- Check official sources for visa requirements
- Select a hospital that matches your treatment needs
- Arrange transport and accommodation early
- Plan recovery time and follow‑up support
Traveling abroad for medical care can feel overwhelming, but a clear plan makes the experience smoother for patients and their families. Greece offers modern facilities, a welcoming culture and a climate that supports healing. This guide walks you through the practical steps from the moment you decide to seek treatment to the weeks after you return home.
Visa and Entry Requirements
Understanding the Basics
Visitors who need medical care in Greece typically apply for a short‑term stay visa. The exact category depends on the length of stay and the purpose of the visit. Because regulations can change, always verify the latest information on the official government visa website or contact the nearest Greek embassy.
What to Prepare
- A valid passport with at least six months remaining.
- A letter from the treating hospital confirming the appointment and expected duration of care.
- Proof of sufficient funds or a travel insurance policy that covers medical expenses.
- Any required medical documentation, such as recent test results.
Where to Find Official Guidance
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Greece maintains an up‑to‑date portal. Embassies also provide printed or online checklists. Use these sources rather than third‑party blogs for the most reliable information.
Choosing the Right Hospital
Greece’s private sector includes several internationally accredited centres. Selecting a hospital should be based on the specialty you need, the language services offered and the overall patient experience.
- Agios Loukas Clinic (Thessaloniki) – Cardiology, General Surgery, Neurosurgery, Oncology, Orthopaedics, Obstetrics.
- Athens Medical Center (Athens) – Cardiac Surgery, Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Neurosurgery, Orthopaedics, IVF, Check‑ups.
- Embryolab Fertility Clinic (Thessaloniki) – IVF, Egg Donation, Embryo Freezing, Fertility Testing, Genetic Testing (PGT).
- Euroclinic Athens (Athens) – General Surgery, Orthopaedics, Cardiology, Urology, Paediatrics, Check‑ups.
- Euromedica General Clinic (Thessaloniki) – General Surgery, Cardiology, Orthopaedics, Urology, Paediatrics, Check‑ups.
- European Interbalkan Medical Center (Thessaloniki) – Robotic Surgery, Cardiac Surgery, Neurosurgery, Oncology, Orthopaedics, IVF, Check‑ups; accredited by TEMOS and Global Healthcare Accreditation (GHA).
- Henry Dunant Hospital Center (Athens) – Cardiology, Oncology, Thoracic Surgery, Orthopaedics, Neurology, Check‑ups.
- Hygeia Hospital (Athens) – Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Orthopaedics, Neurosurgery, Check‑ups; JCI accredited.
- IASO Hospital (Athens) – Obstetrics, Gynaecology, IVF and Fertility, Breast Care, Paediatrics; TEMOS accredited.
- Metropolitan General (Athens) – General Surgery, Cardiology, Oncology, Orthopaedics, Urology, Check‑ups.
- Metropolitan Hospital (Piraeus) – Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery, Oncology, Robotic Surgery, Orthopaedics, Neurosurgery, Bariatric Surgery.
- Mitera Hospital (Athens) – Obstetrics, Gynaecology, IVF and Fertility, Neonatal Care, Paediatrics.
When you contact a centre, ask about:
- Availability of English‑speaking staff.
- Options for a written cost estimate before travel.
- Coordination of pre‑operative assessments.
- Post‑procedure follow‑up arrangements.
Pre‑Travel Logistics
Flights and Airport Transfer
Major international flights land at Athens International Airport (ATH) and Thessaloniki Airport (SKG). Choose a flight that allows enough time for a pre‑procedure appointment, if required. Many hospitals partner with local transport services that can arrange a private car or shuttle directly to the facility.
Accommodation
Consider staying close to the hospital to reduce daily travel. Options include:
- Hotel rooms with short‑term rates.
- Serviced apartments that provide kitchen facilities.
- Hospital‑affiliated guest houses, where available.
If you travel with a companion, verify that the accommodation can host two guests comfortably.
Medical Documentation
Before you depart, gather the following in a portable folder:
- Recent imaging reports, lab results and specialist letters.
- A list of current medications, including dosages.
- Any allergy information.
- Your health insurance card and a copy of the policy.
Ask the Greek hospital whether they require electronic copies uploaded to a secure portal.
Arrival and First Day
Upon arrival, the hospital’s international patient office typically greets you. They will:
- Confirm your appointment schedule.
- Verify your passport and visa status.
- Provide a brief orientation of the facility.
If you have arranged airport pickup, the driver will meet you at the arrivals hall with a sign bearing your name.
Treatment and Recovery
Hospital Stay
Most procedures allow for a short inpatient period, after which you can move to a recovery suite or return home the same day. The medical team will give you written instructions covering:
- Wound care and dressing changes.
- Medication schedule (do not alter doses without consulting the doctor).
- Signs of complications that require immediate attention.
Post‑Procedure Care at Home
Recovery in Greece benefits from a mild climate and relaxed pace. Plan for:
- Light activity for the first few days, gradually increasing as tolerated.
- A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and lean protein.
- Adequate hydration, especially if you have undergone surgery.
- Follow‑up appointments scheduled before you leave the country, with the possibility of tele‑medicine visits after you return home.
Practical Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Currency: While you will not need to discuss prices, having some local cash can simplify small purchases.
- Language: Basic Greek phrases such as “thank you” (ευχαριστώ) and “help” (βοήθεια) are appreciated, but most hospital staff speak English.
- Time Zone: Greece is two hours ahead of Central European Time; adjust medication timing accordingly.
- Emergency Numbers: Dial 112 for medical emergencies.
- Travel Insurance: Choose a policy that covers medical evacuation, in case a complication requires care outside Greece.
Coordinating Through a Facilitator
For patients who prefer a single point of contact, Get Well Tour can help arrange hospital selection, a written cost estimate, visa guidance, airport pickup, accommodation and post‑treatment follow‑up. Their service aims to reduce administrative stress so you can focus on recovery.
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Frequently Asked Questions
[{
"question": "Do I need a separate medical visa for each treatment?",
"answer": "Visa categories depend on the length and purpose of stay, not on the number of procedures. Verify the appropriate visa type on the official government website or with the Greek embassy."
}, {
"question": "Can I bring my own medication to Greece?",
"answer": "Yes, but keep the medication in its original packaging, accompanied by a doctor's prescription. Some drugs may require a special import permit, so check with the embassy or a pharmacy in Greece."
}, {
"question": "What language support is available at the hospitals?",
"answer": "All listed facilities provide English‑speaking staff for consultations, nursing care and administrative assistance. Ask the hospital directly for any additional language services you may need."
}, {
"question": "How long should I plan to stay after a surgical procedure?",
"answer": "The required stay varies with the type of surgery and individual recovery. Your surgeon will give a personalized recommendation, and many patients stay a few days to a week for observation."
}, {
"question": "Is tele‑medicine an option for follow‑up after I return home?",
"answer": "Most hospitals offer virtual consultations for post‑operative checks. Arrange this before you leave the country so you have a scheduled appointment with your treating physician."
}]
This article is general information for international patients and is not medical advice. Please consult a qualified doctor about your own condition.