Guidance

Information for British nationals detained or imprisoned in Greece

Updated 4 October 2021

This information is not meant to be definitive and is not a substitute for independent legal advice. Neither His Majesty’s government nor its staff take any responsibility for the accuracy of the information, nor accept liability for any loss, costs, damage, or expense that you might suffer as a result of relying on the information. The information contained in this guide is general and factual. You should contact local lawyers for independent legal advice.

Chapter 1: Key points

Overview

If you are a British national and are arrested or detained in another country, consular staff will do what they can to help you, but they cannot interfere with the local justice system, get you out of jail or pay for services such as a lawyer. Information about who we can help, including the circumstances in which we can assist dual nationals, is available at: Support for British nationals abroad.

This information pack is designed to give you, and your family and friends, information about the local system in Greece and who can help. A printed copy is provided to those in prison or in custody.

We welcome feedback to help us improve the information we can provide to others.

Contacting us

If you are arrested or detained in Greece:

• the Greek authorities should ask whether you want them to contact the British Consulate (and must do so if you want them to).
• even if they do not ask, you can make the request yourself, and should do so, particularly if you are charged with a serious offence or need any kind of assistance.
• the Greek authorities may notify the British Consulate even if you don’t want anyone to know that you have been arrested.
• friends or family can also contact the local British Consulate or the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) in London on +44 (0)20 7008 5000

Who we are

In general, consular staff work in the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office in London, and in British embassies, high commissions and consulates overseas. Contact details of all British consular offices in Greece:

	telephone no	fax no	address	office hours	web enquiry form
British Embassy Athens	(+30) 210 7272600	(+30) 210 7272720	Ploutarchou 1, Kolonaki 10675 Athens, Greece	Mon-Fri 08.00 – 15.00	http://www.gov.uk/contact-consulate-athens
British Vice Consulate Corfu	(+30) 26610 23457	(+30) 26610 37995	Mantzarou 18, 1st floor, 49100, Corfu, Greece	Mon-Fri 08.00 – 15.00	http://www.gov.uk/contact-consulate-corfu
British Vice Consulate Crete	(+30) 2810 224012	(+30) 2810 243935	Thalita 17, Ag. Dimitrios Sq., 71202, Heraklion, Crete, Greece	Mon-Fri 08.00 – 15.00	http://www.gov.uk/contact-consulate-crete
British Vice Consulate Rhodes	(+30) 22410 22005	(+30) 22410 24473	Gr. Lambraki 29, 85100, Rhodes, Greece	Mon-Fri 08.00 – 15.00	http://www.gov.uk/contact-consulate-rhodes
British Vice Consulate Zakynthos	(+30) 26950 22906	(+30) 26950 22972	Foskolou 28, 29100, Zakynthos, Greece	Mon-Fri 08.00 – 15.00	http://www.gov.uk/contact-consulate-zakynthos

You can also contact us by phone 24/7 for help or advice from anywhere in the world by calling the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office on +44 (0)20 7008 5000.

What we can do

The FCDO can offer you impartial and non-judgemental help. Once notified of your arrest or detention, consular staff will aim to contact you as soon as possible so that we can assess how we can help you. We then aim to help according to your individual circumstances and local conditions: our priority is to aid those British nationals overseas that need our help the most.

In Greece, notification by the authorities to the Consulate normally takes place the next working day.

Once we are notified, we aim to contact you as soon as possible.

We can:

• provide a list of local English-speaking lawyers and interpreters. See also What kind of legal assistance is available?
• provide general information about the country, detention conditions, and the local legal system (including if legal aid is available)
• provide general information about the local prison or remand system, including visiting arrangements, mail and censorship, privileges, and welfare services
• keep in regular contact with you, either by visiting or by telephone/letter. The frequency of contact will depend on local conditions and your personal circumstances
• tell the police or prison doctor, with your permission, about any medical or dental problems including medication
• put you, or your family, in touch with a prisoners’ welfare charity called Prisoners Abroad
• in some circumstances we may be able to help take up complaints with the police or prison authorities about ill treatment, personal safety, or discrimination, if you are not treated in line with internationally recognised standards
• help to transfer money to you from your friends or family
• in some circumstances we may be able to help you apply for a transfer to a prison in the UK

What we can’t do

• get you out of prison or detention
• help you get special treatment
• offer legal advice, start legal proceedings or investigate a crime
• pay for any costs as a result of being arrested
• forward you packages sent by friends or family
• prevent authorities from deporting you after release

First steps

Can you / will you tell my family?

If you want us to, we can tell your family or friends that you have been detained and can provide them with information about how to contact you in prison or detention. With your consent, we can also keep them updated on your well-being.
If you are not sure about informing your family, we can help you consider the impact that not doing so might have. For example, it may cause them distress if they do not know where you are or cannot contact you. It can also be a disadvantage to you if you need someone to send you money or act on your behalf while you are detained.

Will the UK police be informed?

If you are accused of certain serious offences, such as sexual assault or drugs trafficking, we are obliged to share information about your arrest with UK police. It is therefore possible that information about this may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check were carried out by a prospective employer. There may be other circumstances in which information about you may need to be shared by ourselves or authorities in Greece.

Do I need a lawyer? / How can I find a lawyer?

Although we cannot give legal advice, start legal proceedings, or investigate a crime, we can offer basic information about the local legal system, including whether a legal aid scheme is available. Please consult our list of local interpreters and list of local English-speaking lawyers. See also What kind of legal assistance is available?. You will want to consider the benefits of local legal representation and to discuss all the costs beforehand with the legal representative. In no circumstances can we pay your legal or interpretation costs.

