Greece’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Convention will authenticate Greek public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in Greece, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
91 Vasilisis Sophias Avenue
10160 Athens, Greece
Telephone: +(30)(210) 721-2951
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301
Fax: +(30)(210) 724-5313
athensamericancitizenservices@state.gov Facebook
U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki
Plateia Commercial Center
43 Tsimiski Street, 7th floor
546 23 Thessaloniki
Greece
Telephone: +30-231-024-2905
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +30 210 729-4444 or +30 210 729-4301
Fax: +30 231-024-2927
usconsulate@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General Thessaloniki provides weekly notarial service. U.S. Embassy Athens provides all other regular consular services including U.S. passports, notarials, and reports of birth and death abroad.
Periodically, Embassy Athens’ consular staff provide regular consular services in Thessaloniki. Please check the U.S. Embassy in Athens’ website for information on the next scheduled visit.
Greece and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since June 1, 1993.
For information concerning travel to Greece, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions and aviation safety, please see country-specific information for Greece.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizens Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Greece. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children’s Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-485-6221
Website
The Greek Central Authority (GCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry of Justice. The Ministry of Justice has an administrative role in processing Hague Abduction Convention applications. The Ministry of Justice forwards completed Hague applications to the Legal Council of the State, which in turn will assign the case to a legal representative. Parents or legal guardians and other parties (e.g., the child) have the right to their own legal counsel. The GCA can be reached at:
The Greek Central Authority
Ministry of Justice, Transparency and Human Rights
96 Mesogeion Avenue
11527 Athens
Greece
Telephone: 011 [30] (210) 776-7312
Fax: 011 [30] (210) 776-7499
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Greece, the USCA encourages a parent or legal guardian to review the eligibility criteria and instructions for completing the Hague application form located at the Department of State website and contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the GCA. It is extremely important that each document written in English be translated into Greek. Please note, however, that certified translations are not necessary. Any competent person or organization may translate the documents. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the GCA, and to subsequently monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the United States or Greece central authorities. Attorney fees, if necessary, are the responsibility of the applicant parent. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, Greece. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Greece. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand country-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
In a Hague Abduction Convention case, left-behind parents may qualify for a public prosecutor, at no charge, if the left-behind parent meets certain financial requirements. Left-behind parents who do not meet these financial requirements are responsible for retaining their own attorney in Greece at their own expense. When working with a public prosecutor, it is important to note that this individual does not represent the left-behind parent or legal guardian who submitted the Hague Abduction Convention application; instead, the legal representative represents Greece and submits the request for return on behalf of the Greek Minister of Justice. A privately hired attorney should contact the GCA as soon as possible after the Hague Abduction Convention application has been filed with the Greek Central Authority.
The U.S. Embassy in Athens, Greece, posts a list of attorneys, including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney.The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the persons or firms included in this list. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
Mediation may be available for both abduction and access cases. Although the GCA does not provide mediation services directly, there are registered attorneys who act as mediators and offer mediation services in every Greek Bar Association.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Greece is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations, as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Greece.
Note: Greece is not generally considered a country of origin in intercountry adoption. There are few children eligible for adoption in Greece. U.S. prospective adoptive parents residing in Greece are cautioned that while Greek domestic adoption procedures may allow birth mothers to relinquish their parental rights to a child prior to giving birth, such consents are not consistent with the Hague Convention.
In addition, children born to mothers who relinquish their rights prior to birth may not acquire Greek citizenship, even if the child is born in Greece.
In limited circumstances, U.S. prospective adoptive parents may pursue a domestic adoption in Greece. They are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy in Athens or U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for more information on the Form I-130 Petition for Alien Relative (immediate relative) process in Convention countries.
Special transition provisions apply to adoptions initiated before April 1, 2008. Learn more.
In addition to the U.S. requirements, Greece requires prospective adoptive parents to meet the following requirements in order to adopt a child from Greece:
Because Greece is party to the Hague Adoption Convention, children from Greece must meet the requirements of the Convention in order to be eligible for adoption. For example, the adoption may take place only if the competent authorities of Greece have determined that placement of the child within Greece has been given due consideration and that an intercountry adoption is in the child’s best interests. In addition to Greece’s requirements, a child must meet the definition of Convention adoptee to be eligible for an immigrant visa that will allow you to bring him or her to the United States.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
WARNING: Greece is party to the Hague Adoption Convention. Do not adopt or obtain legal custody of a child in Greece before a U.S. consular officer issues an “Article 5 Letter” in the case. Read on for more information.
