Greece Extends Travel Restrictions for Russians

Photo source: Sheremetyevo International Airport

The Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority (HCAA) on Monday issued an aviation directive (NOTAM) which extends the travel restrictions imposed on Russian citizens traveling to Greece.

The directive, which is aimed to limit the further spread of the coronavirus (Covid-19) in Greece, will be in force until October 5 at midnight.

The directive has extended the 500-person cap on Russian arrivals to Greece per week for flights arriving exclusively to the airports of Athens, Thessaloniki and Heraklion (Crete). Flights from Russia are not allowed to arrive at other airports in the country.

Moreover, all permanent residents of Russia entering Greece will still be obliged to present a negative molecular test result (PCR) for Covid-19 upon arrival to the country.

The test must be performed up to 72 hours before travelers enter Greece at a certified diagnostic center and in the English language. The test result must include passport or ID details of travelers.

Photo source: Sheremetyevo International Airport

Airlines are obliged to check whether passengers have a negative Covid-19 test before the flight. If not, passengers should not be allowed to board.

Upon entry to Greece, all permanent residents of Russia will be re-subjected to a laboratory test for Covid-19 with the PCR method (taking a sample from nasal or oral passage). Until the results of the laboratory test are issued, passengers should remain confined to their place of temporary residence. Documentation of their temporary residence in Greece (hotel booking or other appropriate documents) must be presented to authorities upon arrival.

It is reminded that all travelers to Greece are still obliged to complete the Passenger Locator Form (PLF) 24 hours before entering the country.

A fine of 5,000 euros will be imposed on those who violate the rules announced for the controlled entry to Greece of permanent residents of Russia.