Can you get me out of prison?

We cannot get you out of prison or detention, nor can we get special treatment for you because you are British. However, if you are not treated in line with internationally accepted standards, we will consider whether to approach local authorities. This may include if your trial does not follow internationally recognised standards for fair trial or is unreasonably delayed compared to local cases.

Who else can help me?

We can put you, or your family, in touch with Prisoners Abroad, a UK charity which supports British citizens detained overseas and their families. Please read Chapter 4 of this guide for more information.

Chapter 2: Detention conditions in Greece

Visits – friends and family

Can my family and friends visit me? How can I arrange a visit?

Your family can contact the FCDO/Embassy/Consulate/lawyer for relevant information on arranging a visit. Relatives need to carry formal proof of their relationship with you, such as a birth or marriage certificate. For friends and family members who do not have the same surname as you, they can only visit after you have sought permission from the prison authorities.

How many visits am I allowed?

You have the right to receive at least half-hour visits from your spouse and relatives, if you wish. The frequency of the visits you are allowed depends on your status:

• once a week, if you have been convicted
• twice a week, if your trial is pending
• unlimited visits, if you are a debtor or awaiting deportation

With permission from the Prison Committee you can have:

• visits from other people at least once a fortnight
• visits from spouses and children in a suitable room without partition
• visits from other persons or institutions that may have a positive influence on you
• visits from consular staff if you are a foreign national

With permission from the supervising Prosecutor, you can:

• meet with a spouse or relative who is detained in the same prison
• if you are a mother, you have the right to have your child or children up to the age of 3 with you, in an appropriately designated area
• if you have no family or contact with relatives, you can ask social services to allow you visits from a person that can support you
• your lawyer can visit you during visiting hours without any limitation on duration or frequency

Visits from family and lawyers can be arranged between:

• 8am to 11am and 3pm to 30 mins before sunset (during winter)
• 8am to 11am and 3pm to 6pm (during summer)

Applications for visits are channelled through the prison council. Extra visits may be allowed if there are special or compassionate reasons, but this must be applied for.

What can visitors expect?

Visitors must identify themselves when they arrive at the prison by showing an identification document containing a photograph (e.g. passport) and any additional documentation requested by the prison council. This is held by the prison and returned at the end of the visit. Visitors will go through security checks similar to the ones conducted at an airport, before entering the prison. Mobile phones and metal items are not permitted inside the prison. Visits are monitored by prison guards.

What can visitors bring?

You can receive items from visitors subject to prior approval from the prison authorities. Visitors cannot bring cigarettes, tobacco or fresh fruit. Prisons in Greece usually have a ‘prison shop’ where items can be purchased. You can request information from the prison authorities about permitted items. Visitors can also check with the FCDO, prior to visiting, to confirm if a list of permitted items is available.

Visits – Consular staff

If you are sent to prison, we aim to visit you once after sentencing - and then only if there is a real need. You will be called to the normal prison visiting area for a consular visit. You can also contact us by telephone during office hours or ask prison guards to contact us on your behalf. Visits sometimes may be restricted or delayed due to prison issues, i.e., strikes, transfers etc. As prisons in Greece meet the international standards, regular visits are not considered necessary; nevertheless, we aim to keep in touch. You can write to us on the above contact details at any time, on matters of concern.

Police custody and initial arrival at prison

Arrival at the police station and basic rights

According to Greek law, you have the right to:

• present yourself with a lawyer
• be informed of whether you are entitled to free legal advice
• be informed of the charge against you
• be informed of the maximum amount of time that you will be deprived of your freedom before you appear in court
• be assisted by an interpreter and ask to be provided with all legal documents of the procedure translated into your native language
• remain silent in order not to incriminate yourself
• notify your consular authorities, plus one more person of your preference
• be provided with appropriate medical care in urgent medical cases
• be informed about the legal ways to contest an illegal arrest or detainment

You should be informed either in writing or verbally of your rights in a language that you understand. If you are given documents to sign, ensure that you understand what you are signing.

An arrest without a warrant is illegal in Greece, unless in cases of blatant offences (“being caught in the act”). The offence is considered to be blatant when the following criteria are met:

• either the offender is being pursued by the police, or
• the victim or witnesses pursue the offender, or
• the offender is being caught shortly after the offence is committed, with traces/marks of the offence on them.

An arrest without a warrant must take place within 24 hours after the commission of the crime. You should be taken before the Public Prosecutor within 24 hours of your arrest. The police in Greece may notify the British consular network when a British national is arrested without seeking their consent to do so. The notification is done in writing and usually takes place the next working day.

If you wish to speak to a consular officer immediately upon your arrest, you are entitled to do so and can ask a police officer to make a phone call to the nearest British consular office. It is within your rights to make a second phone call to let someone else know of your detention, as well as to speak to a lawyer.

Detention without charge in a police station is usually for a few hours, during which an interrogation takes place by the police officers. The law strictly specifies that detention without charge must be limited only to the necessary time.

For more information about procedures following an arrest, please refer to Chapter 3: The Greek judicial system

Initial arrival at prison

When sentenced and transferred to prison you will normally be led to the admissions office in order to give personal details and any relevant information. Medical checks might be carried out by the prison doctor in order to assess if you need any treatment for ongoing medical conditions. Personal belongings will be kept at the prison and a receipt will be given to you. The prison will not be held responsible for any items not recorded correctly. Prison procedures will be explained to you by the Prison Governor or Prison Social Worker.