Although there are no private adoption agencies in Greece, children may be adopted with the involvement of an attorney or a notary who will act as a facilitator. Such private adoptions are for in-country, and not intercountry purposes. If you intend to move with your adopted child to the United States, or outside of Greece, you should not engage in a private adoption, but should follow the Convention process. Whether or not a child is adopted through one of the government-run institutions and orphanages, or privately, a lawyer is required.
Greece’s Adoption Authority
Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare
Note: If any of the following occurred prior to April 1, 2008 (the date on which the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force with respect to the United States), the Hague Adoption Convention may not apply to your adoption: 1) you filed a Form I-600A identifying Greece as the country where you intended to adopt; 2) you filed a Form I-600; or, 3) the adoption was completed. Under these circumstances, your adopted child’s visa application could continue to be processed in accordance with the immigration regulations for non-Convention adoptions. For more information, read about Transition Cases. Similarly, if the Hague Adoption Convention entered into force in Greece after April 1, 2008, and you have an approved, unexpired Form I-600A or filed a Form I-600 before the entry into force date in Greece, your adoption may be considered a transition case. Please contact adoptionusca@state.gov with the details of the case if this situation applies to you.
The Process
Because Greece is party to The Hague Adoption Convention, adopting from Greece must follow a specific process designed to meet the Convention’s requirements. A brief summary of the Convention adoption process is given below. You must complete these steps in the following order so that your adoption meets all necessary legal requirements. Adoptions completed out of order may result in the child not being eligible for an immigrant visa to the United States.
1. Choose a U.S. Accredited or Approved Adoption Service Provider
The recommended first step in adopting a child from Greece is to select an adoption service provider in the United States that has been accredited or approved to provide services to U.S. citizens in Convention cases. Only accredited or approved adoption services providers may provide adoption services between the United States and Greece. The U.S. accredited or approved adoption service provider will act as the primary provider in your case. The primary adoption service provider is responsible for ensuring that all adoption services in the case are done in accordance with the Hague Adoption Convention and U.S. laws and regulations. Learn more about Agency Accreditation.
2. Apply to USCIS to be Found Eligible to Adopt
After you choose an accredited or approved adoption service provider, you must apply to be found eligible to adopt by the responsible U.S. government agency, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), by submitting Form I-800A. Read more about Eligibility Requirements.
Once USCIS determines that you are “eligible” and “suited” to adopt by approving the Form I-800A, your adoption service provider will provide your approval notice, home study, and any other required information to the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare in Greece as part of your adoption dossier. Greece’s Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare reviews your application to determine whether you are also eligible to adopt under Greek law.
3. Be Matched with a Child in Greece
If both the United States and Greece determine that you are eligible to adopt, and the central authority for adoptions has determined that a child is available for adoption and that intercountry adoption is in that child’s best interests, the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare in Greece may provide you with a referral for a child. The referral is a proposed match between you and a specific child based on a review of your dossier and the needs of a specific child in Greece. The Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare in Greece will provide a background study and other information, if available, about the child to help you decide whether to accept the referral or not. Each family must decide for itself whether or not it will be able to meet the needs and provide a permanent home for a particular child. If you accept the referral, the adoption service provider communicates that to the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare in Greece. Learn more about this critical decision.
4. Apply to USCIS for the Child to be Found Eligible for Immigration to the United States and Receive U.S. Agreement to Proceed with the Adoption
After you accept a match with a child, you will apply to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for provisional approval for the child to immigrate to the United States (Form I-800). USCIS will make a provisional determination as to whether the child meets the definition of a Convention Adoptee and will be eligible to enter the United States and reside permanently as an immigrant.
After provisional approval of Form I-800, your adoption service provider or you will submit a visa application to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Athens, Greece, is responsible for issuing immigrant visas to children from Greece. A consular officer will review the Form I-800 and the visa application for possible visa ineligibilities and advise you of options for the waiver of any noted ineligibilities.
