Arrested or in prison in Greece
This guide provides information about being arrested in Greece and what conditions are like in prison there.
Contacting the British Consular network in Greece
The British Consular network in Greece can offer help but will not be able to get you out of prison or get you special treatment because you’re British. Find out what help the embassy or consulate can offer.
Family and friends can contact consular staff at the British Embassy Athens on +30 210 7272600. If you are in Corfu, Crete, Rhodes or Zakynthos you can also contact the local British Vice Consulate.
Finding a lawyer and translator
Find a lawyer in Greece
You should carefully consider getting a local Greek lawyer. Discuss all costs with them in advance.
Prisoners Abroad has general information on appointing a lawyer and legal aid (not specific to Greece).
Private lawyers
Check the list of Greek English-speaking lawyers if you want to appoint your own private lawyer. Ask consular staff if you need a paper copy.
Check and agree fees with your lawyer beforehand. As a defendant, you should be prepared to pay for court fees on the day of the trial. The court is obliged to appoint an interpreter, if you do not speak or understand Greek.
Legal aid
Legal aid is available if you cannot afford a lawyer. It will be provided in felony cases and some serious misdemeanours.
The defence lawyer is selected from a list of lawyers held by the Bar Association and is given access to the case file in order to prepare your defence. You may request the appointment of a lawyer to the prosecutor. If in prison, your request can be submitted through the prison authorities.
The European e-Justice Portal provides information on legal aid in Greece.
Court-appointed lawyers
If the alleged offence you face is severe and you cannot afford a private lawyer, the court may decide you can get a court-appointed lawyer. The decision is based on your financial situation.
You have the right to request a replacement lawyer under certain conditions, if you are not satisfied with your court-appointed lawyer.
You can still choose to appoint your own private lawyer at any time, which you would have to pay for yourself.
Find a translator or interpreter in Greece
You have the right to interpretation and translation in criminal proceedings if you do not speak or understand Greek. You may need a translator to help you read Greek documents about your case.
Do not sign any documents unless you understand them.
You might need an interpreter to help you communicate with your lawyer or at your trial, or for prison visits. You can request an interpreter, if one is not provided. Consular staff cannot act as interpreters or translators.
Search for an English-speaking translator or interpreter in Greece.
What happens when you’re arrested in Greece
You can be arrested and taken to a local police station:
- if you’re caught in the act of committing an offence
- because of an arrest warrant
- if there are legal grounds such as risk of absconding or commission of further offences
The police must tell you in English (or a language you understand):
- why you have been arrested
- the charges or allegations against you
- your rights, including the right to remain silent and access a lawyer
Your rights
When you are arrested or questioned
Access to a lawyer and legal advice:
- you have the right to contact and speak to a lawyer
- you can have a lawyer present during your questioning, or they can represent you in some procedures
- if you do not have a lawyer, the police can help you find one
- you may have more than one lawyer, at your own expense
Information about your case:
You have the right to be told clearly and fully - what you are accused of - your legal rights
You or your lawyer can - see documents from the investigation before you give a statement - request copies (you may have to pay for these)
During questioning
You have the right to:
- take time to prepare your statement
- give a verbal statement or submit a written statement in Greek
- refuse to answer questions (remain silent)
- present anything that supports your defence
Your answers, including any refusal to respond, will be officially recorded in Greek. A second officer or witnesses may be present during questioning.
If you do not speak Greek, you have the right to an interpreter.
Waiving your rights
You can choose to waive (give up) some legal rights and be questioned immediately if you wish.
Contact with family and consular authorities
You have the right to:
- inform a family member or another person about your arrest
- contact British consular staff
While you are held at a police station
Contact and visits
You can receive visits from your lawyer and communicate with them. You can receive visits from family members (the timing and frequency depend on the police station).
Medical care
You have the right to see a doctor if you are unwell. The police can arrange for a doctor, or you can request a doctor of your choice at your own expense.
If you are seriously ill, injured, or admitted to hospital, a person of your choice will be informed.
Food and personal needs
The police may help you arrange special food, at your own expense.