Prison: conditions and daily life

Accommodation

There are around 30 prisons in Greece and over-crowding is a problem. Here is a map of where each prison is located and their contact details. See also Annex 7. The number of inmates to each cell entirely depends on the size of the cell and the number of prisoners in the particular prison. Women’s prisons are separate to the men’s. Each cell has a toilet and wash basin. Showers are mostly separate and shared with the other cells.

Work and study

Prisoners can apply for work within the prison once they have been tried and sentenced. Working in prison is not meant to be punitive or oppressive and can count towards the time served. Applications are submitted to and decided by the Prisoners Work Council. Prisons offer placements for ancillary work or services to accommodate operational needs. There are also agricultural or craft work units. Waiting lists for jobs are often long. Some prisons also offer voluntary workshops i.e., making of pottery or faux bijoux which are subsequently sold, and a portion of the proceeds may be credited to the detainee.

Some prisons also offer educational programmes. Social services can inform you about the ones available in the prison you are detained. These can include primary and secondary education, ‘second chance school’, technical vocational studies and foreign languages. The qualification gained from each programme is equivalent to the public school / institution outside the prison.

Special measures, towards the education of foreign prisoners, are given in the prison that is capable of supporting such programmes. Prisoners can continue their studies and the period of time allocated to this cause is counted towards the time served. Further information can be discussed with the Prison’s Council or through a lawyer.

Food and diet

Food is provided in the prison. However, the Mediterranean diet is not to everyone’s liking and you can purchase extra provisions at the prison shop. If products are not found in the prison shop, prisoners can request them from outside at their expense and via the prison system. Greece has a large number of prison facilities and regulations about permitted items. Items sold at the prison shop vary from one prison to another. Detainees can be informed on arrival regarding items sold in the shop and items permitted to be brought in from family.

Leisure and entertainment

Learning the language: speaking Greek will help you understand what is going on, enable you to communicate your needs and also ease the boredom and mental isolation of prison life. You should ask if there are any lessons available in the prison to learn the language. In addition, there may be other vocational courses for you to join. TVs are sometimes available or obtainable at your expense.

In order for you to maintain good physical and mental health, you will be given at least one hour a day to walk or work out in the prison yard. The prison doctor can assess whether you are able to take part in any physical exercise. Different prisons offer different leisure activities.

Smoking and drugs

Tobacco cigarettes can be purchased from the prison shop but cannot be brought into the prison by visitors.

Drug trafficking between inmates in prisons is widespread. Prisoners or detainees caught with any kind of illegal substances are punished accordingly by the prison authorities.

Prison: access to help and services

How can I receive money?

There are two ways in which you may be able to receive financial assistance while in prison.

• Private Funds: Deposited to you by your family or friends. See Annex 3 for instructions on how to access funds.

• Prisoners Abroad: Depending on where you are detained, if your family can’t support you financially, Prisoners Abroad may be able to send you a small grant every quarter for essentials (enough for one hot meal a day).

The British government does not provide financial assistance to prisoners.

Private funds

While the FCDO does not provide financial assistance to prisoners, we may be able, within certain limits, to send you money from your family.

The Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) operates a “Prison Comfort” system for money transfers to prisoners. Please ask your family to get in touch with the FCDO in order to arrange this.

We are unable to receive payment by credit or debit card, or by cash.

Prisoners Abroad

In addition, Prisoners Abroad, a UK charity, may be able to assist you with funding for prison essentials and some medical care if you are not in receipt of any regular donations from other sources. Please visit their website for more information.

Can I receive medical and dental treatment?

You are entitled to the same level of healthcare as the rest of the population. If you need medical or dental treatment you should ask to see the prison doctor or dentist. There is an appointment system. Depending on the number of patients, prisoners are usually seen the same day or after 2-3 days. Medical attention is free of charge, but the treating doctor may not speak English.

Prison doctors are often the equivalent of GPs in the UK, so unusual or complex problems may be referred to a specialist / hospital outside the prison. Medicine is available in the prisons. If you have a long-standing medical problem and have received treatment for it in the UK, it may be useful if you have your medical records, or at least a report, sent from your doctor in the UK. With your permission, your UK doctor can send the report, via the Embassy/Consulate, addressed to you.

Mail and parcels

Friends and family can send mail to the prison for you. Mail is not read or censored. Parcels can only be permitted once you formally request this and only if prison authorities grant permission.

The British consulate cannot accept parcels or mail on behalf of prisoners. It is advisable that specific information on prison policy is requested from the prison administration office or the prison social worker.

Can I make telephone calls?

There is usually access to a pay phone that takes phone cards which can be purchased from the prison shop. You can make international and in-country calls, up to the balance on your phone card. It is not possible to receive calls.

You can use the phone at designated times. You are allowed to call your lawyer as well as people who have permission to visit you.

You can buy phone cards up to €25. If you can’t afford a phone card, you should speak to a social worker. You can call your relatives at any time if there’s a family emergency.

How can I make a complaint about mistreatment?

If you have been mistreated, please inform Consular staff as soon as it is safe for you to do so. We will then do our best to visit you to check on your welfare, discuss the allegations, and inform you of any local complaints procedures and supportive organisations that you may wish to consider. With your permission, and where appropriate, we will consider approaching the local authorities if you have not been treated in line with internationally accepted standards. If you have been mistreated, please try to see a doctor, obtain a medical report and if possible photos of the injuries you received. Consular staff will only raise concerns with the prison administration at your request and consent.

