Payments under Greece's Transport Equivalent scheme began on Tuesday 7 April. The scheme aims to bring island residents' travel costs into line with those of people living on the mainland.
A total of €22,647,180.13 is being paid to 261,367 beneficiaries for journeys made from 1 January to 30 June 2025.
“The Transport Equivalent scheme affects the daily lives of thousands of islanders. Following completion of all the necessary checks, payments to island residents are beginning to provide meaningful relief from travel costs,” Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Minister Vasilis Kikilias said.
“We continue to pursue policies that improve our islanders' quality of life and support island communities, whose distinctive character is an advantage for our country.”
The payment is the 42nd passenger instalment and covers ferry and air journeys through the Island Transport Cost Compensation mechanism, known as ANIKO.
The expenditure falls within the 2026 Public Investment Programme and is administered through the General Secretariat for the Aegean and Insular Policy, supporting island cohesion and communities.
Instructions have also been issued to process electronic payment orders through the e-PDE Public Investment Information System so that the funds can be credited promptly to beneficiaries.
Deputy Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy Minister Stefanos Gkikas said, “At this critical geopolitical juncture, we are making a significant passenger payment under the Transport Equivalent scheme, settling the first half of 2025.
“Through reform of the scheme, we aim to improve its effectiveness and its economic and social impact on our islands.”
