Rights Archives

DISABILITY CARD OR TRANSPORTATION PASS FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES 2026. WHAT BENEFICIARIES NEED TO KNOW.

The new explanatory circular regarding transportation for people with disabilities (PWDs) for 2026 has raised several questions among beneficiaries and their families who are trying to understand what the current rules are. The most common question is: “I have the plastic Disability Card. Do I also need to get a PWD Transportation Pass?” The answer is that the Disability Card has not completely replaced the Transportation Pass. Both of these documents remain valid simultaneously, and the need for one or the other depends on the mode of transportation used by each eligible person. To make this clearer, here’s what applies in each case.

Athens and Thessaloniki: The Disability Card can be used for urban travel

For travel on OASA transit in Athens and OSETH transit in Thessaloniki, the plastic Disability Card can be used by eligible beneficiaries.

Cardholders can travel by validating their card at the designated machines, without needing to obtain a separate Travel Pass specifically for these transit services.

The following are required:

the Disability Card must be valid,
must bear the designated disability level II or III designation,
or the beneficiary must receive disability financial assistance from OPEKA,
and income criteria must be met where required.

URBAN KTEL BUSES IN THE PROVINCE: THE TRAVEL PASS REMAINS NECESSARY

This is the point that has caused the most confusion. Possession of a Disability Card does not mean that the Travel Pass is no longer required for all trips.

For urban KTEL buses operated by the Regional Units, as well as by the municipalities of Kos and Rhodes, a Mobility Card for People with Disabilities is required, even if the beneficiary holds a Disability Card.

Therefore, those who use urban KTEL buses in their area should apply:

at the Citizen Service Centers (KEP),
or at the relevant offices of the Regional Unit.

FOR 2026, THE PROCESS BEGINS ON JULY 1, 2026, AND ENDS ON NOVEMBER 30, 2026.

Intercity Buses (KTEL): 50% Discount on Fares

For travel on intercity buses (KTEL)—that is, for trips from one city to another—a 50% discount is available.

The discount can be obtained with:

A valid Disability Card,
or a Transportation Pass for People with Disabilities.

Thus, for intercity routes, the beneficiary has more options.

Are there income criteria for free transportation?

One point that often causes confusion concerns income. There are no income criteria for issuing the Disability Card.

The income limits apply to eligibility for free transportation.

For 2026, the limits are as follows:

individual taxable income up to 23,000 euros,
declared family income up to 29,000 euros.

The family income limit increases by 5,600 euros for each additional person with a disability of 67% or higher who lives with and is financially dependent on the taxpayer.

It is important to note that: OPEKA disability benefits are not included in the above income limits. A relevant certificate from OPEKA may be required to exclude them.

Who is exempt from the income criteria?

People who are totally blind are exempt from the income criteria.

What applies to the companion?

In many cases, a companion is also entitled to travel.

If the Disability Card is marked with an “S” (Companion):

in Athens and Thessaloniki, the companion travels with the cardholder upon a single validation of the card. For KTEL buses, however, the prescribed procedure and the corresponding Companion Travel Pass are required where necessary.

So, what do beneficiaries need to keep?

The Disability Card is a significant benefit, but it does not mean that the Travel Pass is being eliminated.

In simple terms:

Disability Card:

✔ Athens and Thessaloniki

✔ Intercity KTEL buses for a 50% discount

Travel Pass:

✔ Provincial KTEL buses

✔ Situations where a companion’s entitlement is required

✔ Those who do not have a Disability Card

At Kapa3, we believe that accurate information can save time, trips, and unnecessary hassle, especially for people who already face increased challenges due to a disability or a serious illness.

View the circular here: TRANSPORTATION 2026

DISABILITY CIRCULAR

For more information, please don’t hesitate to contact the Kapa3 team:

📍Athens: 13 Kosti Palama, 3rd floor, (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM)

📍13 Kosti Palama, 11141 Athens

☎️210 5221424

📱6906265170

www.kapa3.gr

info@kapa3.gr

Kapa3 Cancer Patient Support Center and the USTEP Institute announce the launch of their strategic partnership

The Kapa3 Cancer Patient Support Center and the USTEP Institute announce the launch of their strategic partnership, aimed at providing meaningful support to cancer patients and promoting equal opportunities in scientific, social, and educational levels.

The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed in Athens on May 26, 2026, by Evangelia Bista, Co-founder and Head of Development and Operations at Kapa3, and Vasileios Stavrou, Co-founder and Scientific Director of the USTEP Institute.

As part of the collaboration, the two organizations will develop joint initiatives that include:

Organizing workshops and conferences focused on patient education, improving the quality of care, and strengthening the relationship of trust between patients and healthcare professionals.

