Greece has rolled out a new digital system that changes how passport applications are processed, marking a major step toward faster, safer and more efficient service for citizens in Greece and abroad.
The new platform, launched on Dec. 31, 2025, allows all local Passport Offices and document intake points to send required application documents electronically to the Directorate of Passports and Security Documents of the Hellenic Police, Greece’s national law enforcement authority. The system was introduced following a joint ministerial decision by the Greek government.
According to the Ministry of Citizen Protection, which oversees the Hellenic Police, the platform was designed and implemented at no cost to the state budget and in full compliance with Greek and EU personal data protection laws.
What the new digital system changes
Officials say processing times are already being cut by one to two days, since there is no longer a need to send documents by courier or post. At the same time, passport officers receive applications more quickly and with fewer mistakes, because key personal data is automatically prefilled through secure connections with other government databases.
This automation also reduces the number of rejected applications caused by incorrect or missing information.
One of the biggest changes for applicants is the elimination of several supporting documents that previously had to be submitted with every passport request. Under the new digital system, citizens no longer need to provide:
- A digital copy of their Greek national ID
- Proof of payment for the electronic government fee
- A certificate showing the outcome of police investigations in cases of a lost or stolen passport
All of this information is now retrieved electronically through the new platform.
The Greek government also expects significant savings from the reduced use of courier and postal services, since most documents are no longer shipped physically.
Higher security and better photo quality
The new system also strengthens the security of Greek passports. Facial photographs are now collected digitally and in higher resolution, improving the accuracy and reliability of biometric data used in passport production.
This upgrade is designed to make Greek passports more resistant to fraud and identity misuse.
What it means for Greeks abroad
For now, the system is being used by all Passport Offices inside Greece. But the biggest impact for the Greek diaspora is expected in 2026, when the platform will be extended to Greek consulates and embassies worldwide.
Once that happens, passport applications submitted abroad will no longer have to wait for physical documents to be mailed back and forth to Greece. Authorities estimate that this could speed up the process by up to 30 days, a major improvement for Greeks living outside the country.
Transition period through January 2026
To ensure a smooth changeover, the Greek government has approved a one-month transition period.
Until Jan. 31, 2026, passport offices may continue to accept paper documents and printed photos alongside the new digital process. This is meant to accommodate citizens who already obtained their photos in printed form before the system went live.
New ID cards will soon be required
The Ministry of Citizen Protection also reminded the public that starting Aug. 3, 2026, anyone applying for a Greek passport must hold the new type of Greek national ID card. This is another step aimed at strengthening identity verification and passport security.
Detailed guidance on passport applications and required documents is available from the Directorate of Passports and Security Documents on the official website www.passport.gov.gr.
