Cyprus

Political Environment

The Government of the Republic of Cyprus is Cyprus's only internationally recognised authority. However, it only controls the southern part of the island.

The self-proclaimed 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' (TRNC) controls northern Cyprus. Türkiye is the only country that recognises the TRNC. There is also a heavy Turkish military presence in the north. Australia doesn't recognise the TRNC.

The United Kingdom retains sovereignty over 2 Sovereign Base Areas (SBAs) on the island. Together, the two SBAs cover 3% of Cyprus's land area.

The Republic of Cyprus is a full European Union (EU) member. The entire island is regarded as part of the EU, but Cypriot and EU law is suspended in the areas not controlled by the Government of Cyprus.

Be aware of the political sensitivity of the division of the island. Monitor local news for updates.

UN Buffer Zone

The United Nations Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus (UNFICYP) controls the UN Buffer Zone (also known as the Green Line) between southern and northern Cyprus. Travel between the 2 areas of Cyprus is only permitted at formal crossing points through the UN Buffer Zone (See Local Travel).

You should only enter the UN Buffer Zone at designated crossing points. Attempting entry elsewhere isn't permitted. 

It's illegal on either side of the UN Buffer Zone in south and north Cyprus to:

• Photograph military camps, facilities, personnel, or equipment—or anything that might be considered a security interest—even unintentionally.
• Take photos within the UN Buffer Zone.
• Capture images in any designated military area.

Adhere to 'no photography' signs. Police in both regions strictly enforce these rules.

Violent incidents

Some violent incidents have occurred along the UN Buffer Zone. Rowdy, politically motivated behaviour has occurred among fans at local sporting matches.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent, particularly around the UN Buffer Zone.

Frequent violence also occurs at sporting events.

To stay safe:

• take care if speaking about the division of Cyprus in public
• avoid protests and demonstrations
• monitor the media and other sources for possible unrest
• avoid affected areas
• don't take photos in military areas (see Local laws)
• follow the advice of local authorities

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Petty crime

Bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft happen, particularly in urban and tourist areas.

To reduce your risk of petty crime:

• look after your belongings, particularly in crowded areas
• hold bags and backpacks in front of you

Violent crime

Serious violence, including physical assault, occurs. Media reports have linked the violence to organised crime. Be aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions.

Drink spiking

Drink spiking is a risk, especially in tourist areas. It puts you at a higher risk of theft and sexual assault. Take reasonable steps to protect yourself. 

To reduce your risk of drink spiking:

• never accept food or drinks from strangers
• don't leave food or drinks unattended

More information:

• Partying safely

Theft around ATMs

Be careful when you use ATMs. If possible:

• use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres
• avoid ATMs that open onto the street, especially at night

Scams

To protect yourself from scams: 

• check prices before ordering food and drinks, especially at bars and cabarets
• check that the taxi-meter is on when travelling in a taxi
• be aware of counterfeit products
• check the Cyprus police website for the latest on common scams

More information:

• Scams

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:  

• Cyber security when travelling overseas 

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Cyprus, they can still happen.

Terrorism occurs in Europe. Terrorist attacks have taken place in several European cities.

Targets have included public transport and transport hubs, and public places frequented by foreigners.

European security services have disrupted a number of planned attacks in recent years.

To protect yourself from terrorism:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• be careful around places terrorists tend to target
• monitor local media for new threats
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

Report suspicious activity or items to the police.

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case there are secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

More information:

• Terrorism

Strong seas and rips at some beaches pose a risk to swimmers. To stay safe:

• follow warning signs on beaches
• only swim at approved beaches

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards, including for:

• adventure activities
• water sports and diving
• renting vehicles, such as quad bikes or dune buggies

If you plan to do an adventure activity:

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• use licensed and insured operators
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets, seat-belts and helmets

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Some operators may ask for your passport as a deposit or guarantee for equipment hire. Passports are valuable documents. Never give your passport as a deposit or guarantee.

Cyprus experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:

• earthquakes
• violent wind storms
• forest fires

To protect yourself if there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in touch with friends and family
• monitor the media, other local sources and the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System
• follow the advice of local authorities

Earthquakes

Cyprus experiences earthquakes. While large earthquakes are rare, minor earth tremors can happen.

Violent storms

Cyprus can experience violent storms and high winds in coastal regions.

Winter snowstorms occur in the Troodos Mountains. These storms can block roads or create poor driving conditions.

Forest fires

Cyprus has forest and grass fires during the long dry season from May until October. Fires are most common in heavily forested and mountainous regions and can start with little warning and travel quickly. 

Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

Confirm:

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away
• that it covers travel to both northern and southern parts of Cyprus

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

More information:

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips (Healthdirect Australia)
• Travel health (Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Cyprus. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

More information:

• Medication

Disease

Feral cats, rodents, bats, general vermin and 'yellow fever mosquitoes' can carry diseases that people can catch. Avoid contact with such animals, especially in the countryside or at archaeological sites.

Outbreaks of water-borne, food-borne, insect-borne and other infectious diseases are common in the eastern Mediterranean region and can occasionally occur in Cyprus.

There have been reports of West Nile Virus cases in south and north Cyprus. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

Extreme Heat

Heatwaves are becoming more frequent over the summer months. They can cause heat stroke and exhaustion. Drink plenty of water, wear a hat, wear suitable light clothing, and, if possible, stay indoors during the hottest part of the day. There's limited shade in and around tourist areas. 

Air Pollution

Air quality in Cyprus is variable due to frequent winds carrying dust from North Africa and the Middle East and the use of dirty fuel in electricity production. The air quality further deteriorates during periods of forest fire. If you typically rely on medication to assist with breathing, bring it with you, and ensure you have enough for your visit.

Follow local media and authorities for up-to-date information on health risks.

Public and private facilities in the Republic of Cyprus's main cities are adequate but can be costly.

Medical services in northern Cyprus are more basic than in the south.

Cyprus has public and private decompression chambers. Check the Cyprus Dive Center Association for details.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you may be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Cypriot authorities don't always tell the Australian High Commission they have arrested an Australian citizen. This is especially the case if you're a dual national.

If police arrest or detain you, ask them or your family and friends to notify the Australian High Commission immediately.

Drugs

Penalties for drug offences are severe and can lead to life in jail. Carrying even small amounts of an illegal drug can result in jail time.

More information:

• Carrying or using drugs

Buying property

Buying property in the north of Cyprus can be risky. Legal titles to land can be uncertain.
When the conflict of 1974 displaced people in the north, many had property ownership claims. 

It's a crime to buy, sell or rent property without the owner's consent.

Get legal advice before signing a property contract.

It's also a crime to intend to purchase disputed property. Officials may consider your possession of property pamphlets from the north as evidence of intent to purchase.

You could face criminal proceedings if you cross the UN Buffer Zone with documents about buying property in northern Cyprus.

Drones

There are laws relating to the use of drones in Cyprus relating to what type of drone can be flown without a licence and where and when they can be flown. 

More information: 

• Regulations for Drones (Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation) 

Other laws

It's illegal in both parts of Cyprus to:

• take photos of military camps, facilities, personnel or equipment, even by accident
• take photos in the UN Buffer Zone
• take photos in any military-designated area
• enter a restricted military zone
• export cultural or archaeological artefacts without official authorisation

Marriage laws

If you plan to get married in Cyprus, check the legal requirements before travelling.

More information:

• High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Canberra
• Australian High Commission in Cyprus

Surrogacy

The Australian High Commission can't assist with surrogacy arrangements, provide legal advice, or recommend hospitals or clinics.

Due to possible legal complications, Australians considering surrogacy in Cyprus should confirm the exact location of the clinic, hospital, or treatment facility on the island before proceeding.

Surrogacy in the Republic of Cyprus

Surrogacy in the Republic of Cyprus is highly regulated and subject to strict conditions. Be aware that non-compliance with Cypriot laws on surrogacy could lead to criminal penalties. Before proceeding, seek independent legal advice on both Australian and Cypriot laws.

Surrogacy in the north (the area not controlled by the Republic of Cyprus)

You should avoid pursuing surrogacy arrangements in northern Cyprus. Intending parents should be aware that there is a high level of risk involved and that there are public concerns about human rights abuses, sexual exploitation, criminal networks, and a lack of adequate legal protections for all parties involved. Additionally, the Australian High Commission's ability to assist Australian citizens in northern Cyprus is limited.

More information:

• Going overseas for international surrogacy
• Australian Immigration and citizenship 
• Australian Passport Office advice on Surrogacy

LGBTQIA+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is legal in the Republic of Cyprus, and Civil Unions are recognised. However, they may not be as widely accepted as in Australia. Same-sex sexual activity is also legal in the north of Cyprus but not widely accepted.

More information:  

• LGBQTIA+ travellers 

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

More information:

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Under local laws, you could be a national of Cyprus if you have a family connection to Cyprus.

