Greek visa resources
Processing times for a Greece national long-stay application
Consular decisions on visa applications are generally issued within a set period after lodging, while the in-country residence-permit examination is a separate stage.
Important
Greece's national long-stay process has two timelines. At the consulate, a decision on a visa application is, as a rule, made within 15 calendar days of the date the admissible application is lodged; this period may be extended to up to 30 days, or in exceptional, specific cases up to 60 calendar days, where additional examination or consultation is needed.
The in-country residence-permit stage runs on its own timescale at the Ministry of Migration and Asylum. While the permit is being examined, applicants receive a certificate/receipt (the 'blue receipt', bebaiosi) that serves as proof of legal stay, so you are covered during processing even if the card is not yet issued.
Key points
- Apply well ahead of your intended travel or start date
- Consular decision: typically within 15 days, extendable to 30 or up to 60 days in specific cases
- The residence-permit examination in Greece is separate and can take longer
- The blue receipt (bebaiosi) legalises your stay while the permit is processed
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.