Greece is one of the European countries that provide advanced medical care in various specialties, making it an ideal destination for those seeking treatment abroad. If you are considering traveling to Greece for medical treatment, you will need to obtain a Schengen medical visa, which allows you to enter Greece for a specific period to receive medical care.

In this guide, we will provide detailed information on the requirements for a Schengen visa for medical treatment, the necessary documents, Schengen medical visa cost, how to book a hospital in Greece, and the process of obtaining an invitation letter from a Greek hospital. We will also discuss health insurance for medical treatment in Greece, the importance of proving financial ability for treatment, and the requirement for a temporary flight reservation.

Types of Greece Schengen Visas

  1. Tourist Visa for Greece: For individuals wishing to visit the country for tourism and sightseeing.
  2. Work Visa for Greece: Issued for those seeking legal employment in Greece.
  3. Study Visa for Greece: Granted to students enrolled in Greek universities.
  4. Medical Treatment Visa: For individuals traveling to Greece for medical purposes.
  5. Family Visit Visa: For those visiting relatives residing in Greece.
  6. Business Visa: Issued for business-related travel and professional meetings.

What is a Schengen Medical Visa?

A Schengen medical visa is a short-term visa granted to individuals who need to receive medical treatment in one of the Schengen countries. This visa is usually issued for a period ranging from 30 to 90 days and can be extended in exceptional cases if the medical condition requires it.

Requirements for Obtaining a Schengen Visa for Medical Treatment in Greece

To obtain a medical visa for Greece, you must submit various documents proving your need for treatment, along with evidence of financial capability and a commitment to returning to your home country after the treatment period ends.

  •  Passport

  1. Must be valid for at least three months beyond the visa expiration date.
  2. Must contain at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

  •  Visa Application Form

Available on the Greek embassy's website or through visa service providers like VFS Global.

  •  Recent Passport-Sized Photos

Must have a white background and be 3.5 × 4.5 cm in size, according to Schengen visa specifications.

  •  Invitation Letter from a Greek Hospital

An official letter from a Greek hospital outlining your medical condition, required treatment, estimated treatment duration, and expected costs.

  •  Medical Report from a Doctor in Your Home Country

A document explaining your medical condition and the necessity of receiving treatment in Greece.

  •  Hospital Appointment in Greece

Proof of a confirmed medical appointment in a Greek hospital, specifying the treatment details and duration.

  •  Proof of Financial Ability for Treatment

A recent bank statement proving you have enough funds to cover treatment and accommodation expenses.

If a government or private entity is covering your treatment costs, a financial guarantee letter must be provided.

  • Health Insurance for Medical Treatment

A health insurance policy covering at least €30,000, including emergency and treatment costs in Greece.

  •  Dummy Flight Ticket

  1. A round-trip Dummy flight Ticket showing travel dates and return plans.
  2. This reservation can be obtained from travel agencies or online booking platforms.

  •  Proof of Accommodation in Greece

A hotel booking or proof of temporary accommodation near the hospital where the treatment will take place.

  •  Letter Explaining the Purpose of Travel for Treatment

A personal statement explaining why you chose treatment in Greece, details of the required medical care, and your accommodation plan.

  •  Proof of Ties to Your Home Country

Such as an employment certificate, property ownership documents, or family commitments to confirm your intent to return after treatment.

Medical treatment visa in Greece
Greece Schengen visa for medical treatment

Steps to Apply for a Medical Visa to Greece

  •  Schedule an Appointment at the Embassy or Visa Center

This can be done through the Greek embassy website or through visa service providers such as VFS Global or TLS Contact.

  •  Submit the Required Documents

Ensure all documents are complete and well-organized according to the visa requirements.

  •  Pay the Visa Fees

The Schengen medical visa cost is approximately €80 for adults and €40 for children aged 6-12 years.

  •  Attend the Personal Interview

During the interview, you will be asked about your reason for travel, treatment plan, and financial ability.

  •  Wait for the Visa Decision

Processing usually takes between 15 to 30 days, depending on the case.

Medical Visa Duration and Possibility of Extension

  1. The visa is usually granted for 30 to 90 days.
  2. If an extension is needed, a recent medical report justifying the necessity of prolonged stay must be submitted.

Reasons for Schengen Medical Visa Rejection

  1. Incomplete documents or missing required paperwork.
  2. Failure to prove financial ability for treatment or submitting an insufficient bank statement.
  3. Lack of a hospital appointment in Greece or an unclear medical letter.
  4. Failure to provide a temporary flight reservation proving the intent to return.
  5. Weak travel history or a previous Schengen visa rejection.

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Getting the Visa

  • Ensure all documents are accurate and the visa application form is filled out correctly.
  • Obtain a detailed invitation letter from a reputable Greek hospital.
  • Submit a recent bank statement that fully covers treatment expenses.
  • Book accommodation near the hospital and provide proof of stay.
  • Clearly explain your treatment plan and return intentions in your personal statement.

Applying for a Schengen visa for medical treatment in Greece is a crucial step to ensure access to the necessary healthcare services in Europe. Meeting all Schengen medical visa requirements, including health insurance for medical treatment in Greece, proof of financial ability for treatment, and a temporary flight reservation, is essential to avoid visa rejection.

If you plan to travel to Greece for medical treatment, it is advisable to start the visa process early to ensure timely approval. By following this guide, you can streamline the application process and increase your chances of obtaining the visa without complications.