G reece has announced a new policy that will remove visa requirements for visitors from 188 countries, including the UK, Germany, Spain, and the Netherlands. This change, effective from August 2024, is part of Greece’s strategy to boost its tourism industry amidst growing European scrutiny on visitor influx.
Under the new policy, travelers from countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia will no longer need a Schengen visa to visit Greece. This move is intended to make Greece an even more attractive destination, particularly as other European countries impose stricter entry regulations to manage tourism overflow.
However, the policy notably excludes Nigeria, raising concerns among Nigerian travelers and industry observers. Nigeria, with its growing middle class and increasing number of international travelers, is absent from the list of countries benefiting from visa-free access to Greece. This exclusion has led to frustration and disappointment among Nigerian tourists who had hoped for greater ease in visiting one of Europe’s most picturesque destinations.
Greece’s tourism industry is a significant contributor to its economy, generating €20.5 billion in revenue last year alone. With over 33 million tourists visiting the country in 2023, Greece is one of Europe’s top destinations. The Greek government hopes that easing visa restrictions will further stimulate tourism and boost economic growth.
In contrast, Nigeria has faced various travel restrictions in recent years, impacting its citizens' international mobility. The exclusion from Greece’s visa-free list highlights ongoing challenges in global travel accessibility for Nigerian citizens.
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