Greece (GR)

Authority: DOATAP (Διεπιστημονικός Οργανισμός Αναγνώρισης Τίτλων Ακαδημαϊκών)

Process: Submit online application exclusively via the e-DOATAP platform (e-doatap.doatap.gr). Required documents: certified copy of original degree certificate, certified official translation into Greek, certified copy of transcript/academic record, certified translation of transcript, apostille on degree certificate (for non-EU institutions), proof of identity, payment confirmation of application fee (via e-Paravolo system). DOATAP issues an equivalency decision (Βεβαίωση Αναγνώρισης) or, for postgraduate degrees, a classification of the level. Standard processing time: 30–90 days from complete submission.

Equivalency service: DOATAP provides both academic recognition (for entry to further study or employment) and professional recognition referrals. The recognition decision states the Greek equivalent level (e.g., 4-year degree equivalent to a Greek Πτυχίο). For EU degrees, recognition may be faster using EU database tools (ENIC-NARIC network at enic-naric.net).

Apostille: All foreign documents used in Greek legal or administrative proceedings require an Apostille stamp (for Hague Convention countries) on the original document. Greece is a member of the Hague Apostille Convention — obtain the apostille from the issuing country's relevant authority before submitting to Greek authorities.

Legalisation: For documents from countries NOT in the Hague Convention: a chain of legalisation is required — notarised copy → authentication by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the issuing country → authentication by the Greek Embassy/Consulate in that country. This process is slower (2–8 weeks) and more expensive.

Sworn translation: All foreign-language documents submitted to Greek authorities must be accompanied by a sworn translation (επίσημη μετάφραση) into Greek. In Greece, sworn translations are carried out by: the Translation Service of the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs (official, slow), or sworn translators registered with the Ministry (faster, more affordable). Cost: typically €25–80 per page depending on language.