New visa system may reduce tourism flow for Greece

Hoteliers warn that new Schengen visa requirements could have particular significance for Greek tourism, as tourism flow may lower

The Hellenic Federation of Hoteliers warned on Monday about its concerns regarding new Schengen visa procedures for third countries applicants, despite anticipated increase in 2016 tourism forecast. Citing estimates by tourism market officials, the hoteliers opinion is that Greece may experience a significant decrease in visitors arrivals for this year, as well as for 2016.

According to the new procedure, third countries Schengen visa applicants are required to provide biometric data (10 fingerprints, special photos etc) when submitting the visa file.

The Federation notes that, as during the first weeks of the new system a major decline in foreigners visa applications has been observed, it is of high importance for all Greek consulates abroad to provide the best and fastest possible service for foreign travelers in the first stage of biometrics submission forms that they are entitled to handle. As Visa centers are responsible for the rest of the procedure, it is vital for the Greek tourism that the country's consulates properly attend first stages of tourists' visa requests, despite consistent following workload.

The new stipulation is already being applied in tourism markets with increased significance for Greek travel influx, like Russia, Ukraine and China. Also, other influential countries will follow, in the next weeks, such as India.