Cyprus

🇨🇾

Phone Code

+357

Capital

Nicosia

Population

1.3 Million

Native Name

Κύπρος

Region

Europe

Southern Europe

Timezones

Eastern European Time

UTC+02:00

+1 more

Cyprus is an EU member island in the Eastern Mediterranean, known for beautiful beaches, ancient ruins, year-round sunshine, and the divided capital Nicosia (last divided capital in Europe). The Republic of Cyprus (Greek Cypriot south) is the internationally recognized government, while the northern part is administered by Turkish Cypriots. Visitors are drawn to Paphos Archaeological Park (UNESCO site), Troodos Mountains monasteries (UNESCO sites), Ayia Napa and Protaras beaches, Larnaca's Church of Saint Lazarus, Cape Greco, Akamas Peninsula hiking, and vibrant nightlife. Cyprus offers Mediterranean culture, excellent cuisine (mezze), and historical treasures.

Visa Requirements for Cyprus

Cyprus is an EU member but not yet part of the Schengen Area, maintaining its own border controls. EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can enter with just a valid ID card or passport for unlimited stays. Citizens of the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and many others can enter visa-free for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Note that this 90-day limit is calculated separately from Schengen; days spent in Cyprus don't count toward Schengen limits. Those requiring visas should apply through Cyprus embassies or consulates (pro-visa system), providing application forms, photographs, travel insurance, proof of accommodation, and financial means. Northern Cyprus (Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus) has separate entry procedures.

Common Visa Types

Visa-Free Entry (EU/EEA/Swiss)

Unlimited stay; can enter with valid national ID card or passport; freedom of movement rights apply; can work without permit.

For EU, EEA, and Swiss citizens for tourism, work, residence, or any purpose without restrictions.

Visa-Free Entry (Third Countries)

Up to 90 days within any 180-day period; passport must be valid 3 months beyond departure; proof of accommodation and funds may be requested; no fee.

For tourism or business for citizens of US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and other eligible nationalities.

Pro-Visa (Short Stay)

Up to 90 days within 180-day period; apply through Cyprus embassy; processing 10-15 days; requires travel insurance and financial proof.

For nationalities requiring visas for tourism, business, cultural, or visiting purposes up to 90 days.

Long-Stay Visa

Beyond 90 days; requires specific purpose documentation (employment contract, university enrollment); leads to residence permit; apply through embassy.

For stays exceeding 90 days including work, study, or residence in Cyprus.

Important Travel Information

Not in Schengen: Cyprus is EU but NOT Schengen. Separate border controls. 90-day limit calculated independently from Schengen days.

Divided island: Republic of Cyprus (south) is internationally recognized EU member. Northern Cyprus is recognized only by Turkey. Crossing between them possible at checkpoints.

Northern Cyprus entry: Entering Cyprus via northern ports/airports (Turkish-administered) may complicate legal status. Recommended to enter through Republic of Cyprus first.