Travel Report for Cyprus

Country Profile for
Cyprus

TRAVEL REPORTS:

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TRAVEL REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2006 16:01 EST
Still Valid: December 8, 2006 23:14 EST

Cyprus

1.	INTRODUCTION
2.	ATTENTION
3.	SAFETY AND SECURITY
4.	LOCAL TRAVEL
5.	NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE
6.	LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS
7.	ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD
8.	ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS
9.	MONEY

10.	GENERAL INFORMATION
11.	TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM
12.	ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION
13.	RETURNING TO CANADA
14.	INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS
15.	TRAVEL TIPS
16.	HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE
17.	FOR MORE INFORMATION
18.	ANNEX

1. INTRODUCTION

Section 8 of this Travel Report has been updated.

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2. ATTENTION

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada offers a registration service for Canadians travelling or residing abroad. Canadians should register with the responsible Canadian government office in this country if they are going to be there for longer than three months. Registration can be done on-line or by calling the responsible Canadian government office abroad to request a registration form. Canadians visiting for less than three months are strongly advised to: (a) leave a detailed travel itinerary and contact information with family or friends in Canada; (b) provide family with the emergency number for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada (1 800 267-6788 or 613-944-6788); and (c) keep the phone number of the responsible Canadian government office on hand (see Section 7 below).

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

Most Canadian visitors to Cyprus do not experience problems. The crime rate is low. However, petty crime, including pickpocketing and purse snatching, is prevalent, particularly in urban areas. Exercise normal safety precautions and ensure personal belongings, passports, and other travel documents are secure. While civil disorder is uncommon, political protests sometimes occur and may result in violence. Avoid demonstrations and other large gatherings.

A United Nations peacekeeping force patrols the "green line" between the Republic of Cyprus, in the southern part of the island, and the Turkish Cypriot northern area. The green line can be crossed at the following points: (1) Pergamos in Larnaca; (2) Strovilia in the Paralimni area; (3) Ayios Dhometios in Nicosia; (4) Astromeritis in Nicosia; and (5) Ledra Palace Gate in Nicosia (this point can only be crossed by foot).

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4. LOCAL TRAVEL

Traffic drives on the left. Drive defensively, as Cyprus has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in Europe. While modern highways link the major cities, rural and mountain roads are often narrow, winding, and poorly maintained. Enforcement of traffic laws and regulations is inconsistent. Running of traffic lights, speeding, and tailgating are common causes of accidents.

Liability insurance is mandatory. Vehicle insurance purchased in the Republic of Cyprus is not valid in the Turkish-Cypriot area; separate insurance must therefore be purchased if driving into that area.

Emergency roadside assistance is available by calling 199 in the Republic of Cyprus and 155 in the Turkish-Cypriot area. Public buses are limited. Rail service is non-existent. Taxis are widely available.

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended.

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5. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

Cyprus is located in an active seismic zone. Beware of strong seas and undertows and take note of warning signs on beaches. Canadians should know the address and telephone number of the Consulate of Canada in Nicosia or the Embassy of Canada in Damascus, Syria (see Section 7 below), in the event of an emergency.

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6. LOCAL LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 7 below. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

The Department publishes A Guide for Canadians Imprisoned Abroad, specifically targeted at incarcerated Canadians. Its prime objective is to inform Canadian detainees, their families, and friends about available assistance and advice.

Canadian citizens with dual nationality may be subject to compulsory military service and other obligations imposed by both the Government of Cyprus in the south and Turkish-Cypriot authorities in the north. Dual nationality may limit the ability of Canadian officials to provide consular services. Those who may be affected should also inquire with a consulate of the Republic of Cyprus in Canada (see Section 8 below). Canadians should travel using their Canadian passport and present themselves as Canadian citizens to foreign authorities at all times.

For more information, see our publication entitled Dual Citizenship: What Travellers Should Know.

There is a strictly enforced zero-tolerance policy toward the possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Homosexual activity is legal but is not widely accepted in Cypriot society.

There are restrictions on photographing military installations in both the North and South. English-language signs are generally posted in sensitive areas advising of the restrictions. However, visitors should refrain from photographing military installations or personnel, regardless of whether warning signs are posted, and should comply with all requests from local authorities regarding the use of photographic equipment.

Explicit authorization is required for the purchase and/or export of Byzantine antiquities and other cultural artefacts.

Canadians considering the purchase of property in Cyprus should seek independent legal advice, as they may become the target of civil law suits and their ownership may be challenged by Cypriots displaced in 1974.