If you experience mistreatment, you have the right to:

• request a hearing with the supervising Prosecutor, the Prison Governor or heads of sections
• report in writing to the Prison Council in case of any illegal action against you or illegal order from prison staff. If the Prison Council rejects your request, you may appeal within fifteen days of the decision or, if no response is received, within one month of your report being submitted, by filing a complaint with the Prison Council
• you can appeal to the supervising Prosecutor if there are obstacles to your visitation, telephone or other communication and any other matter concerning your fair treatment and safety
• send a letter or report to the Greek Ombudsman or any international organisation. The prison has an obligation to forward them immediately without checking their content

The Greek Ombudsman may visit the prison and talk to detainees. Personnel from the Greek Ministry of Justice may also conduct regular or unannounced inspections in prison and detention facilities.

You can file a complaint at the Ombudsman’s office in relation to:

• torture or other abuse of human dignity
• offences against life or sexual freedom/ health/ personal freedom
• illegal use of gun
• illegal behaviour related to racism/racial segregation/discrimination based on gender, colour, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender characteristics, identification

You can make the complaint either by email or post. Your lawyer may act on your behalf. The complaints must be written and named, unless there are serious reasons for them to be anonymous. The Ombudsman’s office evaluates every complaint or incident and issues a finding, which is sent to the competent authorities, or may decide to close the case without further action.

The Ombudsman’s office contact details are:

Address: 17 Halkokondyli Street, 104 32 Athens
E-mail:press@synigoros.gr
Tel: (+30) 213 1306 600

Chapter 3: The Greek judicial system

Information from European e-Justice website https://e-justice.europa.eu

Overview and first steps

The FCDO cannot interfere with the judicial system. We cannot ask for your case to be judged more quickly or differently just because you are British, or ask the authorities to waive any penalties.

Is the system the same as the UK?

The Greek justice system is different to the British justice system, and in particular how the initial investigation into an alleged crime is carried out. In the UK, the police carry out the initial investigation and then present their findings on the case to the Public Prosecutor. In Greece, a Public Prosecutor works closely with the police and oversees the initial investigation. The charging authority is the Public Prosecutor and the Greek courts. The police officers have only interrogative duties.

Trials in the absence of the accused are also common in Greece. It is important not to ignore any notifications made about the date and place of your trial or you run the risk of being convicted and sentenced in your absence.

What should happen when I am arrested?

You will initially spend some time in a police cell. Officers will interview you, take statements from witnesses and gather evidence. The Police should inform you of the charges against you. You will be taken before the Public Prosecutor who will decide on the course of action. You are entitled to have a lawyer present at all times. You can ask the court to appoint a lawyer for you if you can’t afford one.

If you have any questions about the legal aspects of your arrest, contact your lawyer. Find a list of local English-speaking lawyers.

For how long can I be remanded in custody?

You should be taken before the Public Prosecutor within 24 hours of your arrest. However, there is the possibility that this period may be extended if the police have not yet concluded their initial investigation or either you / your lawyer want to request a postponement to prepare your defence. In the case of serious offences, the Public Prosecutor can refer you to the Investigating Magistrate for further investigation.

What happens when I am charged?

The police will take fingerprints and photographs. These details will remain on record regardless of the outcome of your visit to the Public Prosecutor. Depending on the decision of the Public Prosecutor you may be:

• released without charges
• sent to summary trial - which is heard immediately (very common in the busy summer months)
• released with or without bail pending trial
• temporarily detained in a Greek prison pending trial

What provision is there for bail?

Once formally charged, you may be released on bail if the competent court authorities agree based on the severity of the crime and other relevant factors. If you’re granted bail, you may have to:

• surrender your passport to the authorities
• post a sum of money as guarantee
• report regularly to a police station
• be restricted on where you can live
• have an electronic monitoring tag

If you wish to have your bail conditions changed, including asking for the return of your UK passport, you will have to approach the court via your appointed lawyer. Consular staff cannot become involved in this or ask for favourable bail conditions. The UK Government is also unable to guarantee your bail or pay bail monies. While on bail, you will have to support yourself financially.

The FCDO is not able to facilitate the transfer of bail funds.

What happens if I am detained pending trial?

If you are detained you will be transferred to a prison in Greece. Your passport and other identification will be kept with your file in prison administration.

You may wait a considerable length of time for a first court hearing. Time served on remand will be counted as part of your sentence. The maximum remand period is 18 months. You will be able to wear your own clothes and will not be expected to work. You can receive visitors in line with each prison’s separate visiting schedule.

Trial and legal assistance

What kind of legal assistance is available?

If you wish to hire a private lawyer, you can find a list of English-speaking lawyers in Greece. Prisoners Abroad can also supply information on legal aid, court proceedings and can advise on appointing a lawyer.

You can hire a lawyer for yourself at any time after your arrest. Consular staff cannot give legal advice. Private lawyers may ask for a cash advance before they take your case on. The British Embassy cannot pay legal fees or guarantee to a lawyer that you will pay them.

If you cannot afford a private lawyer you can apply to the prison supervising Prosecutor or the Court Public Prosecutor for a lawyer. The court is obliged to appoint a state lawyer if you do not have funds to hire a private lawyer and you are charged with an offence that is punished with a prison sentence of over two years. State lawyers are chosen from the local Bar Association, but they may speak limited English. To become eligible for a state-appointed lawyer, you may need to submit proof such as:

• a tax return, tax statement, proof of receiving welfare or unemployment benefits, records of court decisions showing that you have been tried without a lawyer, that you have been unable to pay fines or convert sentences into fines, etc.
• a copy of the court summons
• a note from a social worker
• a copy of your personal account statement from the prison’s accounting department

If your application is rejected, you can appeal to the next higher authority within three days.

