Schengen Visa Support
Italy vs Greece Schengen Visa — Which Is Easier to Get? (2026)
Italy and Greece are two of the most popular Schengen destinations — and two of the countries most frequently compared by visa applicants trying to decide where to plan their trip. This guide directly compares approval rates, processing times, documentation requirements, and what each consulate focuses on.
Quick Comparison
🇮🇹 Italy
- Approval rate: ~85–89%
- Processing: 15 days (up to 30 in peak)
- Stricter financial scrutiny
- Many consulates, wider access
- Strong heritage tourism
🇬🇷 Greece
- Approval rate: ~91–95%
- Processing: 15 days (consistent)
- Tourism-friendly approach
- Fewer consulates globally
- Island and beach destination
Approval Rates — The Numbers
Based on EU Schengen statistics, Greece consistently approves a higher percentage of applications than Italy. For nationalities with higher rejection risks (Indians, Pakistanis, Filipinos, Nigerians), the gap can be significant:
| Nationality | Italy (approx.) | Greece (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Indian | 88% | 93% |
| Filipino | 84% | 91% |
| Pakistani | 65% | 75% |
| Nigerian | 55% | 65% |
Figures are approximate estimates based on EU Schengen statistics. Individual consulates may vary.
Document Requirements — Any Difference?
Both countries require the same standard Schengen documents. However:
- Italy: Some Italian consulates place heavy emphasis on precise financial documents and may request additional evidence like tax returns or property documents. Cover letters explaining ties to home country are particularly important for Italy.
- Greece: Greece places high value on accommodation bookings and a plausible tourism itinerary. Having well-confirmed hotel bookings covering every night is strongly recommended. Some consulates request a confirmed return flight (not just a reservation).
Processing Times
Both countries process within 15 calendar days by Schengen regulation. However:
- Italy can experience delays to 30+ days during June–August when application volumes are very high.
- Greece is generally consistent at 15 days, though busy summer periods can stretch to 3 weeks.
- Both accept applications up to 6 months before travel.
Appointment Availability
Italy has a larger global consular network — easier to find appointments in more cities worldwide. Greece has fewer consulates but many countries access the Greek consulate via VFS Global, which is widely available.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose Italy if:
- You'll genuinely spend more time in Italy
- You have very strong financial documentation
- You need a broader consular network for appointment access
Choose Greece if:
- You'll spend more time in Greece
- This is your first Schengen visa
- You have a tourism-focused trip with good accommodation booked
Important: Apply to the country you're actually visiting most
Applying to gain "easy access" at one consulate with plans to primarily visit another country is visa fraud and can result in cancellation of your visa and future bans.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Italy or Greece easier for a Schengen visa?
Greece has a higher approval rate across most nationalities, typically 5–10 percentage points above Italy. Greece's tourism economy makes it generally more accommodating for visitor visa applications.
Is processing faster for Italy or Greece?
Similar — both take 15 calendar days as standard. Italy can lag during peak summer. Apply at least 3–4 weeks before your trip to either country.
Can I visit both on one Schengen visa?
Yes. A Schengen visa from either country lets you visit all 27 Schengen countries including both Italy and Greece. You apply to whichever you visit most.
Does Greece give multiple-entry visas?
Yes, especially for repeat applicants with clean travel history. First-time applicants typically receive single or double entry. Good track record usually leads to long-validity multiple-entry visas.
What is the visa fee for Italy and Greece?
€90 for adults for both. VFS service fees are additional. The fee is non-refundable regardless of outcome.