WARNING: The consular officer will send a letter (referred to as an “Article 5 Letter”) to Greece’s Central Authority in any intercountry adoption involving U.S. citizen parents and a child from Greece where all Convention requirements are met and the consular officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States. This letter will inform Greece’s Central Authority that the parents are eligible and suited to adopt, that all indications are that the child may enter and reside permanently in the United States, and that the U.S. Central Authority agrees that the adoption may proceed.
Do not attempt to adopt or obtain custody of a child in Greece before a U.S. consular officer issues the Article 5 Letter in any adoption case.
Remember: The consular officer will make a final decision about a child’s eligibility for an immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
5. Adopt (or Gain Legal Custody) of a Child in Greece
Remember: Before you adopt (or gain legal custody of) a child in Greece, you must have completed the above four steps. Only after completing these steps, can you proceed to finalize the adoption or grant of custody for the purposes of adoption in Greece.
The process for finalizing adoption or gaining legal custody in Greece generally includes the following:
Role of Adoption Authority: According to Greek Law, 2447/1996, all petitions submitted to local orphanages by the prospective adoptive parents are followed by an extensive and thorough field investigation performed by local social services, which are supervised by the Greek Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare. When the investigation is over, the case file is forwarded to the local institution’s committee.
The local institution’s committee approves or disapproves the petition of the prospective parents. This committee then matches prospective adoptive parents with children, taking into account the specific needs of specific children and the corresponding ability of prospective parents to meet those needs.
If the child is 12 years or older and has no emotional or mental condition impairing judgment, the court takes the child’s wishes into consideration. In addition, the court takes into consideration the perspectives of the children of the adopting family. Because of the relatively small number of adoptions in Greece, this matching process can be detailed and precise. Adoptive parents’ applications are processed by the local institutions strictly in chronological order; however, priority is given to persons willing to adopt a child with special physical or psychological needs.
If the petition is approved, the case file is forwarded to the appropriate court for endorsement.
For private adoptions within Greece, the social service arm of the respective prefecture (nomarchy) of the area where the parents reside can also initiate the process. In either case, the prefecture’s public welfare service or ISS will conduct the field investigation. The law requires that a home study be conducted by local social services, prior to the court hearing, so that the family and the social status of the adoptive parents can be determined.
There is a 15-20 day fostering period for children living in institutions.
Role of the Court: A court decision must be issued following the field investigation by the relevant social service. The majority of adoption mediators ensure that biological parents do not know the details of the adoptive parents, to exclude the possibility of blackmail attempt or other unlawful action.
The documents that comprise the legal file submitted to the court in order to issue a final decision for the adoption are:
In abandonment cases, a court process replaces the consent of biological parents and facilitates procedures between the adoptive parents and the interested party. Specifically, the consent of parents for adoption of their child is replaced with a court decision if:
Adoption Fees: In the adoption services contract that adoptive parents sign at the beginning of the adoption process, the parents’ accredited U.S. agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to the adoption process.
Prospective adoptive parents must obtain a “revenue stamp” (Greek Government fee) before a child is released by a local institution. Court and attorney fees are approximately 1,000 Euros for adoption of children living in local institutions. Fees may change. Be aware that fees and expenses for private adoptions can be substantial.
In the adoption services contract that adoptive parents sign at the beginning of the adoption process, the agency will itemize the fees and estimated expenses related to the adoption process.
Documents Required: In the case of an intercountry adoption, the International Social Service in Athens or the local prefecture require the following documents from prospective adoptive parents in order to proceed with a field investigation:
6. Obtain an Immigrant Visa for your Child and Bring Your Child Home
Now that your adoption is complete (or you have obtained legal custody of the child for the purpose of adopting the child in the United States), there are a few more steps to take before you can head home. Specifically, you need to apply for three documents before your child can travel to the United States:
Birth Certificate
If you have finalized the adoption in Greece, you will first need to apply for a birth certificate for your child so that you can later apply for a passport.
Upon finalization of the adoption, the court will change the child’s surname to that of the adoptive parent. The court may also allow the adoptive parent, upon application, to add or change the given name that the child had before the adoption, and to change the place of birth, if this is in the interest of the child.