Courts in Greece

Each category of crime is heard before a separate court. In general, there are two categories of crimes.

1. Felonies: The most serious crimes are felonies. They are dealt with by a felony court which may impose a minimum sentence of five years and up to a maximum of fifteen years. Offenders convicted of life imprisonment can serve up to a maximum of twenty years. Felony courts consist of three judges (sometimes with four jurors). A felony court of appeal can consist of three or five judges plus four jurors in some circumstances.

2. Misdemeanours: Misdemeanour courts consist of one or three judges depending on the seriousness of the crime. A one-judge court can impose a maximum sentence of three years imprisonment, a fine or community service. A three-judge court can impose a higher sentence.

These are general guidelines. Your lawyer is best-placed to explain the process and potential sentences relevant to your case.

If the accused is 12 - 17 years of age then their case will be heard by a one or three judge Juvenile Court.

What happens at the trial?

The Judge (or Judges, depending on the offence) sits together with the Public Prosecutor and the Court Secretary at the bench. One Judge is considered the President of the Court. Serious crimes, such as homicide, murder, rape, GBH, are likely to be tried by a jury court. All documents related to a case and further evidence must be submitted to the President of the Court.

The Judge questions the prosecution witnesses first and then the defence witnesses. The defendant is the last to be questioned. The trial is heard in Greek. The court is obliged to provide an interpreter for defendants or witnesses who are foreign nationals, but lawyers can ask permission from the court to provide their own if they prefer. Consular staff cannot act as interpreters. The bench members confer in whisper, before a decision is issued.

Consular staff will make every effort to attend court on the first day of the trial to offer support to the British National or their family and also to any other British people involved. We can give you general information about court proceedings, but we cannot give you legal advice, nor can we interfere in the proceedings.

Sentences

Sentences depend on the seriousness of the crime. The court may take into account mitigating circumstances, such as repentance or no previous criminal record. If these mitigating circumstances are sufficiently strong the court may impose a lesser sentence.

Sentences of up to three years imprisonment may be suspended. The bench decides whether there are justified reasons to do so and if further restrictions / conditions should apply. Community service may also be imposed as part of a non-suspended sentence for a misdemeanour charge of up to three years. For more serious offences, which carry a sentence of three to five years, you are required to serve at least one-tenth of your sentence, as well as undertake community service.

Your lawyer will be best placed to advise on the length and type of sentences and on the local appeal process.

How can appeals be made?

The accused has the right of appeal against their sentence to an Appeal Court through their lawyer. The deadline to lodge an appeal is ten days from the court’s decision. If the defendant is not present at the trial, the deadline is still ten days and is calculated from the service (notification) of the court decision to the defendant. If the defendant resides outside Greece, the deadline is thirty days from the service of the court decision.

Reaching the end of your sentence

What provision is there for reduction of sentence (remission)?

A prisoner does not become eligible for parole until they have served a certain part of their sentence. This amount of time differs depending on the type of offence. A detainee will only be considered if they have exhibited good behaviour whilst in prison.

A prisoner can reduce their sentence by working within the prison or at a specific work farm prison. Each day that the detainee works counts as two days reduction of sentence. It is for the Prisoners Work Council to decide who should be given work opportunities and the decision may be in favour of those who have relatively large sentences or other dire circumstances. It is an advantage for prisoners to learn Greek to be considered for work. Those on remand/detained pending trial are not normally eligible for work.

What provision is there for early release?

As a general rule once prisoners convicted of a misdemeanour offence have completed two fifths of their sentence they can apply for parole. Those convicted of felony charges must complete three fifths of their sentence before becoming eligible for parole. Parole is decided by a judicial committee and may include conditions, such as that the person remains in Greece and reports to the local police on a regular basis for the stipulated parole period.

What provision is there for clemency or pardon?

In serious felony cases the President of the Hellenic Republic can decide to pardon a prisoner.

There is a possibility for clemency: your lawyer is best placed to advise you on this.

What about any financial penalties?

A fine may be imposed as part of a sentence handed down by a court.

Is transfer to another prison within Greece possible?

If you have been convicted you will be allocated to a prison to serve your sentence. Transfers to other prisons are only permitted when there are exceptional compassionate or medical reasons for doing so. Transfers to farm prisons, where working days count towards a reduction of sentence, are possible once a certain part of the sentence has been completed.

Is transfer to the UK a possibility?

Yes, if all parties agree. Greece is a party to the Convention on Transfer of Sentenced persons under which transfers to the UK are possible. A prisoner wishing to be transferred to the UK should submit a written petition for transfer to the administration of the prison in which they are serving their sentence. This can only be applied for once all the Greek court procedure, i.e. trial and appeal, has been completed and all fines are paid.

The benefit of transfer is that you would be able to serve the rest of your sentence closer to your family and friends. You would also be in an English-speaking environment, and be able to take advantage of the courses available in British prisons aimed at preparing you for release.

