Today, Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) Secretary Janet Napolitano announced the designation of Greece as a member
of the Visa Waiver Program (“VWP”). Greece’s VWP designation represents a major step forward in the continued and long-standing economic and security partnership between the United States and Greece, reflecting more than two years of coordination between the two countries on Greece’s entry into VWP.

In accordance with the VWP designation process, DHS has determined that Greece complies with key security and information sharing requirements, such as: (1) enhanced law enforcement and security-related data sharing with the United States; (2) timely reporting of lost and stolen passports; and (3) the maintenance of high counter-terrorism, law enforcement, border control, aviation and document security standards. In turn, Greek citizens will be permitted to travel to the United States for up to 90 days without obtaining a visa.

With this announcement, Greece joins the 35 nations already participating in VWP, established as a pilot program in 1986 and made permanent on October 30, 2000. Like VWP travelers from other countries, Greek citizens will be required to apply for an Electronic System Travel Authorization (“ESTA”) online, prior to using the VWP.

According to the official announcement, Greek citizens will be able to visit the United States without visas under the VWP in approximately 30 days.