Acknowledgement of your rights
You may be asked to sign a document in Greek, confirming that:
- you have been informed of your rights
- you understand this information
If your rights are not respected, you should inform your lawyer or the prosecutor.
After arrest, you are usually held in police custody before being brought before a Prosecutor or an Investigating Judge.
How long you can be held for
You will usually be brought before a Prosecutor or Investigating Judge within 24 hours. A decision on detention must normally be made within three days.
Personal belongings
Personal belongings may be seized as evidence or for safekeeping. They are recorded in an official report.
Going to court
After arrest, you will be brought before a Prosecutor or Investigating Judge.
Following examination, the judge may decide to:
- release you and drop any charges
- release you with a charge with or without restrictive conditions (for example a travel ban)
- place you on remand and keep you detained to await your trial
If you do not have a lawyer, you can appoint one yourself or request one from the court.
If you do not speak Greek, you have the right to an interpreter.
Being put on remand
You may be put on remand if you’re strongly suspected of committing an offence. This means you’ll be put in prison while you wait for the criminal investigation and trial to finish.
It is used only when there are serious indications of guilt and risk factors (for example absconding or reoffending).
You may be taken to a remand prison or a mixed prison anywhere in Greece.
How long you can be on remand for
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 visiting policy.
Bail
Once formally charged, you may be released on bail if the court agrees 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 must apply through your 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.
Arriving at prison
You will be registered and documented on arrival in prison. Your personal details and health information will be recorded. You may be searched and assigned accommodation.
You will be placed in a temporary cell on arrival. You will be given a prisoner number and asked to provide details such as your name, address, medical conditions and next-of-kin. Your next-of-kin will not be told that you are in prison unless you give your permission.
You can inform authorities if you want your family or Consular staff to be notified.
Personal belongings
When you arrive at the prison, any money, valuables or items you are not allowed to keep will be taken from you for safekeeping. Prison staff will record these items in detail in an official register. You will be asked to sign to confirm what has been taken from you.
Your belongings will be stored securely and returned to you when you are transferred to another prison or released. You will be asked to sign again when they are returned.
You can usually wear your own clothes in prison. You are allowed to keep essential personal clothing in your cell, including shoes and underwear, as long as the items comply with prison safety rules.
If you do not have suitable clothing, you can ask the prison’s social service to provide clothes and shoes.
Your prison cell
Greek prisons use a mix of single and shared cells. Overcrowding is present in Greek prisons. Due to this overcrowding, separation between remand and sentenced prisoners is not always observed.
Contacting the British Embassy or Consulate
Tell the prison if you want the British Embassy or Consulate to know you’re in prison.
Medical check-up
If needed, you can request a medical examination while in detention. Tell the doctor about any medical conditions you already have. The doctor will decide if you need medical treatment.
Contact the British Embassy or Consulate if you need help getting your medical notes from the UK.
Rights and responsibilities in prison
When you arrive in prison, you will normally be given information about your rights and responsibilities. Prison life in Greece is governed by the Penitentiary Code and internal prison regulations. These cover matters such as daily routines, discipline, communication and access to services.
You are expected to follow these rules during your time in prison.
If you break prison rules, action may be taken against you through an established disciplinary process. This may involve a disciplinary body within the prison, and sanctions are applied according to Greek law.
Certain types of behaviour are considered more serious, particularly those that affect safety and order. This can include:
- violence or threats
- refusing to follow lawful instructions
- behaviour that disrupts the running of the prison
You are expected to behave respectfully towards prison staff and other prisoners.
Good behaviour may allow you to access certain privileges.
Prisoners who follow the rules and engage positively with the regime may benefit from measures such as:
- participation in work or activities
- eligibility for temporary prison leave
- consideration for early or conditional release
Your behaviour in prison may be taken into account when decisions are made about these opportunities.
Visits from family or friends
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 you’re allowed
The frequency and duration of visits depend on your legal status, the prison’s internal rules and individual circumstances. Visiting arrangements are organised through the prison administration and may vary between establishments.
During the visit
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 visitors can take with them
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 from British Consular staff
If you are sent to prison, we aim to visit you once after sentencing and then only if there is a pressing need that cannot be resolved over the phone. 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 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. We aim, however, to stay in contact, if the prisoner wishes us to do so.