The following is a brief summary of the process in Greece:

• detainee expresses a wish to transfer back to UK
• application in writing submitted to prison
• prison forwards application to Greek Ministry of Justice (MoJ)
• MoJ forwards application to HM Prison and Probation Service (HMPPS) in the UK
• HMPPS confirms consent to Greek MoJ
• Greek MoJ confirms consent and terms of return to HMPPS
• prisoner confirms his acceptance of terms of return
• UK police are asked to collect detainee
• the Greek police will escort the prisoner to the international airport

and in UK:

• HMPPS to arrange the escort and collection of prisoners
• 6 HMPPS staff act as escorts. 2 escorts are required per prisoner
• it is not possible for more than one prisoner to be transferred at a time
• HMPPS make the arrangements and cover the cost of flights; however, the prisoner is required to sign a UTR (undertaking to repay) for the cost of the repatriation
• once back in the UK, it would be the prisoner’s responsibility to apply for a transfer to another UK prison

To transfer, you must:

• be a British citizen or have close family ties with the UK (normally through permanent residence in the UK)
• not be awaiting trial
• have exhausted all appeals against your conviction and/or the length of your sentence; or have waived your right to an appeal
• have at least 6 months of your sentence left to serve when you apply for transfer
• have no outstanding fines or other non-custodial penalties

The offence you were convicted for must also be a criminal offence in the part of the UK you wish to be transferred to: England, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.

The authorities in the sentencing country may refuse your request. You should be aware that even if the sentencing State agrees to your transfer, then the UK authorities may also refuse your request. Reasons for this might include if you have not lived in the UK for a number of years and you have no close family resident there.

To find out more about transfers to the UK: In prison abroad: transfer to a UK prison

What are the procedures for release and deportation?

There are several elements to be considered by the Greek authorities prior to their making a decision on deportation: family status, financial and business status in the host country and relationship with the country of origin. Please be advised that you will need to hold a valid travel document in order to leave the country. Consular officers will be able to discuss requirements and procedures. Even though the court may order your release, you may be returned to the prison you were in and remain there until the release paperwork is finalised. In the case of deportation this may take up to fifteen days or more.

Sometimes people find that they face difficulties adjusting to life in the UK once they have left prison. You may find yourself ready for life on the outside but not prepared for living in the UK. Possibly you have never lived in the UK and have no connections there, or perhaps you have lost touch with friends and family. You may simply want to talk to another person who understands what you have been through, to help you consider what to do next.

If you are registered with Prisoners Abroad you can visit Prisoners Abroad when you first arrive back in UK for advice, to take a shower, use their temporary luggage store, make essential phone calls or use a computer. If you have no belongings Prisoners Abroad may be able to help with basic toiletries and finding suitable clothing. If you know your release date in advance it is best to write and tell your caseworker when you are likely to arrive and what help you think you might need. If you have no money and nowhere to go, Prisoners Abroad’s Aftercare Service can help with:

• advice on finding emergency accommodation in the London area
• claiming welfare benefits, including emergency benefit payments if you are destitute
• making appointments with doctors and dentists
• putting you in touch with local agencies if you are not returning to the London area

Later on, you may want advice on housing, looking for work, applying for training or getting counselling. Prisoners Abroad can refer you to the right agency.

Other sources of practical help back in the UK are:

• The Salvation Army – UK Helpline 020 7367 4888, Monday to Friday 8 AM to 4 PM, or contact your local Salvation Army branch, and
• The Prison Fellowship, UK Helpline 020 7799 2500, Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM.

Would I have a criminal record in the UK?

We will not normally pass on information about your case to a third party without your consent. However, if you’re arrested for certain serious offences, such as child sex abuse or drugs crimes, our staff must tell other relevant UK authorities. It is therefore possible that information about this may appear if a Criminal Records Bureau check were carried out by a prospective employer.

Chapter 4: Additional Information

Additional Information

Volunteer workers

Priests and representatives from local church groups or non-government organisations visit prisons. If you wish to enquire about these visits in the prison you are held, please speak to the prison’s social service or administration office.

Prisoners Abroad

Prisoners Abroad
89 – 93 Fonthill Road
London N4 3JH
Tel: +44 20 7561 6820 or, for your relatives in the UK, Freephone: 0808 172 0098
(Mondays and Tuesdays 9.30 am to 6pm, and Wednesdays to Fridays 9.30 am to 4.30 pm, UK time)
Email: info@prisonersabroad.org.uk
Website: www.prisonersabroad.org.uk

Since 1978 the charity Prisoners Abroad has offered practical support and advice to British citizens imprisoned overseas. It is the only UK charity providing this service and it is available to all, whether guilty or innocent, convicted or awaiting charge or trial. Prisoners Abroad is concerned with your health and welfare, both during your imprisonment and also on your return to the UK, through their resettlement service (if you have registered whilst in prison).

They can also provide support and advice to your family during your imprisonment. In order to access any services, prisoners must first register with Prisoners Abroad by signing and returning their authorisation form.

