A new set of public health measures were announced by Greece’s Health Minister Vasilis Kikilias in late August for the period 13 September 2021 - 31 March 2022.
Why?
The Greek government says separate measures for the unvaccinated were introduced to curb coronavirus transmission during the autumn – winter months, the spread of new variants, and avoid an overburdening of the country’s hospitals.
What?
Among them is the requirement to show proof of vaccination (or proof of infection and recovery from the virus within the past 6 months) upon entry at certain indoor venues. These include clubs, cafes, restaurants, indoor sports venues etc.
However, museums, archaeological sites, theatres and cinemas are exempted from this requirement, meaning entry is also allowed to those unvaccinated provided they present a negative COVID-19 result within the last 48 hours.
Source: govgr
Those who have not been vaccinated are also required to show proof of a negative rapid or PCR test from a certified lab for admission to open-air/outdoor venues.
How?
Venues are required to use the to scan COVID-19 vaccination certificates (whether digital or hard copy) are scanned upon entry to their indoor area. The same app is used for verification of the EU Digital COVID Certificate.
COVID-19 vaccination certificates
For locals, proof of one’s COVID-19 vaccination record can be downloaded through the government digital platform. Social security number and login details for one’s tax affairs account are required for access.
Foreigners who have an EU digital COVID certificate can use that, or even their country’s health certificate (for Schengen countries). The same applies in principle for citizens of countries outside the EU, provided their certificate states the type of vaccine and dates of doses administered.
Among the approved vaccines listed on are Pfizer BioNtech, Moderna, Astra Zeneca/Oxford, Novavax, Johnson + Johnson/Janssen, Sinovac Biotech, Gamaleya (Sputnik), Cansino Biologics, Sinopharm.
What do we know about the implementation so far?
SBS Greek is aware of anecdotal accounts from regional areas suggesting people are not consistently asked about proof of vaccination upon entry to indoor venues.
Implementation in the capital Athens, and other metropolitan cities is reportedly stricter.
Meanwhile, as of Saturday, 9 October restrictions have further eased in indoor venues where only vaccinated patrons can gather, allowing for no use of face mask, drinking while standing and dancing.
The announcement, along with reports over attempts to dodge the checks instigated the deployment of a dedicated taskforce.
Greek police will joining forces with local PSOs and Work Safety for the purpose.
The new ‘freedoms’ are subject to review at the conclusion of the trial period ending 23 October.
Further information on the protocol for arrivals to Greece can be found