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7. ASSISTANCE FOR CANADIANS ABROAD

Canadians in the area under the control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following address:

Cyprus - NICOSIA, Consulate of Canada
Address: 1 Lambousa Street, 1095 Nicosia, Cyprus
Postal Address: P.O. Box 22125 - 1517, Nicosia, Cyprus
Tel.: 357 (2) 2775-508
Fax: 357 (2) 2779-905
E-mail: info@consulcanada.com.cy

The Embassy of Canada in Damascus, Syria, has consular responsibility for Cyprus. The address is as follows:

Syria - DAMASCUS, Embassy of Canada
Address: Lot 12, Mezzeh Autostrade, Damascus, Syria
Postal Address: P.O. Box 3394, Damascus, Syria
Tel.: 963 (11) 611-6692 or 611-6851
Fax: 963 (11) 611-4000
E-mail: dmcus@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.damascus.gc.ca

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Consulate of Canada in Nicosia or the Embassy of Canada in Damascus, Syria, and follow the instructions. You may also call the Department in Ottawa toll-free at 800-9-6082 or use the services offered by Canada Direct.

Canada Direct, offered by Canada's major telecommunications companies, provides travellers with toll-free and hassle-free access to the Canadian telephone network. The Canada Direct access number from Cyprus is 800-9-0012, where a Canadian operator is always available. For more information, call 1-800-561-8868 or visit the Canada Direct Web site.

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8. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Cypriot authorities and was valid on December 1^st, 2006. However, entry and exit requirements are subject to change.

It is the sole prerogative of each country to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the country or countries to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Office of Protocol provides contact details for the High Commission for the Republic of Cyprus and its consulates, and the, where you can obtain further information on entry and exit requirements.

A valid Canadian passport is required for Canadians intending to visit Cyprus. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of your expected return to Canada. A return ticket is required.

Tourist Visa: Not required
Business Visa: Not required
Student Visa: Required

Foreign currency over US$1,000 should be declared upon entry.

On May 1^st, 2004, the Republic of Cyprus changed its entry requirements to allow visitors to cross the "green line" in either direction between the southern part of the island and the northern area, subject only to a passport identity check and possible evidence that they do not constitute a threat to public order and security. While visitors are usually able to cross between the north and south without interference, they may occasionally encounter difficulties at both Turkish-Cypriot and Republic of Cyprus checkpoints.

For more information on travel to Northern Cyprus, contact Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada’s Central Europe and Eastern Mediterranean Division at (613) 996-0105.

A person interested in working in Cyprus must have his potential employer contact the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance at the following address: 7 Byron Avenue, 1463 Nicosia, Cyprus (tel.: +357 2240-1600, fax: +357 2267-0993, e-mail: administration@mlsi.gov.cy). They must also contact the Civil Registry and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior at the following address: Demosthenis Severis Avenue, 1457 Nicosia, Cyprus (tel.: +357 2280-4400/01/02, fax: +357 2267-6944).

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify visa requirements for this and other countries, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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9. MONEY

The currency in the Republic of Cyprus is the Cypriot pound (CYP). The currency in the North is the New Turkish Lira (YTL), which was introduced in January 2005 to replace the old Turkish Lira (TRL). Credit cards are widely accepted. Traveller's cheques can be exchanged at most banks. Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted. ATMs are available.

Check with your bank for information on ATM services in other countries. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ATMs around the world. Your bank can advise if you need a new personal identification number (PIN) for overseas access to your account. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ATMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. GENERAL INFORMATION

The Republic of Cyprus (capital: Nicosia) is an island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey. Tourist facilities are highly developed in the South but less so in the North. Greek and Turkish are the official languages, but English is widely spoken.

Cyprus is an independent country that continues to be divided into two de facto autonomous areas and, contrary to United Nations resolutions, into two separate zones. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus, the internationally recognized authority, exercises control only in the Greek Cypriot southern part of the island. The northern area operates under an autonomous Turkish Cypriot administration.

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11. TRAVEL MEDICINE PROGRAM

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Medicine Program Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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12. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

Satisfactory medical care is available at government hospitals and private clinics.

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13. RETURNING TO CANADA

Please consult the Current Issue on returning to Canada.

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14. INTERNATIONAL ADOPTIONS

Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child from another country, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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15. TRAVEL TIPS

Please consult our Traveller's Checklist.

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16. HEALTH AND TRAVEL INSURANCE

Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

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17. FOR MORE INFORMATION

The member states of the European Union (not including the United Kingdom and Ireland), plus Norway and Iceland, make up the Schengen area, which aims to abolish border controls between those countries and create a single external frontier. However, controls are still in place at the borders of the newer Schengen countries.

Canadians do not need visas for short-term visits to Schengen countries, but some member states require you to register with local authorities within three working days of your arrival. It is important to get your passport stamped when entering the Schengen area. The absence of an entry stamp from the initial Schengen port of entry could create difficulties during subsequent encounters with local police or other authorities.

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18. ANNEX

N/A

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