International Student & Onboarding Guide

Welcome to the University of Patras! This guide is designed to assist admitted international students of the English Medical Program (EMP) with their relocation, immigration procedures, and initial steps on campus.

Part 1: Before Your Arrival (Visa & Support)

International Student Support Unit

For official administrative assistance, onboarding guidance, and general institutional support, you can contact the University’s dedicated office:

  • Address: University Campus of Patras, Directorate of Education and Research, Undergraduate Studies Department, International Student Support Unit, 26504, Rio, Patras, Greece.
  • Phone: +30 2610 997997
  • Email: [Insert the specific support email here]

Student Visa Guidelines (Type “D” National Visa)

Applicants from non-EU/non-Schengen countries are legally required to obtain a Long-Stay National Visa (Type “D”) to enter and study in Greece.

  • Duration: The initial visa is valid for up to one year and must be transitioned into a formal residence permit after arrival.
  • Application Process: Processing times vary by country. You must contact the nearest Greek Embassy or Consulate in your home country as soon as you receive your official Letter of Acceptance to review specific local requirements.

Core Visa Requirements Checklist

  • Official Letter of Acceptance from the University of Patras.
  • Valid Passport.
  • International Medical Travel Insurance (meeting Greek visa specifications).
  • Completed visa application form, fee payment, and attendance at a scheduled embassy interview.

Health Insurance Requirements

To register for the program and fulfill Greek immigration criteria, all international students must hold valid health insurance coverage prior to their arrival. The type of insurance required depends on your country of citizenship:

  • EU / EEA Citizens: You must obtain the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from your home country’s national health provider before traveling to Greece. The EHIC grants you access to necessary state-provided healthcare during your stay, under the same conditions as local citizens. Please note that private clinic fees or medical repatriation are not covered by the EHIC.
  • Non-EU / Non-EEA Citizens: Since foreign national health plans are not automatically recognized, you must secure a Private Health Insurance Policy. This document is strictly required both for your student visa application at the Greek Embassy and for your subsequent Residence Permit in Patras.

Mandatory Specifications for Non-EU Insurance Policies

To be legally accepted by the Greek authorities, your private insurance policy must explicitly cover Greece or the European Union and fulfill the following minimum coverage thresholds:

  • Public Hospitalization & Inpatient Care
  • Medical Expenses & Outpatient Care
  • Permanent Disability Support
  • Student Co-payment / Deductible

Note for Non-EU Students: If your private insurance is issued by a provider in your home country, the contract must be officially translated into English or Greek, clearly highlighting the coverage amounts listed above. Alternatively, you may purchase an eligible and affordable student health insurance plan from a local insurance provider in Greece immediately upon arrival.

Part 2: Upon Your Arrival in Patras

Residence Permit in Greece

Greek legislation mandates that all international students staying in the country for more than three months must apply for an official Residence Permit. This process must be initiated at the local Immigration Office shortly after your arrival in Patras:

Campus Onboarding Checklist

Once the academic year begins and you settle in Patras, ensure you complete the following essential steps:

  • Online Academic Registration: You do not need to visit the Secretariat in person. Your initial academic registration is completed entirely online. Before the academic year begins, your official credentials will be sent to you directly via email.
  • Account Activation & Portal Access: Once you receive your credentials, you must log in and follow the instructions to set up your official academic email account (UPnet ID). This account grants you access to e-class and the student management system at upatras.gr.
  • Official Requests & Certificates: All official certificates and transcripts will be issued digitally through your academic account in the portal. Please note that you must always use your official academic email for any communication, applications, or requests addressed to the University.
  • Academic ID (Academic Passport): Apply online for your physical student card (Academic ID), which grants you student discounts on public transport and museum entries.
  • Campus Services: Activate your access to the University Library, campus Wi-Fi networks, and the Student Restaurant for your daily meals.

📄 Academic Regulations Notice:
For detailed rules regarding your Academic Advisor assignment, semester course renewals, the 10-point grading scale, and exam periods, please consult our comprehensive Academic Guide.