Greece Extends Turkish Visa Program for Aegean Islands to 2026

Greece has extended its visa scheme for Turkish nationals, allowing them to visit 12 Aegean islands for a week, now valid until April 2026. This initiative, initially launched in December 2023, represents a slight thaw in the historically tense relations between Greece and Turkey, both of which are NATO members. The European Commission has endorsed the program, highlighting its role in fostering better connections between the two nations, and over 100,000 Turkish visitors have already utilized the program since its inception. The list of eligible islands has been expanded to include Patmos and Samothrace, further encouraging tourism. Discussions continue regarding broader diplomatic cooperation, particularly concerning maritime jurisdiction issues. The extension reflects a mutual interest in improving ties amid ongoing regional tensions.