The government of Greece has approved for 2017 a simplified visa regime for Russians arriving by ferry from Turkey to the Greek Islands of the Aegean (Rhodes, KOs, Lesbos, etc.). Dimitris Haitidis, the head of the Greek TEZ Tour, citing a source familiar with the situation.
According to Dimitris Haitidis, the head of the Greek TEZ Tour, the new regime is unlikely to dramatically affect the overall tourism picture where arrivals from Russia are concerned. According to the news, authorities will only allow Russians on holiday in Turkey to visit the Islands of the Aegean sea if certain conditions are met.
Upon arrival, the passport will bear the special visa, which costs 35 €. At the same time it gives the right to visit mainland Greece and other countries of the Schengen zone. So, ia compromise was found that will allow travelers to make an exception from the uniform regulations in force in the EU. Alexander Tsandekidi, General Director of tour operator “Mouzenidis Travel” offered this in addition:
“This is definitely a positive fact. However, given the terms of this program, expect a sharp increase in tourist arrivals in Greece in this regard is not necessary. These tourists will, of course, and we are very happy to see you, but likely not more than 2-3 thousand people for the whole season.”
A lightweight procedure for obtaining visas is particularly in demand for tourists buying sea cruises, so this latest option should be especially attractive for Russians headed to the islands for the weekend etc.