The implementation of information and awareness campaigns on prevention, symptom management, and combating myths and social stigma surrounding cancer.

Collaboration on national and European programs aimed at developing innovative initiatives and actions with a social impact.

Conducting joint research and disseminating the results at the national and European levels.

This partnership reaffirms the two organizations’ commitment to actively contribute to the creation of a more supportive and inclusive environment for people living with cancer, by enhancing access to knowledge, information, and social empowerment.

The Memorandum of Cooperation is valid for one year, with the option to renew upon mutual written agreement by both parties.

New Joint Ministerial Decision on the 2026 Aerotherapy Allowance: A Detailed Guide for KAPA3 Beneficiaries

At the Cancer Patient Guidance Center—KAPA3, we remain committed to providing accurate and timely information to cancer patients and their families regarding the rights and social benefits to which they are entitled. With the aim of making your daily life easier and ensuring you have full access to beneficial legislative provisions, we present a comprehensive guide to the granting of the air therapy allowance, in accordance with the recent Joint Ministerial Decision (No. 89399 EX 2026) published in the Government Gazette, Issue B, No. 3295, dated June 11, 2026.

The air therapy allowance applies to the summer season of 2026.

The amount is set at 250.00 euros and will be paid as a lump sum to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts on July 10, 2026.

The amount is unseizable and fully exempt from any tax or withholding.

Who Are the Beneficiaries

The benefit is granted to disabled retirees of the State and the e-EFKA. Specifically, beneficiaries are those who fall into the following categories:

a) Pensioners referred to in subparagraphs (a) and (b) of paragraph 1 of Article 6 of Legislative Decree 4605/1966.

b) Pensioners under subparagraph (c) of the aforementioned paragraph 1 of Article 6 of Legislative Decree 4605/1966, who, according to

the opinion of the competent Health Committee for the years 2020 through 2026, have been deemed to be in need of this allowance and belong to the following categories of retirees:

Disabled officers under Law No. 2588/1921 and Law No. 875/1979 on military retirement.
Disabled officers under Law No. 362/1943.

iii. Disabled enlisted personnel under Article 1 of Legislative Decree 1044/1971, as amended by Article 1 of

Law 1043/1980.

Disabled members of the former Municipal Police who were subject to Legislative Decree 330/1947.

Disabled members of the Security Forces under Law 1579/1950 and those disabled members of the Coast Guard,

the Fire Department, and the Agricultural Police who are treated as equivalent to them.

Disabled members of the National Resistance under Provisional Act 1855/1951, Legislative Decree 412/1970, and Law 1543/1985.

vii. Persons with disabilities under Law 1370/1944 (who sustained their disabilities during peacetime while in service and as a result thereof, and

receive a disability pension).

viii. Persons with disabilities from the anti-dictatorship struggle under Law 1543/1985.

Disabled civilians under Law 812/1943.

Disabled civilians under Law 1863/1989.

c) Civilian retirees who sustained disabilities as a result of their service (Decision of the Ministry of Labor and Social Security No.

754.6/117/3912/March 24, 1969) and

d) OSE retirees who left the service and are receiving a pension due to tuberculosis.

3. Who Is Exempt from Payment

According to the Government Gazette, the following categories are not eligible for the air therapy allowance:

Recipients of other benefits: Those who have received or are set to receive a corresponding air therapy allowance from any other source (such as public entities, private entities, public benefit organizations, etc.).

Spa Therapy Beneficiaries: Those who have been deemed eligible for spa therapy for the year 2026 by the Directorate for Reserve Combatants, Veterans, War Victims, and War Disabled (DEPATHA).

New Pensioners: Citizens whose pension is payable after September 30, 2026, or whose order for registration in the Pensioner Registers is issued after October 31, 2026.

What to Do in Case of Non-Payment

If you are eligible but the benefit does not appear in your account by the scheduled date of July 10, 2026, the law entitles you to file a retroactive claim.

You may submit a request by December 31, 2026, at the latest, to the following agencies (depending on your category):

To Section E of the Income Policy Directorate of the General Accounting Office (p. 2) .

To the General Directorate of Public Sector Pensions of e-EFKA (p. 2).

You can contact the Kapa3 team

13 Kostis Palamas Street, 3rd floor (Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.).

Contact Numbers: 210 5221424 & 6906265170.

Email: info@kapa3.gr

Kapa3 in the First Half of March: Actions, Collaborations, and Updates for Oncology Patients

During the first half of March, Kapa3 continued to highlight important topics concerning the oncology patient support, rights, and daily lives through initiatives, collaborations, and informational activities.

Efforts focused both on strengthening access to information and services, and on promoting practical and digital tools that make patients’ daily lives easier.

In an environment where patients’ needs remain complex and constantly evolving, reliable information, enhanced collaboration among stakeholders, and the promotion of holistic care are especially important.

