Applying with an Invitation in Greece: real experience from chats
Short answer
An invitation letter does not guarantee visa approval and does not necessarily speed up processing times compared to standard tourist visas. Always verify current consular requirements with the visa application center, as regulations regarding invitations from friends or property owners can vary.
From real experience
Regarding visa applications for Greece, an invitation letter from friends does not statistically guarantee approval and may not significantly impact refusal rates.
Personal experiences suggest that document preparation is a crucial factor. One user reported obtaining a visa with an invitation for a week-long trip in May after submitting applications in February. However, a subsequent application in June for a July trip with identical documentation resulted in a refusal, despite non-refundable flight tickets. This occurred in Moscow.
✓ 1 report from chats
When applying for a Greek visa based on an invitation from a property owner, ensure the invitation complies with current consular requirements.
Some visa centers may require invitations specifically from Greek citizens. Be prepared to adjust the purpose of your visit to 'tourism' and modify the invitation letter accordingly if necessary. Always verify the latest regulations with the visa application center.
✓ 1 report from chats
Family members joining relatives in Greece may have specific visa application procedures.
It's advisable to inquire directly with the Greek Consulate about the possibility of direct application or specific requirements for relatives, which might differ from standard tourist visa applications.
✓ 1 report from chats
For visa applications to Greece from Krasnodar based on an invitation, applicants are seeking recent experiences regarding processing times and travel dates.
Specifically, there is interest in whether it is feasible to obtain a visa within a month for a trip planned for late August, with applications submitted in mid-July.
✓ 1 report from chats
The processing time for invitation-based Schengen visas is not necessarily faster than for tourist visas.
Experience suggests that processing can take over three weeks, and there is no consistent pattern regarding speed based on the application type.