Can I travel across Europe with my Greece student visa?
Students choosing Greece for their higher education often want to explore Europe during holidays or weekends. One of the biggest questions international students ask is whether a Greece student visa allows travel to other European countries.
Can You Travel Across Europe With a Greece Student Visa?
Yes.
A Greece student visa (Long-Stay Visa Type D) and the Greek residence permit allow students to travel freely within the Schengen Area for short stays.
This means you can visit other European countries that are part of the Schengen Zone without applying for an additional visa.
How Long Can You Stay in Other Schengen Countries?
Using your Greece study visa or residence card, you can travel to other Schengen states for:
Up to 90 days within any 180-day period
This rule applies to tourism, short trips, academic conferences, or visiting friends and family.
Which Countries Can You Visit?
With a Greece student visa or residence permit, you can visit all Schengen countries, including:
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France
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Germany
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Italy
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Spain
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Portugal
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Netherlands
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Belgium
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Austria
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Switzerland
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Sweden
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Norway
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Denmark
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Finland
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Czech Republic
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Poland
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Slovakia
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Hungary
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Malta
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Lithuania
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Latvia
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Estonia
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Luxembourg
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Slovenia
These countries do not require an extra visa for short visits.
Do You Need Your Residence Permit for Travel?
Yes.
Your long-stay visa is valid mostly for entry into Greece.
After arrival, you must apply for your Greek Residence Permit.
Once you receive the residence card, it becomes your main travel document within the Schengen Area.
You must carry:
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Passport
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Greek residence permit (plastic card)
When travelling across Europe.
Can You Travel Before Receiving the Residence Permit?
It is not recommended.
You must remain in Greece until your residence permit is issued. Travelling without it can lead to entry problems and delays at borders.
Once you collect your permit, you can travel freely.
Are There Countries You Cannot Visit?
Yes.
Your Greece student visa does not allow you to visit:
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The UK
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Ireland
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Cyprus (non-Schengen)
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Romania
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Bulgaria
These countries require separate visas for non-EU students.
Can You Study or Work in Another EU Country Using Your Greece Visa?
No.
Your visa only allows:
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Studying in Greece
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Working under Greece visa rules
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Traveling in other Schengen countries for short stays
If you want to study or work in another EU country, you must apply for a local visa there.
Final Thoughts
Yes, you can travel across the Schengen Area with your Greece student visa or residence permit. Greece is an excellent base for exploring Europe thanks to easy travel rules, affordable flights, and strong transport connections.
Just make sure you have your residence permit, passport, and follow the 90/180-day rule during your trips.