The court will issue a decision on any changes made on the name of the adopted child based on the primary birth certificate. This certificate is then presented to the Greek registry office (Lixiarhion). The new birth certificate will contain the name of the adoptive parent(s) as the parents, with no reference to the biological parents, and it will also reflect any name or place of birth changes approved by the court, with no reference to the court decision. This is done because of the strict privacy laws in Greece, which state that the adoption of minors must be kept secret. The adopted child only has the right to be informed by the adoptive parents and the Greek competent authorities on the particulars regarding his/her natural parents, once he/she has reached the age of 18. Before that time, the adoption cannot legally be divulged to the adopted child.
Greek Passport
Your child is not yet a U.S. citizen, so he/she will need a travel document or passport from Greece.
Prospective adoptive parents can visit this website for information on obtaining a Greek passport for their child.
U.S. Immigrant Visa
After you obtain the new birth certificate and passport for your child, you also need to finalize your application for a U.S. visa for your child from the U.S. Embassy in Athens, Greece. After the adoption (or custody for purpose of adoption) is granted, visit the U.S. Embassy for final review of the case, issuance of a U.S. Hague Adoption Certificate or Hague Custody Certificate, final approval of Form I-800, and to obtain your child’s immigrant visa. This immigrant visa allows your child to travel home with you. As part of this process, the consular officer must be provided the “Panel Physician’s” medical report on the child if it was not provided during the provisional approval stage. Read more about the Medical Examination.
Child Citizenship Act
For adoptions finalized abroad prior to the child’s entry into the United States: A child will acquire U.S. citizenship upon entry into the United States if the adoption was finalized prior to entry and the child otherwise meets the requirements of the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
For adoptions finalized after the child’s entry into the United States: An adoption will need to be completed following your child’s entry into the United States for the child to acquire U.S. citizenship.
*Please be aware that if your child did not qualify to become a citizen upon entry to the United States, it is very important that you take the steps necessary so that your child does qualify as soon as possible. Failure to obtain citizenship for your child can impact many areas of his/her life including family travel, eligibility for education and education grants, and voting. Read more about the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.
POST-ADOPTION/POST-PLACEMENT REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
Greece requires at least one post-adoption report submitted yearly for a time period of three years following the adoption.
Applying for Your U.S. Passport
U.S. citizens are required by law to enter and depart the United States on a valid U.S. passport. Only the U.S. Department of State has the authority to grant, issue, or verify U.S. passports.
Getting or renewing a passport is easy. The Passport Application Wizard will help you determine which passport form you need, help you to complete the form online, estimate your payment, and generate the form for you to print—all in one place.
Obtaining a Visa to Travel to Greece
In addition to a U.S. passport, you may also need to obtain a visa. A visa is an official document issued by a foreign country that formally allows you to visit. Where required, visas are affixed to your passport and allow you to enter a foreign nation. To find information about obtaining a visa for Greece, see the Department of State’s Country Specific Information.
Staying Safe on Your Trip
Before you travel, it is always a good practice to investigate the local conditions, laws, political landscape, and culture of the country. The Department of State provides Country Specific Information for every country of the world about various issues, including the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, and any areas of instability.
Staying in Touch on Your Trip
When traveling during the adoption process, we encourage you to enroll with the Department of State. Enrollment makes it possible to contact you if necessary. Whether there is a family emergency in the United States or a crisis in Greece, enrollment assists the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in reaching you.
Enrollment is free and can be done online via the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP).
POST-ADOPTION RESOURCES
Many adoptive parents find it important to find support after the adoption. There are many public and private nonprofit post-adoption services available for children and their families. There are also numerous adoptive family support groups and adoptee organizations active in the United States that provide a network of options for adoptees who seek out other adoptees from the same country of origin. Take advantage of all the resources available to your family, whether it is another adoptive family, a support group, an advocacy organization, or your religious or community services.
Here are some places to start your support group search:
Note: Inclusion of non-U.S. government links does not imply endorsement of contents.