Once you seek help from Prisoners Abroad, the Prisoner & Family Support Service will be your point of contact for advice and information. The type of assistance they can offer will vary from country to country, but generally they can provide you with information, in English, on:

• your rights as a prisoner and issues that may affect you such as health or transfer to the UK
• obtaining magazines, newspapers, books and the regular Prisoners Abroad newsletter
• learning the language of your country of imprisonment
• translation of documents
• grants for food if you are in a developing country and don’t have funds from other sources
• grants for essential medicines and toiletries if you don’t have funds from other sources
• preparing for release
• help for your loved ones, including information, family support groups and, in a few cases, assistance with the cost of visiting

Fair trials

Fair Trials is a human rights organisation that works to improve respect for the right to a fair trial in criminal cases. Fair Trials cannot respond to individual requests for help, but it has produced a range of materials containing information on various countries’ legal systems and useful sources of support. This information is available on Fair Trials’ website. If you would like this information, ask your consular official. You can also write to Fair Trials directly:

Fair Trials
5 Castle Road
London NW1 8PR

Glossary of terms: Useful legal terms: Key phrases – English into Greek

ENGLISH	GREEK Pronunciation	ENGLISH	GREEK Pronunciation
1	ena	Good Morning	kali mera
2	dio	Good Afternoon	kalispera
3	tria	Good Night	kali nihta
4	tesera	Monday	deftera
5	pente	Tuesday	triti
6	exi	Wednesday	tetarti
7	epta	Thursday	pempti
8	okto	Friday	paraskevi
9	enia	Saturday	savvato
10	deka	Sunday	kyriaki
11	enteka	Day	imera
12	dodeka	Week	evdomada
13	deka-tria	Month	minas
14	deka-tesera	Year	etos
15	deka-pente	Today	simera
16	deka-exi	Tomorrow	avrio
17	deka-epta	Tonight	apopse
18	deka-okto	Spring	aniksi
19	deka-enia	Summer	kalokeri
20	ikosi	Autumn	fthinoporo
30	trianta	Winter	himonas
40	saranta	Please	parakalo
50	peninta	Thank you	efharisto
60	exinta	Climate	klima
70	evdominta	Cold	krio
80	ogdonta	Heat	zesti
90	eneninta	Hot	kafto
100	ekato	Rain	vrohi
1000	hilia	Shade	skia
Food	fagito	Sun	ilios
Apple	milo	Sunshine	liakada
Banana	banana	Weather	keros
Beans	fasolia	Wind	aeras
Biscuits	mpiskota	Dry	stegno
Bread	psomi	Wake	ksipnios
Chicken	kotopoulo	Sleep	kimamai (I) / ipnos(the)
Coffee	café	I	ego
Eat	troo	You	esi
Egg	avgo	He	aftos
Fruit	fruta	She	afti
Hungry	pinasmenos	It	afto
Juice	himos	We	emis
Meat	kreas	You	esis
Milk	gala	They	afti
Omelette	omeleta	Mother	mitera / mama
Rice	rizi	Wife	gineka
Sugar	zahari	Woman	gineka
Sweet	gliko	Me	emena
Vegetables	lahanika	My (mine)	diko mou (of me)
Water	nero	Yours	diko sou (of you)
Cup	flijani	Her	diko tis (of her)
Fork	piruni	His	diko tou (of him)
Knife	maheri	Their	diko tous (of them)
Plate	piato	Them	afti
Spoon	kutali	Father	pateras
Bed	krevati	Girl	koritsi
Bed Sheet	sentoni	Husband	sizigos
Blanket	kuverta	Man	andras
Mattress	stroma	Door	porta
Pillow	maksilari	Give	dino
Toothpaste	odontokrema	Here	edo
Towel	petseta	Inside	mesa
Wash	pleno	Open	anιxe
Wet	vregmeno	Stop	stamata
Bucket	kuvas	Want	thelo
Soap	sapuni	Walk	perpato
Shower	duz	Body	soma
Toothbrush	odontovurtsa	Hand	heri
Shirt	pukamiso	Leg	podi
Shorts	sorts	Nose	miti
Socks	kaltses	Ear	afti
Trousers	panteloni	Mouth	stoma
“T” Shirt	mpluzaki	Head	kefali
Shoe	paputsia	Hair	mallia
Clothes	ruha	Eye	mati
Pullover	pulover	Eyes	matia
Lighter	anaptiras	Doctor	giatros
Pen	stilo	Borrow	danizome
Pencil	molivi	Close	klino
Book	vivlio	Closed	klisto
Cigarettes	tsigara	Come	ela
Good	kalo	Outside	exo
Bad	kako	Need	chriazome
Half	miso	Run	treho
After	meta	Stand	stekome
Before	prin	Stay	meno
Later	argotera	Debt	hreos
Now	tora	To Buy	na agoraso
Consulate	proksenio	Money	lefta
Embassy	presvia	Visit	episkepsi
Governor	diefthintis	Visiting Permit	adia episkepsis
Transfer to another prison	metagogi / metafora	Personal Money in Prison	prosopika hrimata stin filaki
Guard	filakas	Head Guard	archifilakas
Bail	engiisi	Local Prison Rules	kanones filakis
Complaint	parapono	Lawyer	dikigoros
Blood Test	eksetasi ematos	Parole	anastoli
Prison Council	simvoulio filakis	Visit	episkepsi
Police Officer	astinomikos	Appeal	efesi
Public Prosecutor	esageleas	Law	nomos
File	fakelos / archio	Permit	adia
Guilty	enohos	Power of Attorney	eksousiodotisi
Interpreter	metafrastis	Release	apofilakisi
Investigating Judge	anakritis	Social Worker	kinonikos litourgos

Annexes

Annex 1

FCDO leaflet: Support for British Nationals Abroad: Summary

Annex 2

FCDO leaflet: In Prison Abroad: Transfer to a UK Prison

Annex 3

How to access funds while in prison

Each detainee has a personal account in the prison and funds can be deposited there for their use and withdrawn as necessary. It is possible for family and / or friends to transfer money through the FCDO in London and avoid paying bank charges (on smaller transfers). Most prisons in Greece will also accept fund transfers via commercial means of money transfer, such as Western Union & MoneyGram; detainees should enquire with the prison administration office if this is the case in the prison they are in and advise their families and friends accordingly.

