After weeks of confusion and paused travel plans, Indian travellers finally have an answer. Visa application centres handling Greece-bound Schengen applications have reopened across India on 12 February 2026, bringing relief to thousands who were left waiting without clarity.
The services had been shut down in late January 2026, abruptly halting document submissions and biometric appointments at a time when many travellers were preparing for spring and summer travel. With no immediate timeline during the suspension, uncertainty grew quickly among tourists, families, and business travellers alike.
Now, with operations officially restored, applications are moving again—but demand has surged almost instantly. For Indian travellers who rely on Greece as a primary entry point into the Schengen Area, this reopening is significant, marking a restart of long-awaited plans while also signalling the need for timely action and careful planning in the weeks ahead.
What Triggered the Reopening?
Visa centres associated with Greece had paused operations in India due to operational and technical disruptions affecting appointment systems and backend processing. During this period, applicants faced cancelled bookings, frozen applications, and a lack of official timelines.
As of mid-February 2026, services have been restored, allowing fresh applications to be accepted once again. This reopening aligns with broader efforts by Schengen states to normalise visa operations ahead of the upcoming peak summer travel season.
For Indian travellers, this means that pending plans involving Greece can now move forward—but not without careful attention to new appointment pressures and timelines.
Why This News Matters Right Now
The timing of the reopening is crucial. February to April is traditionally when Indian travellers begin applying for visas for May–September travel. Even a short disruption during this window can cause cascading delays.
With centres reopening now:
Applicants who were waiting to submit files can re-enter the system
New appointment slots are gradually being released
Processing backlogs are expected, especially in metro cities
Demand is likely to exceed supply for the next few weeks
Travellers planning to apply for a greece visa should be prepared for limited appointment availability and longer queues, particularly during the initial reopening phase.
What This Means for Indian Travellers Planning Europe Trips
For many applicants, Greece acts as a strategic Schengen gateway due to travel itineraries involving multiple countries. The reopening directly affects:
Tourists planning spring and summer holidays
Families visiting relatives in Europe
Cruise travellers embarking from Greek ports
Business travellers attending conferences or meetings
The resumption of services restores confidence, but it does not automatically guarantee faster processing. Applicants should factor in buffer time and avoid last-minute submissions wherever possible.
Those applying for a greece schengen visa should also note that embassy scrutiny remains unchanged. Documentation standards, financial proofs, and travel insurance requirements continue to be strictly enforced.
🛂 Visa Rules Update: Greece Short-Stay Visas & Tips After Reopening
While the reopening restores access, the rules governing short-stay visas remain consistent with Schengen regulations.
Here’s what applicants should keep in mind:
Applications can be submitted up to six months before the intended travel date
Standard processing time is typically around 15 calendar days but may extend during high volume periods
Biometrics are mandatory unless exempt due to recent Schengen submissions
Travel insurance covering the entire Schengen Area is compulsory
Given the backlog created during the closure, applicants are advised not to assume normal timelines immediately. Submitting complete and well-organised documentation will be critical in avoiding additional delays.
This is especially relevant for those applying for a greece visa with tight travel dates, as embassies may prioritise files based on departure urgency and completeness.
📍 City-Wise Guide to Reopened Greece Visa Centres in India
Visa application centres handling Greece-related Schengen submissions have reopened in major Indian cities, restoring nationwide access.
Typically, centres operate in cities such as:
New Delhi
Mumbai
Bengaluru
Chennai
Hyderabad
Kolkata
While all centres are operational, appointment availability varies by city. Metro locations are witnessing significantly higher demand, with slots filling quickly after release.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor appointment systems frequently and remain flexible with dates. Those willing to travel to alternate cities—where permitted—may find earlier availability.
For travellers applying for a greece schengen visa, choosing the correct jurisdiction and submission centre remains essential to avoid application rejection or redirection.
Managing Expectations After the Reopening
It’s important to understand that reopening does not mean instant normalcy. In fact, the weeks following resumption often see:
Slower processing due to accumulated applications
Limited customer support response times
Increased scrutiny on documentation quality
Applicants should avoid relying on informal timelines or social media speculation. Instead, focus on verified updates, embassy guidelines, and realistic planning.
For many, professional guidance can help navigate post-reopening complexities—especially for first-time applicants or those with previous refusals.
What Travellers Should Do Next
If you are planning to apply for a greece visa in the coming months, consider taking the following steps immediately:
Finalise tentative travel dates
Prepare documentation in advance
Track appointment slot availability closely
Keep flexibility in travel plans
Early action will be the biggest advantage during this high-demand phase.
How Schengen Assist Supports Travellers
With visa centres reopening and appointment demand rising, Schengen Assist helps Indian travellers stay clear, prepared, and realistic about timelines. From interpreting reopening updates to guiding applicants through documentation and slot availability patterns, the focus is on reducing uncertainty during high-demand periods.
Travel curious but unsure when to apply?
Wondering how reopening delays could affect your plans?
Get clarity before you apply.
Learn More: Schengen Assist