U.S. Embassy in Greece
Vasilissis Sophias 91
101 60 Athens, Greece
Tel: 210-7202452
Fax: 210-7253025
Email: athensconsul@state.gov
Internet: gr.usembassy.gov
Greek Adoption Authority
Department of Adoptions, Fosterages, Central Authority for Inter-Country Adoptions
Directorate of Family Protection (D22)
General Directorate of Welfare
General Secretariat of Welfare
Ministry of Labour, Social Security and Social Solidarity
Postal Address: 29 Stadiou, Athens 101 10, Greece
Tel: 210-5281182-3, 210-5281273
Fax: 210-5281199
Email: kady@yeka.gr
Website: http://www.ypakp.gr
Embassy of Greece
2217 Massachusetts Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20008
Tel: 202-939-1300
Fax: 202-234-2803
Email: gremb.was@mfa.gr
Internet: http://www.greekembassy.org
Greece also has Consulates in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco and Tampa. For detailed contact information, please visit the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.
Office of Children’s Issues
U.S. Department of State
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17, 9th Floor
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Tel: 1-888-407-4747
Email: AdoptionUSCA@state.gov
Internet: adoption.state.gov
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)
For questions about immigration procedures:
National Customer Service Center (NCSC)
Tel: 1-800-375-5283 (TTY 1-800-767-1833)
Internet: uscis.gov
For questions about filing a Form I-800A or I-800 petition:
National Benefits Center
Tel: 1-877-424-8374 (toll free); 1-816-251-2770 (local)
Email: NBC.Adoptions@DHS.gov
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| E-1 2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| E-2 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2B | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO 1-6 10 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| NATO-7 1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 60 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 15 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 60 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The date and place of birth on your passport must read exactly as registered on your birth certificate.
Each person immigrating, regardless of age, requires a separate visa. Therefore, you must be prepared to pay in cash the variable fee mentioned on our forms in United States currency or the equivalent in local currency.
Document translations: Documents that will be submitted to the U.S. Embassy in Athens may be in either English or Greek and do not need to be translated, with the exception of court or legal documents. Court or legal documents must be accompanied by an English official translation performed by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs at this location: Arionos 10, Psiri, 105 54 Athens.
For cases processed in Athens, all other documents not in Greek or English must be accompanied by official English translations. Official translations must be done at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Greece, Arionos 10, Psiri, 105 54 Athens
Available
Fees: Fees may apply
Document Name: “Lixiarchiki Praxi Geniseos” (Ληξιαρχική Πράξη Γέννησης)
Issuing Authority: Registrar’s office (“Lixiarhio” Ληξιαρχείο)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round wet seal of the Greek State and a signature, white color, printed format or handwritten.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.
Registration Criteria: Birth document issued by the hospital is presented at the Registrar’s office (Lixiarchio or Ληξιαρχείο) of the region where the relevant Registry act is drawn up.
Procedure for Obtaining: The requestor must appear in person at Registrar’s office (Lixiarchio or Ληξιαρχείο) where the birth took place.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available.
Exceptions: None
Comments: General use (Πιστοποιητικό - Pistopiotiko) birth certificates are not accepted.
Available
Fees: Fees may apply
Document Name: “Lixiarchiki Praxi Thanátou” (Ληξιαρχική Πράξη Θανάτου)
Issuing Authority: Registrar’s office (“Lixiarhio” Ληξιαρχίω) or local city hall (“Dimarxhio” Δημαρχειο)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round wet seal of the Greek State and a signature, white color, printed format or handwritten.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel.
Registration Criteria: Medical certificate of death is presented at the Registry of the place of death.
Procedure for Obtaining: The requestor may appear in person at Registrar’s office (Lixiarchio or Ληξιαρχείο).
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.
Exceptions: None
Comments: General use (Πιστοποιητικό - Pistopiotiko) death certificates are not accepted.
Available
Fees: Fees may apply
Document Name: “Lixiarchiki Praxi Thanátou” (Ληξιαρχική Πράξη Θανάτου)
Issuing Authority: Registrar’s office (“Lixiarhio” Ληξιαρχίω) or local city hall (“Dimarxhio” Δημαρχειο)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round wet seal of the Greek State and a signature, white color, printed format or handwritten.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel.
Registration Criteria: Medical certificate of death is presented at the Registry of the place of death.
