AUSTRALIAN IMMIGRATION NEWS

Valid passport for Australia's Greek visitors

Monday, 29 January 2007

The Greek authorities have announced that as of January 1st 2007, Greek passports issued prior to January 1st 2006 will no longer be considered valid for travel.

Greek nationals traveling on these passports after January 1st 2007 may have difficulties traveling to other countries. The change will introduce new machine-readable Greek passports using state-of-the-art technology to meet the highest possible security standards and qualify specifications.

Any Greek passport issued prior to 1 January 2006 must be replaced with the upgraded passports. Greek passports issued from 1 January 2006 will remain valid until their normal expiration date (five years from date of issue).

Greek nationals planning to travel to Australia on an ETA (Visitor) Visa from January 2007 should ensure they have the new style Greek passport with a valid ETA visa for that passport. ETA's are not transferable and are linked to the passport number of the holder. If a Passport expires or is replaced, a new ETA must be obtained in order to ensure valid entry to Australia.

Greek nationals who are uncertain as to the status of their passport or how to apply for a new one are advised to contact their nearest Greek embassy.