The Australian High Commission can't intervene with Cypriot authorities on behalf of those considered to be dual Australian-Cypriot nationals. If you might be eligible for any obligations or duties that apply to dual nationals, such as national military service, contact the Cypriot authorities or a lawyer before you travel.

National military service in the Republic of Cyprus

Dual Australian-Cypriot nationals may have to do national military service. This may apply if you're:

• male
• aged 15 to 50 years
• staying longer than 3 months

Female dual nationals may have civil defence obligations. This may apply if you're:

• female
• aged 18 to 50 years
• a permanent resident of Cyprus

If you're a male dual national aged 16 to 26 years, you need an exit permit to leave Cyprus. You can get a permit from either the:

• High Commission of the Republic of Cyprus in Australia
• Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Cyprus

Check with the Ministry of Defence before you travel.

National military service in the north

If you're in northern Cyprus, you might have to do military service if you:

• have a Turkish-Cypriot background
• are male
• are older than 18 years
• stay longer than 3 months in northern Cyprus

Check with the relevant authorities (Turkish Cypriot)  before you travel.

Length of national military service

Officials may reduce the length of your national service if you show evidence of long-term residency in Australia.

Get a copy of your movements in and out of Australia as evidence of residency. Make a 'Request for International Movement Records' to the Department of Home Affairs.

You'll need this documentation if you:

• are or could be a dual national
• haven't completed national service
• intend to stay longer than 3 months

More information:

• Dual nationals

Visa conditions

You don't need a tourist visa to visit Cyprus for stays of up to 90 days in a 6-month period.

If you plan to stay longer, you must apply for a visa. Applications can be made in-country.

If you overstay your visa, officials may charge you with breaching immigration rules.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for the latest details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

More information:

• Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Cyprus)
• Ministry of Interior (Cyprus)

Sea Travel

Arrivals by sea must meet the same requirements as air arrivals (see above).

Entry to Cyprus

The only legal entry to Cyprus is through:

• the airports of Larnaca and Paphos
• the seaports of Larnaca, Limassol, Latsi and Paphos

It's illegal to enter or exit Cyprus via any air or seaport in north Cyprus (the area not under the Republic of Cyprus's control). 

Illegal entry ports include:

• Tymbou ('Ercan') and Lefkoniko ('Gecitkale') airports
• the seaports of Kyrenia (Girne) and Famagusta (Gazi Magusa)

If you arrive in Cyprus from the north illegally, you could be barred from crossing into the south through the UN Buffer Zone's official checkpoints.

More information:

• Important Information (Government of Cyprus)

Travelling through crossing checkpoints

Travel is permitted between the south and north of Cyprus for Australians arriving through the legal ports of entry in the south. Travel between the 2 areas is only permitted at formal crossing points in the UN Buffer Zone (see Local Travel).

Limitations exist on the goods that can be transported between the south and the north. Live animals, including house pets, aren't allowed to be transported between the south and the north.

Immigration officials might refuse entry into Cyprus if they have concerns about previous or planned travel to the north. This includes accommodation in the north or planned activities, such as commercial, academic or employment activities.

More information:

• Republic of Cyprus’ Customs and Excise Department

Departure from Cyprus

During the summer months of July and August, you should anticipate long security queues at Larnaca and Paphos airports. Follow the advice from your travel provider.

Departure from Cyprus through an illegal exit port in the north won't be recognised as a legal exit, and you could be considered an overstayer of the tourist visa if you've departed from the north.

Validity

Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service.
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate.

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier 

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:  

• LGBQTIA+ travellers 

Currency in the Republic of Cyprus

The Republic of Cyprus, in the south, uses the euro as its official currency. Turkish lira isn't accepted.

Currency in the north

The principal currency in the north is the Turkish lira, although many businesses accept euros too.

Declaring Currency

Declare any amounts over 10,000 euros (or equivalent) when you're travelling between Cyprus and any non-European Union (EU) country. This covers all forms of currency and gold, not only cash.

No declaration is needed when travelling to or from another EU country.

Failure to declare or incorrect declarations may result in fines upon entering or leaving Cyprus.

Payment Options

ATMs are common in tourist areas.

In the South, all businesses must legally accept credit and debit cards. Visa and Mastercard are commonly accepted, while American Express is not widely used.

Cashback is available at some large supermarkets and retail stores.

Travel in the north

Turkish-Cypriot authorities in the north issue residence permits, identity cards and other documents. The Republic of Cyprus and other countries may not recognise these documents.

Use your Australian passport for all travel into or out of Cyprus.

Some countries may refuse entry if your passport or luggage contains evidence you entered Cyprus through any air or seaport in the non-government-controlled north.