Procedure for Obtaining: The requestor may appear in person at Registrar’s office (Lixiarchio or Ληξιαρχείο).
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents.
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Fees may apply
Document Name: Diazefktirio (διαζευκτήριο)
Issuing Authority: The Greek First Instance Court (Protodikio or Πρωτοδικείο) of the place where the decision took place.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round wet seal of the Greek State, affixed square stamp and a signature, printed format.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Judge
Registration Criteria: After the issuance of a final divorce Judgment, the persons should proceed with the registration of the divorce in Greece with the competent registry and with their family's record in the competent municipality.
Procedure for Obtaining: The Protodikio (Πρωτοδικείο) for the Athens area is located at Palea Ktiria Sholis Evelpidon, Athens. Tel: 2108841618. Information for mutual consent divorces can be obtained at: tel: 2108822549.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: If the marriage was performed according to the Christian Orthodox religion, the court decree is presented to the Greek Church authorities (Mitropolis or Μητρόπολις) for the final pronouncement of the dissolution of the marriage. Both the court decree and the certificate of divorce from the Mitropolis (Μητρόπολις) are required as primary evidence of divorce in Greece. If the marriage took place in a civil ceremony, then the court decree together with the divorce certificate issued by the local City Hall (Dimarhio or Δημαρχείο) are required as evidence of the divorce. (If applicants want to have their final divorce certificates they also need to have official resignation of all legal means).
Available
Fees: Fees apply
Document Name: Πιστοποιητικά υιοθεσίας
Issuing Authority: Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: There is no special seal(s)/color/format.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Judge
Registration Criteria: Contact the Ministry of Labor, Social Security and Welfare
Procedure for Obtaining: Contact the Ministry of Labor, Social Insurance and Social Solidarity of Greece.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Available
Fees: Fees Apply
Document Name: Δελτίο ταυτότητας Greek identity card
Issuing Authority: Ministry of Internal Affairs
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round seal of the Greek State and a signature.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title.
Registration Criteria: There is no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: The authority handling the issuing is the Hellenic Police, and possession of this document is mandatory for all Greeks 12 years of age and older.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: The National ID card is laminated
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: Penal Record for Judicial Use (Ποινικό Μητρώο για Δικαστική Χρήση, or Piniko Mitro yia Dikastiki Xhrisi)
Issuing Authority: Ministry of Justice, Department of Criminal Records
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round seal of the Greek State and a signature
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: Apply for a Penal Record for Judicial Use at the Bureau of Penal
Procedure for Obtaining: The Greek authorities will not provide a Penal Record for Judicial Use to applicants directly. Rather, they will forward any such police certificate to the U.S. Embassy in Athens. The following information must be included in the application for a Penal Record for Judicial Use for immigration purposes:
Type of Copy: Check the box for Judicial Use.
Reason for Issue: Write “Request for a Visa”
Description: Write “Request for a Visa from the U.S. Embassy, Athens”
Greeks born and/or residing in Athens can apply for a Penal Record for Judicial Use at the Bureau of Penal Records (Υπηρεσία Ποινικού Μητρώου - Ipiresia Pinikou Mitroou) of the Ministry of Justice, Leoforos Alexandras & Degleri 2, Athens or through KEP (Center of Citizen Information Service). Greeks born and residing in Greece, but outside of Athens, should apply for a Penal Record for Judicial at the Public Prosecutor’s Office (Εισαγγελία - Isangelia) of the appropriate district administration.
Non-Greek applicants residing in Greece and foreign-born Greek applicants should apply in person for a Penal Record for Judicial Use to the Bureau of Penal Records for Foreigners (Υπηρεσία Ποινικού Μητρώου Αλλοδαπών - Ipiresia Pinikou Mitroou Allodapon), at Mesogion 96, 101 79 Athens, Greece.