You can write to us at any time about issues you’re concerned about. If it is urgent, it may be quicker to ask prison authorities to contact us on your behalf.
Money
The British Embassy does not provide financial assistance to prisoners.
Money transfers from family or friends
Family or friends can send you money by bank transfer or via the Greek Post Office. They cannot send you cash in the post. Ask the prison authorities for the bank account information for your family or friends to use.
They must put certain details on the money transfer reference:
- prisoner’s name and date of birth
- prison name
- what the money’s for, for example the prisoner’s private fund account
Prison accounts
You can spend money on approved items, for example:
- toiletries and personal hygiene products
- food and items from the prison shop
- other basic daily necessities
The way money is managed is broadly the same for all prisoners whether remand or sentenced.
How to make a complaint about mistreatment
The British Embassy or Consulate can help if you have been mistreated or abused - it will take all complaints seriously. Tell it first if you decide to make a complaint. It will ask your permission before taking any action.
You can make a complaint either verbally or in writing through various official channels.
Complain to prison authorities
You can raise concerns directly with prison staff or the prison administration. You may need to submit a written complaint. Ask prison staff for the appropriate form or procedure.
Complain to the prison prosecutor (judicial authority)
Each prison is supervised by a public prosecutor responsible for the execution of sentences. You can submit a complaint directly to this prosecutor. Ask prison staff to arrange contact or forward your complaint. The prosecutor can:
- provide legal guidance
- examine complaints relating to detention conditions or treatment
Complain to the Greek Ombudsman
You can also complain to the Greek Ombudsman (independent authority). Complaints can be made in writing to the Ombudsman directly. The Ombudsman can investigate complaints about:
- prison conditions
- mistreatment or abuse
- violations of rights
Your investigation and trial in Greece
Overview of the Greek system
Greece has a national legal system. Criminal cases are handled by Greek courts under Greek law. The system is mostly judge-led. This means judges and prosecutors lead the investigation. The investigation stage focuses on:
- gathering evidence
- deciding what happened
- deciding if a case should go to trial
The Embassy or Consulate cannot interfere with the Greek judicial system. It cannot ask for your case to be judged more quickly just because you are British, or ask the authorities to waive any penalties.
Courts in Greece
Different courts deal with different types of cases.
Less serious offences are heard by one or three judges’ courts. More serious offences (felonies) are heard by Mixed Jury Courts. These include judges and member of the public acting as jurors.
Appeals are heard by higher courts. The highest court is the Supreme Court (Areios Pagos).
Pleas (guilty / not guilty)
There is no formal “plea” stage like in the UK. You do not usually enter a guilty or not guilty plea. Instead, the court reviews the evidence and decides if you are guilty.
Main stages of a case
A case usually follows these steps:
- Investigation:
- evidence is gathered
- witnesses may be interviewed
- File sent to prosecutor:
- prosecutor reviews the evidence
- Decision on the case:
- case goes to trial, or
- case is closed
- Trial (hearing):
- court examines evidence
- court decides if you are guilty
- Sentence (if convicted):
- court decides the sentence
- Appeal:
- you may challenge the decision
- the case may go to a higher court
How long cases take
There is no fixed time for cases. It depends on how serious the offence is, how complex the case is and court availability.
If you are arrested:
- you must be brought before a judge within 24 hours
- a decision on detention is usually made within 3 days
- some procedures have strict deadlines (for example, objections to certain decisions).
Delays can happen.
Which court will hear your case
The type of court depends on how serious the offence is. You will be told the court handling your case in:
- official court documents
- your summons (notice to attend court)
Investigation stage (pre-trial)
What happens
Police and judicial authorities gather evidence. This may include:
- witness statements
- documents
- expert reports
The aim is to decide if an offence has been committed and if someone should go to trial.