Below is a summary of the main developments from the month.

Collaborations

Key partnerships were strengthened with the Sarcoma Fighters Patients Association, the Hellenic Federation of Persons with Multiple Sclerosis (HFoPwMS), and Doctor Homie, aiming to enhance information, support, and quality care for patients.

Actions & Presentations

Kapa3 participated in the scientific meeting “Cancer in 2026: Challenges and Breakthroughs,” emphasizing the pivotal role of supportive care for oncology patients, while also presenting recent developments addressing their evolving needs. Kapa3 also attented the event “Facing the Challenge of Artificial Intelligence” as we remain focused on supporting dialogue around the opportunities and challenges of A.I.

Patient Rights

Supporting oncology patients remains a central goal of our initiatives. Focus was given to updates on the 2026 constant attendance allowance and improved digital access for patients to their test results.

Digital Health & Research

A new European Commission report highlights the critical role of digital health technologies in transforming healthcare systems, outlining both opportunities and challenges for the future of care.

Awareness

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, reminding everyone of the importance of prevention and early detection.

Oncology patient support remains our top priority, and we continue to monitor developments — more news will follow.

Digital Access to Test Results: An Important Right for Patients

Digital access to medical test results has become an important right for patients in Greece, following new regulations that strengthen the use of the Digital Repository of Diagnostic Laboratory Results. According to the relevant decision published in the Government Gazette (March 2026), public and private healthcare units collaborating with EOPYY are required to record diagnostic test results in digital form within a specified timeframe.

This change is not just a technical procedure or an administrative obligation for healthcare providers. In practice, it represents a meaningful enhancement of patients’ rights, ensuring that every citizen can have immediate and organized access to their medical data.

Digital access to test results now reduces the need for physical documents, printed copies, or trips to diagnostic centers. Instead, results are stored in a unified digital environment connected to the Individual Electronic Health Record. This allows patients to have their test history consolidated, reducing the risk of losing important information.

For people living with cancer, this development is especially significant. Disease monitoring often involves repeated tests, visits to different doctors, and continuous evaluation of results. Immediate access to all data facilitates collaboration among healthcare professionals and contributes to more coordinated and effective care.

Moreover, the obligation to record results is linked to reimbursement procedures through EOPYY, enhancing transparency in the healthcare system. This ensures that only tests that have actually been performed are reimbursed, limiting abuse and strengthening the reliability of services.

It is also worth noting that data management is carried out under the current personal data protection framework, safeguarding patients’ privacy and information security.

Transitioning to a more digital healthcare system is not just a technological advancement. It is a step toward a more human, transparent, and accessible system of care, where the patient has an active role and meaningful control over their own data.

Ultimately, strengthening digital access to test results represents an important step forward in empowering patients and improving the quality of healthcare provided.

Source: Government Gazette, FEK B’ 1503/17.03.2026

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

Update on Constant Attendance Allowance – March 2026

Based on the latest available data for March 2026, the Constant Attendance Allowance, provided through e-EFKA, has been increased and now reaches up to €845–846 per month, depending on the category and insurance status. This allowance applies to pensioners with severe disabilities or serious mobility impairments who require continuous assistance and supervision from another person, following disability certification by the KEPAs.

The year 2026 features increases and retroactive payments in EFKA allowances, including disability benefits, aiming to strengthen support for vulnerable pensioners and reduce financial difficulties in daily life. This adjustment reflects the ongoing commitment to support pensioners with increased care needs.

Eligible Pensioners

Pensioners with a disability rate above 67%, for whom continuous care by another person is certified.
Blind elderly pensioners.
Survivors’ pensioners, provided the deceased had their first insurance before 1/1/1993.

Amounts and Supplements

For those insured before 1/1/1993, the supplement reaches 50% of the pension, up to €671.40.
For those insured from 1/1/1993 onwards, the amount is €173.34.
Employees may also receive an extra-institutional allowance, with a total maximum of €846.
At a social assistance level, the amount can reach up to €380 per month.

For public sector pensioners, the corresponding supplement is calculated at 2.5% to 4.5% of the basic lieutenant salary, depending on the degree of incapacity, and in cases of 80% or higher incapacity, the amount increases by 50%. The allowance is tax-free and protected from garnishment.

Important Note: The official decision on the adjustment is expected to be published in the Government Gazette in the coming days. Once available, the article will be updated with full details and the official Gazette reference.

This increase on the Constant Attendance Allowance, forms part of the broader adjustment of social welfare allowances for 2026, confirming the commitment to support pensioners with higher self-care needs and ensure a dignified standard of living.