Non-Greek citizens residing abroad cannot apply for a Penal Record at a Greek embassy or consulate overseas. Such applicants will need to authorize a representative to apply on their behalf. Authorizations must be notarized at a Greek embassy or consulate overseas. Representatives for non-Greek citizens residing overseas can apply for in person at the Bureau of Penal Records for Foreigners (Υπηρεσία Ποινικού Μητρώου Αλλοδαπών - Ipiresia Pinikou Mitroou allodapon), Mesogion 96, 101 79
Certified Copies: Certified copies are not available.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: Police certificates have a validity of 12 months from the date of issuance
Not accepted: Penal Record for General Use (Ποινικό Μητρώο για Γενική Χρήση, or Piniko Mitro yia Geniki Chrisi)
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: Δικαστική απόφαση
Issuing Authority: Court records are available from the Convicting Court and can be sent directly to the applicants.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round wet seal of the Greek State, affixed square stamp and signatures
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The Presiding Judge
Registration Criteria: There is no registration criteria
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should provide the court with the case number shown in the penal record.
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: All Greek court/prison documents must be accompanied by an official ENGLISH translation performed by the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs at this location: Arionos 10, Psiri, 105 54 Athens. Applicant must request a full court transcript with detailed information ( praktika dikis)
Available
Fees: There are no fees
Document Name: A military record type "A" (Pistopiitiko Stratologikis Katastaseos Typou "A" or Πιστοποιητικό Στρατολογικής Καταστάσεως Τύπου "A") is available to Greek males who are eighteen years of age or older and who have completed their military service. Those who have been exempted from service or who have had their military duty deferred may obtain the Type "B" (Typou B') (Pistopiitiko Stratologikis Katastaseos or Πιστοποιητικό Στρατολογικής Καταστάσεως Τύπου "B") giving the reason for exemption or deferral.
Issuing Authority: The recruiting office (Stratologiko Grafio or Στρατολογικό Γραφείο) where they are registered.
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a round wet seal of the Greek State, the issuing authority and issuing personnel signatures
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The head of Personnel Recruitment Center
Registration Criteria: All males at age 18 were registered at the Recruitment Center
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants should apply to the recruiting office (Stratologiko Grafio or Στρατολογικό Γραφείο ) where they are registered. They can trace their recruiting office through the local Town Council Registry Office (Mitroa Arrenon tou Dimou or Μητρώα Αρρένων του Δήμου). For further information please contact the "Citizen Information Services" (Tilefono exipiretiseos tou Politi or Τηλέφωνο εξυπηρετήσεως του Πολίτη ) on the four-digit telephone number 1502. For general information please call 1564 (Citizen Information Services of the Ministry of Interior).
Certified Copies: Certified copies are available
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: None
Types Available: Regular, Diplomatic, Official passport
Fees: Fees apply
Document Name: Διαβατήριο Diavatirio
Issuing Government Authority: National Passport Center
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Bears a gold color seal of the Greek State on the front cover. Color is dependent on the passport type.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: There is no issuing authority personnel title
Registration Criteria: Requestor must appear in person at the Police Directorate. The applicant is required to fill out an application form and their details are electronically registered by Passport Office personnel.
Procedure for Obtaining: Applicants wishing to be issued a passport must apply, in person, at the Passport Office in their area of permanent residence.
Alternate Documents: There are no alternate documents
Exceptions: None
Comments: A Greek passport issued to a minor with “Avaptisto” (meaning not baptized) as the given name may be accepted for an applicant provided the applicant is 12 months old or younger and does not have another given name. Applicants who are older than 12 months or who have been baptized must have a new passport issued in a given name other than “Avaptisto”.
Other Documents Available: There are no other documents available.
Not applicable.
Post Title: Athens (Embassy)
Mailing Address:
Department of State
Immigrant Visa Unit
7100 Athens, Place
Washington, DC 20521-7100
Address:
Vasilissis Sophias 91
101 60 Athens, Greece
Phone Number: (30) (210) 7212-951-8
E-mail: athensconsul@state.gov
Comments / Additional Information: None
Fax: 2310-242927
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Washington, DC (202) 939-1300 (202) 939-1324
Atlanta, GA (404) 261-3391 (404) 261-3313 (404) 262- 2798
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Chicago, IL (312) 335-3915 (312) 335-3958
Houston, TX (713) 840-7522 (713) 840-0614
Los Angeles, CA (310) 826-5555 (310) 826-8670
New York, NY (212) 988-5500 (212) 734-8492
San Francisco, CA (415) 775-2102 (415) 776-6815
Tampa, FL (813) 865-0200/04 (813) 865-0206
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