Who is involved
- police
- public prosecutor
- investigating judge (in more serious cases)
If you are detained
You will appear before a judge usually within 24 hours. A judge will decide whether you:
- are released, or
- remain in custody
Pre-trial detention is not automatic. It may be used in serious cases or if there is risk of:
- absconding
- reoffending
Referral to trial
At the end of the investigation the case file is sent to the prosecutor. The prosecutor reviews the case and decides what should happen next. The court will order a trial, order further investigation or close the case. You will receive a formal notice if your case goes to trial.
Trial
Before the trial
You, or your appointed lawyer, will receive a summons with the court name, the date and time and details of the charge(s).
During the trial
The court examines all the evidence. Judges (and jurors in serious cases) hear the case.
Decision
If you are found not guilty, you are acquitted. If you are found guilty, you are convicted.
Sentencing
If convicted, the court decides your sentence.
Types of sentences
Greek criminal penalties can include custodial sentences (imprisonment), financial penalties, and other sanctions depending on the offence and legal framework.
Appeals
You can usually appeal a decision. The prosecution may also appeal in some cases.
Types of appeal
- appeal (έφεση) is when a case is reviewed by a higher court
- cassation (αναίρεση) is the legal review of a case by the Supreme Court
Time limits for appeals
Deadlines to appeal are strict. They depend on
- the type of decision
- how and when you were notified
You should check your exact deadline with your lawyer.
What happens if you appeal
A higher court reviews your case. It may
- confirm the decision
- change the decision
Final decisions
If no appeal is made (or it is rejected)
- the decision becomes final
- the sentence is enforced
Prison conditions in Greece
Prison conditions in Greece vary. While the law sets minimum standards, in practice some prisons face issues such as overcrowding, limited resources and ageing infrastructure.
Types of prison
- type A prisons – for remand prisoners and those serving shorter sentences
- type B prisons – for prisoners serving longer or more serious sentences
- special facilities – including therapeutic and juvenile institutions
- rural or agricultural prisons – which may have more open or semi‑open regimes
These different types of prisons operate under different regimes and may offer different conditions and opportunities.
Find a map of all prison facilities and their contact details in Greece (in Greek)
Official monitoring bodies (including the Council of Europe Committee for the Prevention of Torture) have identified issues in parts of the prison system, including:
- overcrowding
- poor conditions in some prisons
- limited access to healthcare and activities
Further information: Council of Europe CPT reports
If you have concerns about prison conditions, you should:
- Raise the issue in the prison
- Seek legal advice
- Contact external support: Greek Ombudsman (independent authority)
Letters and packages
Friends and family can send mail to the prison for you. Mail is usually not read or censored but this may depend on prison rules. 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.
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. You cannot 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.
Video calls
Speak to prison authorities about whether a video call with a family member is available in the facility you are in.
Medical and dental treatment
Your basic medical needs must be met while you’re detained in Greece. You are entitled to the same level of healthcare as the rest of the population. Access may involve waiting times and referrals to hospitals.
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.
Drug and alcohol addiction
If you have a drug or alcohol problem:
- speak to prison staff
- speak to your lawyer or prison social services
- ask to be referred to a treatment or counselling programme
Mental health care
Talk to a doctor as soon as possible if you feel you need treatment for your mental health. If, for example, you have depression or anxiety.
Food and diet
Food is provided by the prison and you can purchase extra provisions at the prison shop. If products are not found in the prison shop, you can request them from outside at your expense and via the prison system. Rules on permitted items vary.
Prison shop
Most prisons in Greece have a prison shop. You can use this to buy items that are not provided by the prison, using money from your prison account. You can buy approved items, such as:
- food and drink
- toiletries
- telephone cards
Prison shops are usually open at specific times during the week. If you need more information, ask prison staff. Items sold at the prison shop vary from one prison to another. You can be informed on arrival regarding items sold in the shop and items permitted to be brought in from family.
Work and study
You can apply for work within the prison depending on your legal status, the prison regime and the availability of positions. 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 your lawyer.
Books, languages, activities and study
Some prisons in Greece have some English-language books and magazines in their libraries.
TVs are sometimes available or obtainable at your expense.
Prisoners Abroad might be able to send some reading material, language textbooks and dictionaries.
Courses and study
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.
Exercise
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.