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for Kapa3

The Impact of the Kapa3 Internship Programme: 30 Young Professionals in Our First 5 Years of Operation

The Impact of the Kapa3 Internship Programme: 30 Young Professionals in Our First 5 Years of Operation

In the five years since our establishment, thirty young people have had the opportunity to learn and grow through the Kapa3 Internship Programme.

International scientific literature highlights that internships are far more than a first work experience. They serve as a fundamental mechanism of experiential learning, enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge with real-world professional contexts.

Through their involvement in a civil society organisation like Kapa3, interns developed reflective and critical thinking skills—core elements of modern professional education. By engaging with real needs and challenges, students strengthened their professional identity and gained a deeper understanding of their role as future practitioners in health and social services. In many cases, the internship at Kapa3 played a significant role in supporting their transition from university to the labour market, enhancing their confidence, social skills, and clarity of professional direction.

Furthermore, the structured field experiences offered opportunities to build professional networks, a key factor in long-term career development.

At Kapa3, the value of internships is evident across all aspects of our work. We strive to create an environment where students can deepen their academic knowledge, apply their skills to real cases, and map out the next steps of their careers with realism and self-awareness.

The result is a community of young professionals who are both socially conscious and scientifically equipped to contribute meaningfully to health and social care. We are proud to be at the forefront of education and warmly thank our partner universities for their trust and collaboration.

Free and Reduced Transportation for People with Disabilities and Large Families – What Changes in 2025

The Greek state is implementing significant changes regarding transportation for people with disabilities and large families in 2025. The new regulations simplify procedures, expand rights, and make public transport more accessible for all eligible individuals.

People with Disabilities (PwD)
Who is eligible:
Eligible individuals include people with disabilities with a disability rate of 67% or higher, or those receiving disability benefits from OPEKA. Totally blind individuals and holders of a digital Disability Card marked with levels II or III are exempt from income limits.

What changes:

Residency criteria are removed.
The right to free or reduced transportation now extends to one accompanying person, if needed.
Using the Disability Card for OASA, OSETH, KTEL, and Thessaloniki Metro is now simple with electronic or personalized card validation, without additional documents.

Practical use:

Free travel on OASA, OSETH, urban KTEL, and the municipalities of Kos and Rhodes.
50% discount on intercity KTEL routes.
Thessaloniki Metro requires topping up the ThessCard with zero fare.
Accompanying persons can travel without separate validation when accompanying the eligible individual.

Large Families
Who is eligible:
Eligible individuals are large families and their members, according to existing legislation protecting large families.

What changes:

Travel with OASA, OSETH, and KTEL becomes more flexible.
Free or discounted tickets are supported depending on the policy of each transport service.

Practical use:

Simple procedure for issuing travel passes through Citizens’ Service Centers (KEP) and relevant regional authorities.
Tickets are valid for urban and intercity transport services.

These new regulations simplify the daily lives of people with disabilities and large families, reduce bureaucracy, and make access to all public transport easier.

See the Official Government Gazette (FEK) here

Disability Card in Greece: What You Need to Know

The Disability Card was established under Law 4961/2022 (FEK A’ 146, Article 106) and is regulated by Ministerial Decision 16996/2023 (FEK B’ 932/23-02-2023).
It serves as a unified proof of identity and disability, which must be accepted by all public and private entities.

Read the text of Ministerial Decision 16996/2023 (Article 20) here.

In short, the Disability Card offers:

Proof of disability without the need to show medical certificates or documents from KEPA.
Priority service at public offices, utilities, banks, and hospitals.
Free or reduced access to museums, archaeological sites, and cultural events for the cardholder and their companion.
Use of special facilities (e.g., seats or parking spaces for people with disabilities).
Mutual recognition of the Card in EU countries where an agreement exists.

Card format

The Card is digital, but it can also:

Be saved as a PDF,
Be printed,
Be added to the Gov.gr Wallet,
And will soon be available in a plastic card format.

How to obtain it

The process is simple:

Visit the National Disability Portal here: karta.epan.gov.gr
Log in with your Taxisnet credentials.
If a valid disability certificate exists, the Card is issued immediately.
The same process applies for minors or companions using their respective Taxisnet credentials.

Applications for the plastic disability card began on November 18, 2025. The process is carried out as described above (through the National Disability Portal), and the plastic card is sent by registered mail within a two-week period.

For any inquiries, you can call: Helpdesk 210-3007606 or send an email to: helpdesk@epan.gov.gr

KAPA3 continues to stand by cancer patients and their families, offering reliable guidance and practical support so that every patient feels safe and fully informed about their rights and benefits.

For oncology patients who want detailed information on all the exemptions and benefits they are entitled to, KAPA3 has compiled a complete guide in the “Exemptions and Benefits” section of its website here.

Text/adaptation: Ifiyenia Anastasiou for KAPA3