The various ways monies can be sent via the FCDO are detailed below. Under the Consular Fees Order of 2016/2017, we are obliged to charge for this service. The fee is dependent on the amount that the depositor wishes to transfer as follows:

Amount being sent	Fee
One monthly payment up to £100	Free
Each additional payment or amount of £0.01 - £99.99	£10
Each additional payment or amount of £100 - £499.99	£25
Each additional payment or amount of £500 and above	£50

When forwarding funds, the depositor should add the above fee to the amount that they wish to transfer. For example, if they want the recipient to receive £150, they will need to send us £175 (£150 to forward plus £25 fee).

If other friends and family also plan to transfer funds in the same month, they should consider coordinating payments so they know what FCDO fees to expect. We retain the right to further deduct any local overseas charges we may incur in passing the fees to the recipient.

Should we be unable to pay the funds locally to the recipient, FCDO policy is to refund amounts above £5 to the depositor by bank transfer. In this case, the depositor would be contacted for their bank details. Refunds may take several weeks as our internal processes can only start once all relevant costs have been cleared with local authorities.

Please note that our Corporate Service Centre in Milton Keynes is only responsible for payments. All other correspondence concerning the above named should be addressed to consular staff in Greece.

Please note that we can only advance funds to the person overseas once the payment has cleared in our account.

1. Electronic bank transfers

Payment by electronic/internet bank transfer can be made either using online or telephone banking, or at a local bank or building society. For all bank transfers, the following details will be needed:

Bank:	National Westminster Bank
Account Name:	FCDO Multi Vote
Sort Code:	60-70-80
Account Number:	10012362
Reference:	FCDO case reference number (which can be provided by Consular staff), surname and first name of the person you are sending the funds for, plus country name if possible, e.g.11-THB-123456 SMITH JOE - THAILAND or CON-1234 SMITH JOE – THAILAND
IBAN:	GB56NWBK60708010012362
SWIFT/BIC:	NWBKGB2L

Depositors may also need our bank address which is:

National Westminster Bank,
Government Banking,
CST PO Box 2027,
Parkland,
De Havilland Way,
Horwich,
Bolton,
BL6 4YU

2. By Post

Payments by Postal Order, Bankers Draft, Building Society Cheque or personal cheque should be crossed and made payable to “The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office”. They should be sent to:

Accounts Receivable
Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office
Corporate Service Centre
PO Box 6108
Milton Keynes
MK10 1PX

We recommend that you use special delivery.

Please ensure a note is included briefly explaining who the money is for, why these funds are being sent and quoting the FCDO case reference number. Depositors may wish to use the payment slip below.

If a receipt is required, please include a stamped addressed envelope. Please note that it can take approximately 15 days for personal cheques to clear and for payment to be received.

Please write the cheque guarantee number and expiry date, and the FCDO case reference number, on the back of the cheque. We are unable to receive payment by credit or debit card, or by cash.

Payment slip

To: Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office
FCDO case reference number:
Date:
Please find enclosed funds for:
Full Name:
Country/place the above is in:
Amount enclosed:
Fee to be deducted:
Payment method:
My name is:
My address is:

Annex 4

List of private English-speaking lawyers

Annex 5

List of private Translators/Interpreters

Annex 6

Prisoners Abroad Forms Prisoners Abroad Authorisation Form Prisoners Abroad Family Contact Form

Annex 7

Map of prisons in Greece

Region	Prison name	Contact telephone no. (+30 if calling from the UK)
Nothern Greece	Thessaloniki prison	2310 754933
	Nigrita prison	23220 25856, 23220 25843, 23220 25853
	Kassandra Farm Prison	23740 81510, 23740 31298
	Grevena prison	24620 30080, 24620 30020, 24620 30021
	Komotini prison	25310 32968
	Ioannina prison	26510 41513
Attica	Korydallos Farm Prison	210 4960553, 210 4964068
	Avlona Juvenile Prison	22950 42771, 22950 42773
	Korydallos prison I	210 4950339, 210 4958919
	Korydallos prison II	210 4953323
	Korydallos Prison Psychiatric Ward	210 4958740
	Korydallos Prison Hospital	210 4960733, 210 4946101
Peloponnese	Tiryntha Farm Prison	27520 28051, 27520 26204
	Nafplio prison	27520 22802, 27520 21284
	Patras prison	2610 647441, 2610 647252, 2610 647473
	Corinth prison	27410 85464, 27410 71512
	Tripoli prison	2710 234887
Thessaly	Volos Juvenile Prison	24210 71781
	Almyros Juvenile Prison	24220 51233
	Larisa prison	2410 619905, 2410 619905, 2410 627423
	Trikala prison	24310 30535
Central Greece	Eleonas Rehab prison	22620 71747, 22620 71768
	Amfissa prison	22650 23283
	Eleonas Women prison	22620 89874, 22620 89803, 22620 72177
	Domokos prison	22320 23147
	Malandrino prison	22660 53020, 22660 53060, 22660 53055
	Chalkida prison	22210 83208, 22210 83271
Crete	Agia Farm Prison	28210 31234, 28210 33112
	Alikarnassos prison	2810 223488
	Chania prison	28210 46700
	Neapoli prison	28410 33737
Ionian	Corfu prison	26610 39414, 26610 44994
North Aegean	Chios prison	22710 44272
Dodecanese	Kos prison	22420 25660