Clothing
You can wear clothes of your choice. Ask social service for clothes and shoes, if you need to.
Religion
You can practise your religion in a chapel or designated space and request visits from religious representatives. In addition, you have the right to request a special diet for religious reasons, however this cannot be guaranteed.
Mobile phones
You are not allowed to have a mobile phone. You are expected to use the payphones that are inside the prison and use telephone cards available for purchase at the prison shop.
Transferring to another prison
Transferring to a prison in the UK
Transferring to a UK prison is possible, 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 apply in writing to the prison administration. 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.
Requesting a transfer is your choice, but the benefit 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.
For information about Prison transfers you can ask either the prison authorities where you are serving your sentence or your nearest British consulate.
You can also write to the relevant UK authorities:
England and Wales
Operational Services Group (OS)
Central Operational Services Directorate
HM Prison and Probation Service
9th floor, 1 Ruskin Square
Croydon
CR0 2WF
Telephone: 07540 266945
Email: crossbordertransfers@justice.gov.uk
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland Prison Service
Cross Border Transfers Unit
Hillview Buildings
Upper Newtownards Road
Stormont State
Belfast
BT4 3TA
Telephone: 028 9052 5065 (General Enquiries)
Email: info@niprisonservice.gov.uk
Scotland
Scottish Prison Service Headquarters
One Lochside
1 Lochside Avenue
Edinburgh
EH12 9DJ
Telephone: 0131 244 8745
Email: gaolinfo@sps.pnn.gov.uk
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
- have a valid passport or apply and pay for an Emergency Travel Document if your passport has expired
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. Even if the sentencing country agrees to your transfer, 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 living there.
To find out more about transfers to the UK, see Arrested or in prison abroad - GOV.UK and Prisoners Abroad information on Prisoner transfers to the UK.
Transferring to a prison in Greece
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.
Early release
As a general rule once prisoners convicted of a misdemeanour offence have completed 2-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.
Reduction of sentence (remission)
You do not become eligible for parole until you have served a certain part of their sentence. This amount of time differs depending on the type of offence. You will only be considered if you have exhibited good behaviour whilst in prison.
You can reduce your sentence by working within the prison or at a specific work farm prison. Each day that you work 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.
Clemency or pardon
In serious felony cases the President of the Hellenic Republic can decide to pardon a prisoner.
Your lawyer is best placed to advise you on whether there is a possibility for clemency.
Release and deportation
There are several elements to be considered by the Greek authorities prior to their deciding on deportation: family status, financial and business status in the host country and relationship with the country of origin. You will need to hold a valid travel document in order to leave the country.
Consular staff 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. Deportation may take several weeks.
Flights to the UK
The expenses of deportation and subsistence costs are charged to you. If neither you nor your family can afford it, then the Greek state will consider covering the cost of your flight to the UK.
Getting a passport
Make sure your British passport is still in date. You should apply for a full validity passport well in advance of your release, if out of date. Contact the British Embassy or Consulate before you are released if you need an Emergency Travel Document (ETD) for your journey home.
Help when you are in the UK
If you are registered with Prisoners Abroad you can visit them when you first arrive back in UK for advice,
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.
