The Foreign Office has issued updated travel advice for Brits planning a trip to Greece following ‘several attacks’ this week. In the update on Thursday, July 2, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) cautioned that “terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Greece.” While there is no existing advice against travel to Greece for British holidaymakers, the FCDO stated that “attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.”
They detailed: “There have been several attacks involving explosives and automatic weapons against Greek institutions, shopping malls, banks, media offices, diplomatic premises and the police.” One devastating attack occurred on Wednesday, July 1, which witnessed “three improvised incendiary device attacks against the residential properties of Greek political figures killed one person, with four others being injured.”
In a stark caution to Brits visiting Greece, under their safety and security travel page, the Foreign Office stated: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
They additionally advised: “UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.”
While the attacks may cause concern, there is presently no guidance advising against travel to Greece. Nevertheless, the Foreign Office highlighted that “no travel can be guaranteed safe” and that Brits should ensure they have travel insurance and review any guidance before travelling abroad, reports the Mirror.
To enter Greece, British citizens must ensure their passports meet Schengen area requirements, and they must:
- “Have a ‘date of issue’ less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it might have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago, making it invalid for entry to the Schengen area
- Have an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave the Schengen area (the expiry date does not need to be within 10 years of the date of issue).”
Meanwhile, the European Union‘s (EU) new Entry/Exit System (EES) has been introduced across airports, though Greece has waived certain requirements for it. This follows significant queues and delays at European airports as Brits attempt to navigate the EES, which requires them to register their biometric details, such as fingerprints and a photograph, upon arrival.
Regarding the EES in Greece, the Foreign Office stated: “Greek authorities have indicated that they will not collect biometric data (fingerprints and photos) for UK travellers as part of EES. Follow the advice of authorities on the ground. If you are resident in Greece, make sure to show your residence documentation at passport control to ensure you are not registered in EES.”
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