Visa Regulations for Entering Cyprus
Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not need a visa to enter Cyprus for stays up to 90 days.
Non-EU citizens may require a visa for stays longer than 90 days. A visa must be obtained from a Cypriot diplomatic mission before arrival in Cyprus.
Important Rules to Be Aware of:
A valid passport is required for entry into Cyprus.
Visitors may be asked to show evidence of sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay.
Visitors may also be asked to show a return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation.
Visitors who intend to work or study in Cyprus must obtain the appropriate visa in advance.
Navigating the Regulations:
To ensure a smooth and successful entry into Cyprus, it is recommended that visitors research the visa requirements specific to their individual circumstances. This information can be found on the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus.
Types of Visa Available in Cyprus:
Tourist Visa: For stays up to 90 days for purposes such as tourism, visiting friends and relatives, or business meetings.
Study Visa: For students who wish to study in Cyprus for a period longer than 90 days.
Work Visa: For individuals who wish to work in Cyprus.
Family Reunion Visa: For family members of Cypriot citizens or legal residents in Cyprus who wish to join them.
Visa Exemptions in Cyprus:
Citizens of the European Union, the European Economic Area, and Switzerland do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days in Cyprus.
Relationship between Visas and Residency Status in Cyprus:
Visitors who wish to stay in Cyprus for longer than 90 days must obtain the appropriate visa before their arrival. This may lead to obtaining residency status in Cyprus, depending on the type of visa and the length of stay.
Reliable Information on Visas for Entry into Cyprus:
Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus: https://www.mfa.gov.cy/mfa/mfa2016.nsf/All/D13C7A3C1E51A7BDC22582400038F0F9?OpenDocument
Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Washington D.C.: https://www.mfa.gov.cy/mfa/embassies/washington/washington.nsf/Embassy_Visas_En
Cyprus Immigration Services: https://www.pio.gov.cy/corporate/en-gb/home.html
To enter Cyprus, foreign nationals from certain countries are required to obtain a visa prior to arrival. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least 3-4 weeks before the planned trip.
The relevant authority for visa application is the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in the applicant’s home country. In the case of the US and UK, the respective Embassies are located in Washington D.C and London.
Relevant forms and additional information can be found on the official website of the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in the respective country:
- Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in Washington D.C: https://www.cyprusembassy.net/
- Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in London: https://www.cyprusembassy.org.uk/
Where to Apply for a Visa for Cyprus
Applicants can apply for a Cyprus visa at the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in their home country. In the case of US citizens, the Embassy is located in Washington D.C. and for UK citizens, the Embassy is located in London.
Relevant Documents for Cyprus
The following documents are required to apply for a Cyprus visa:
- A completed and signed visa application form
- A valid passport with a validity of at least 6 months after the intended date of departure from Cyprus
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- Proof of sufficient financial means to support the stay in Cyprus
- Proof of accommodation in Cyprus
- Travel itinerary and return ticket
- Proof of travel insurance coverage
- Supporting documents for the purpose of the trip (e.g. business invitation, conference registration, etc.)
It is advisable to check the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in the respective country for specific requirements and further information.
Translations may be necessary if the submitted documents are not in English or Greek. These translations must be certified by a authorized translator.
Visa Application Processing Time for Cyprus
The processing time for a Cyprus visa application can vary, but it typically takes around 10-15 working days from the date of application. It is recommended to apply for a visa at least 3-4 weeks before the planned trip to ensure enough time for the processing of the visa.
Visa Application Cost for Cyprus
The cost of a Cyprus visa varies depending on the type of visa and the nationality of the applicant. As of 2021, the cost for a single-entry visa for citizens of the US is €60 and for UK citizens, the cost is £30.
In addition to the visa fee, there may be additional costs associated with obtaining a Cyprus visa, such as the cost of travel insurance coverage, translation fees, and courier services to return the passport and visa. These costs will vary depending on the individual circumstances of the applicant.