Useful Greek words and phrases
Key phrases
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I would like to see a doctor | Θα ήθελα να δω έναν γιατρό | tha Í-the-la na tho É-nan ya-TRÓ |
| I would like to visit a social worker | Θα ήθελα να δω έναν κοινωνικό λειτουργό | tha Í-the-la na tho É-nan ki-no-ni-KÓ li-tur-GÓ |
| I would like to contact the consulate | Θα ήθελα να επικοινωνήσω με το προξενείο | tha Í-the-la na e-pi-ki-no-ni-SÓ me to pro-kse-NÍ-o |
| I would like to contact my lawyer | Θα ήθελα να επικοινωνήσω με τον δικηγόρο μου | tha Í-the-la na e-pi-ki-no-ni-SÓ me ton di-gi-GÓ-ro mou |
Useful legal terms (selected)
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| deportation | απέλαση | a-PÉ-la-si |
| decision | απόφαση | a-PÓ-fa-si |
| file | φάκελος | FÁ-ke-los |
| court | δικαστήριο | di-ka-STÍ-rio |
| the accused | κατηγορούμενος | ka-ti-go-RÚ-me-nos |
| charge | κατηγορία | ka-ti-go-RÍ-a |
| application | αίτηση | É-ti-si |
| lawyer | δικηγόρος | di-gi-GÓ-ros |
| judge | δικαστής | di-ka-STÍS |
| prosecutor | εισαγγελέας | i-sa-nge-LE-as |
| evidence | αποδεικτικά στοιχεία | a-po-ðik-TI-ká sti-HÍ-a |
| prison | φυλακή | fi-la-KÍ |
| imprisonment | φυλάκιση | fi-LÁ-ki-si |
| release | αποφυλάκιση | a-po-fi-LÁ-ki-si |
| detention | κράτηση | KRÁ-ti-si |
| remand detention | προφυλάκιση | pro-fi-LÁ-ki-si |
| appeal | έφεση | É-fe-si |
| sentence | ποινή | pi-NÍ |
| transfer (prison) | μεταγωγή | me-ta-go-YÍ |
| interrogation | ανάκριση | a-NÁ-kri-si |
Numbers
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ένα | É-na |
| 2 | δύο | DHÍ-o |
| 3 | τρία | TRÍ-a |
| 4 | τέσσερα | TÉ-se-ra |
| 5 | πέντε | PÉN-de |
| 6 | έξι | ÉK-si |
| 7 | επτά | e-PTÁ |
| 8 | οκτώ | oKTÓ |
| 9 | εννέα | e-NÉ-a |
| 10 | δέκα | DHÉ-ka |
| 20 | είκοσι | Í-ko-si |
| 50 | πενήντα | pe-NÍ-da |
| 100 | εκατό | e-ka-TÓ |
| 1000 | χίλια | HÍ-lia |
Food
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Apple | μήλο | MÍ-lo |
| Bread | ψωμί | pso-MÍ |
| Water | νερό | ne-RÓ |
| Coffee | καφές | ka-FÉS |
| Tea | τσάι | TSÁ-i |
| Milk | γάλα | GÁ-la |
| Chicken | κοτόπουλο | ko-TÓ-pou-lo |
| Rice | ρύζι | RÍ-zi |
| Sugar | ζάχαρη | ZÁ-ha-ri |
Greetings, people and time
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Good morning | Καλημέρα | ka-li-MÉ-ra |
| Good evening | Καλησπέρα | ka-li-SPÉ-ra |
| Good night | Καληνύχτα | ka-li-NÍH-ta |
| Hello | Γεια σας | YA sas |
| Goodbye | Αντίο | an-DÍ-o |
| Thank you | Ευχαριστώ | ef-ha-ri-STÓ |
| Today | σήμερα | SÍ-me-ra |
| Tomorrow | αύριο | Á-vri-o |
| Week | εβδομάδα | e-vdo-MÁ-da |
| Month | μήνας | MÍ-nas |
Useful verbs
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| I am | είμαι | Í-me |
| I have | έχω | É-ho |
| I go | πηγαίνω | pi-GÉ-no |
| I want | θέλω | THÉ-lo |
| I drink | πίνω | PÍ-no |
| I eat | τρώω | TRÓ-o |
| I sleep | κοιμάμαι | ki-MÁ-me |
| I speak | μιλάω | mi-LÁ-o |
| I understand | καταλαβαίνω | ka-ta-la-VÉ-no |
General
| English | Greek | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| Bed | κρεβάτι | kre-VÁ-ti |
| Door | πόρτα | PÓR-ta |
| Money | χρήματα | HRÍ-ma-ta |
| Phone | τηλέφωνο | ti-LÉ-fo-no |
| Toilet | τουαλέτα | tou-a-LÉ-ta |
| Clothes | ρούχα | RÚ-ha |
| Prison cell | κελί | ke-LÍ |
Note on pronunciation:
- θ (th) = like think
- δ (dh) = like this
- γ before e/i = soft “y” sound
- χ (h/kh) = throaty “h” (Scottish loch)