The recent announcement of a new visa scheme allowing Turkish citizens to visit ten Greek islands is seen as a step towards easing tensions between Greece and Turkey. This initiative is part of a larger diplomatic effort to address longstanding disputes between the two countries, including issues related to sea boundaries, mineral rights in the Aegean Sea, and the ownership of Cyprus. The new visa terminal on the island of Rhodes will allow Turkish travelers to visit these islands for up to a week without needing full access to the EU’s passport-free travel zone. The move is also expected to boost tourism in the area and benefit local economies.
The express visa scheme was established following a series of initiatives launched by NATO members Greece and Turkey last year as part of efforts to improve relations and enhance cooperation. Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan signed bilateral cooperation agreements during a meeting in Athens, and Mitsotakis is set to visit Turkey in the near future. The visa program is designed to support tourism not only during the summer months but also throughout the year, particularly in areas and times where tourist traffic is lower. The cost of the visa is €60 per traveler and includes a passport check and fingerprint recording at participating Greek ports.
The islands included in the visa scheme are strategically located near the Turkish coastline, making them accessible destinations for Turkish visitors. In addition to the initial ten islands, smaller islands are expected to join the scheme in June, expanding the options for Turkish travelers. It is important to note that visitors to these islands will not be allowed to travel to other EU member states without the appropriate documentation. Turkey has long advocated for relaxed travel rules for its citizens visiting the EU, as part of broader cooperation efforts with member states, including measures to address illegal immigration.
Tourism is a significant sector for the Greek economy, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. In 2020, Greece welcomed more than 32 million visitors, generating over €20 billion in revenue. The tourism industry plays a crucial role in supporting local economies, particularly on the islands included in the visa scheme. The opening up of travel to Turkish citizens is expected to further support tourism in these areas, providing a much-needed boost to businesses and communities that rely on tourist traffic. Overall, the new visa scheme represents a positive step towards enhancing relations between Greece and Turkey while also benefiting the economies of both countries.
