Greece May Ban Entry of Travelers from Coronavirus-affected Countries

Greece may impose a temporary ban on the entry and exit of foreign nationals travelling from and to affected countries abroad to limit the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19).

According to a March 14 legislative act, if deemed necessary, the government may restrict the entry and exit of individual travelers and organized or non-organized groups, travelling to and from affected areas abroad.

The legislative act clarifies that – if applied – the entry ban would only concern foreign nationals and not Greek citizens.

The act also mentions that decisions involving the countries affected by the coronavirus will be made by the Health Minister following a “case-by-case” screening process upon recommendation of the National Public Health Organization (EODY).

Entry and exit bans in Greece will be imposed after being specified on a “case-by-case” basis through a joint ministerial decision signed by the ministries of Citizen Protection, Health, Interior, Education, Culture, and Tourism, following recommendation of the national committee for the protection of public health against the coronavirus.

It is reminded that Greece has already announced travel restrictions that include the suspension of flights to/from Italy, Spain and Albania.

Greece is also requiring all incoming travelers to self-isolate for 14 days.