New Fines for Fare Evasion in Athens and Thessaloniki Public Transport
Athens, May 31, 2026 – New fines for fare evasion on public transport in Athens and Thessaloniki officially took effect yesterday, Saturday, May 30, 2026. The measure aims to curb ticket fraud and ensure fair usage of public transportation services across Greece’s two largest cities.
Increased Penalties for Violators
Passengers found without a valid or validated ticket will now be subject to a fine of 100 euros. For those entitled to a reduced fare, the penalty has been set at 50 euros. This marks a significant increase from previous fines, which stood at 72 euros for regular fares and 30 euros for reduced fares.
Option for Fine Reduction with Travel Card Purchase
To encourage compliance and regular use of public transport, violators have the option to reduce their fine by half. If a passenger purchases an unlimited travel card valid for at least thirty days within ten days of the violation, the fine will be lowered to 50 euros.
Legal Framework and Implementation
The implementation of these new fines is based on Ministerial Decision activating Law 5290/2026, which was passed several months ago. The decision was published in the Government Gazette on May 28, 2026, making the new regulations effective from May 30, 2026.
Impact on Public Transport Usage
Authorities hope that the stricter penalties will deter fare evasion, leading to increased revenue for public transport operators and ultimately contributing to better service quality. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize and improve the efficiency of public transportation systems in Athens and Thessaloniki.
Public Awareness and Future Outlook
Public transport authorities are expected to launch awareness campaigns to inform citizens about the new regulations and the importance of valid ticketing. The long-term success of this measure will depend on consistent enforcement and public cooperation in adhering to the new rules.