If you arrive in Cyprus from the north illegally, you could be barred from crossing into the south through the UN Buffer Zone's official checkpoints.

Travelling to or from the north through the UN Buffer Zone crossing points

You can cross into the north if you arrive through legal ports of entry in the south.

You can take private vehicles or hire cars through checkpoints from the south to the north. However, you can't take cars that have been hired in the north through the checkpoints into the south. Cars can't cross at the Ledra Street and Ledra Palace crossings.

You must show your current car insurance when crossing north or south. Ensure your car insurance covers the areas you want to drive through. Car hire companies offer insurance but be aware that their insurance may only cover you in the north or the south. There are usually insurance companies close to the crossing points who can sell you a short-term policy.

Travelling to or from the north through the UK’s Sovereign Base Areas

There are 2 crossing points in the United Kingdom's Sovereign Base Area of Dhekelia in the east of the island.

• Pergamos (also known as Pyla, Pile, Beyarmudu or Dhekelia)
• Strovilia (also known as Ayios Nikolaos or Akyar)

These crossing points have specific entry and exit rules under international law determining who can use them.

Australians can't cross from north to south at these points, even with a valid Republic of Cyprus visa.

You should avoid these crossings in either direction. Use an alternative crossing point, such as Dherynia (also known as Famagusta or Gazimagusa).

Staying in the north

Republic of Cyprus authorities have deemed some hotel and tourist accommodations in the north illegal. These are listed in the memorandum link below. The Republic of Cyprus has warned visitors about staying in this accommodation, and may put you at risk of legal action on the part of the owners. 

More information:

• Government of Cyprus - Ownership Status of Hotels Warning
• Government of Cyprus – Memorandum (Updated April 2023)

Carrying goods between the north and south

You may need to present your goods for inspection when you cross between the north and south.

Strict controls apply to items bought in the north, including:

• alcohol
• cigarettes
• imitation or pirated brand-name products

Republic of Cyprus police or customs authorities may confiscate these items. They may also fine you.

Customs officials in the north enforce a limit on the purchase of goods in the south.

Both sides enforce quarantine rules on food.

More information:

• Cyprus Ministry of Finance (Customs & Excise Department)

Driving permit

You can only use your Australian driver's licence for 6 months from your date of arrival. 

You'll need to obtain a local driving licence to continue to drive after 6 months. To get a local licence, refer to the Road Transport Department.

The minimum age for driving is 18 years.

Road travel

Road accidents are a major risk.

Most roads are of a good standard, but some secondary and mountain roads are poorly maintained.

Driving practices can be poor. Drivers often:

• ignore international driving norms
• use mobile phones while driving
• disobey traffic signals
• fail to use indicators
• ignore speed limits

Be careful crossing roads, as traffic may not follow signals.

Be aware of quad bikes on roads. 

The UN and military restrict access to roads in the UN Buffer Zone. Parts of this zone have landmines.

If you plan to drive:

• only hire cars from reputable companies
• make sure you've got the right licence for the vehicle you plan to drive
• check your insurance covers you in the north and the south

More information:

• Driving or riding
• Travel insurance

Motorcycles

Check with your insurer if your policy covers you using a motorbike, quad bike, dune buggy or similar vehicle.

Many serious injuries and deaths from quad-bike accidents happen each year, particularly in tourist areas. Follow directions on where you can and can't ride quad bikes or similar vehicles.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use only authorised taxi and limousine services. Arrange them through your hotel, if possible, or through apps such as Bolt.

Unofficial taxis may overcharge.

Public transport

Bus and coach services operate throughout Cyprus.

Theft can occur on public transport. Take care of your belongings.

More information:

• Transport and getting around safely

Sea travel

Before taking a ferry or other boat, make sure it has the right safety gear. Many international cruise lines stopover in Cyprus.

More information:

• Going on a cruise
• Travelling by boat

Air travel

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Cyprus' air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

• Air travel

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider
• employer
• airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 112.

Medical emergencies

Call 112.

Police

Call 199.

All emergencies in northern Cyprus

Call 155.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Emergency operators may not speak English.

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Nicosia.

Australian High Commission, Nicosia

7th Floor, Block A
Alpha Business Centre
27 Pindarou Street
1060 Nicosia, Cyprus

Phone: (+357) 2229 7555
Fax: (+357) 2276 6486
Email: Consular.Nicosia@dfat.gov.au
Website: cyprus.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australian High Commission, Cyprus
Twitter: @AusHCCyprus

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact the High Commission, then call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia