Official Global Travel Advisories
- Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice
- Avoid all cruise ship travel outside Canada until further notice
Mandatory COVID-19 testing
To be allowed to board a flight to Canada, all air passengers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken within 72 hours of their scheduled time of departure to Canada. If the traveller has a connecting flight to Canada, the pre-departure test must be conducted within 72 hours of the last direct flight to Canada. This means they may need to schedule a COVID-19 test at their transit city within 72 hours of their direct flight to Canada.
All travellers 5 years of age or older, including Canadians, arriving to Canada by land are required to show a negative COVID-19 molecular test result taken in the United States within 72 hours prior to crossing the border into Canada.
Alternatively, travellers can present a positive COVID-19 molecular test taken between 14 and 90 days prior to departure.
More information on measures in place to enter Canada – Government of Canada
Cyprus Register Travel insurance Destinations
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Latest updates: Safety and security - Update on preventative measures and restrictions
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Risk level(s)
Risk level(s)
COVID-19 – Global travel advisory
Effective date: March 13, 2020
Avoid non-essential travel outside Canada until further notice.
This advisory overrides other risk levels on this page, with the exception of any risk levels for countries or regions where we advise to avoid all travel.
Cyprus - Take normal security precautions
Take normal security precautions in Cyprus.
Safety and security
Safety and security
COVID-19 - Preventative measures and restrictions
Preventative measures and restrictions are in place. A nationwide curfew is in effect from 11 p.m. to 5 a.m.
You must wear a face covering in public.
If you violate the restrictions, you could be fined for endangering public health.
- Follow the instructions of local authorities, including those related to physical distancing
- Avoid crowded areas
More information on COVID-19 in Cyprus – Press and Information Office of Cyprus
The Government of the Republic of Cyprus, the internationally recognized authority, controls the Greek Cypriot southern part of the island. An autonomous Turkish Cypriot administration controls the northern area.
Canada does not recognize the Turkish Cypriot administration. Assistance to Canadians in the northern area of Cyprus could be limited.
Crime
Petty crime such as pickpocketing and purse snatching is prevalent, particularly in urban areas.
Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.
Fraud
Some bars and cabarets have overcharged customers for drinks. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay.
Terrorism
There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorist attacks have occurred in a number of European cities and there is a potential for other violent incidents, which could target areas frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. Continue to exercise normal security precautions.
Road safety
Road conditions and road safety varies greatly throughout the country.
Modern highways link the major cities. Rural and mountain roads are often narrow, winding and poorly maintained. Running red lights, speeding and tailgating are common causes of accidents.
Sidewalks are narrow or non-existent. As a result, pedestrians often walk on roadways, which poses a major safety hazard.
Demonstrations
Demonstrations and strikes occur periodically. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.
- Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
- Follow the instructions of local authorities
- Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations
More about mass gatherings (large-scale events)
Public transportation
Public buses are limited. Metered taxis are widely available.
Air travel
We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.
Entry/exit requirements
Entry/exit requirements
COVID-19 - Entry requirements
Travellers arriving from Canada are not allowed entry to Cyprus. However, in limited circumstances, certain travellers may be allowed entry if they meet specific criteria.
It is your responsibility to verify this information with the appropriate foreign diplomatic office and to ask if you may be allowed entry, based on your individual circumstances and your itinerary.
Local authorities may impose additional requirements without notice and your travel plans could be severely disrupted. You should not depend on the Government of Canada for assistance related to changes to your travel plans.
Useful links:
- Entry to Cyprus - Government of the Republic of Cyprus
- Entry requirements to EU countries - Re-open EU
- Foreign diplomatic offices in Canada - Global Affairs Canada
Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.
We have obtained the information on this page from Cypriot authorities. It can, however, change at any time.
Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.
You must enter Cyprus at the legal ports of entry in the area under the control of the Government of the Republic of Cyprus. Entry or exit via any other air or seaport is illegal and could result in penalties.
Passport
Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.
Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.
Regular Canadian passport
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from Cyprus.
Passport for official travel
Different entry rules may apply.
Other travel documents
Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest diplomatic mission for your destination.
Useful links
Visas
Tourist visa: Not required
Business visa: Not required
Student visa: required
Working in Cyprus
If you wish to work in Cyprus, contact the High Commission for the Republic of Cyprus in Canada for information on specific requirements.
Foreign diplomatic missions and consulates in Canada
Other requirements
Immigration officials at the port of entry may ask you for proof of a return or onward ticket, as well as proof of sufficient funds to cover your stay.
Children and travel
Learn about travel with children.
Yellow fever
Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).
General entry information
A United Nations peacekeeping force patrols the “green line,” the zone between the Republic of Cyprus in the southern part of the island and the Turkish Cypriot in north. You can cross the green line in both directions at designated crossing points, including at pedestrian-only Ledra Palace and Ledra Street checkpoints in central Nicosia.
Health
Health
- Pandemic COVID-19 all countries: avoid non-essential travel outside Canada - April 22, 2021
- Global Measles Notice - July 23, 2019
Vaccines
Routine Vaccines
Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.
Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.
Vaccines to Consider
You may be at risk for these vaccine-preventable diseases while travelling in this country. Talk to your travel health professional about which ones are right for you.
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease of the liver spread through contaminated food and water or contact with an infected person. All those travelling to regions with a risk of hepatitis A infection should get vaccinated.
Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is a disease of the liver spread through blood or other bodily fluids. Travellers who may be exposed (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) should get vaccinated.
Influenza
Seasonal influenza occurs worldwide. The flu season usually runs from November to April in the northern hemisphere, between April and October in the southern hemisphere and year round in the tropics. Influenza (flu) is caused by a virus spread from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Get the flu shot.
Measles
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.
Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.
Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements
Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.
Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.
Risk
- There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.
Country Entry Requirement*
- Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.
Recommendation
- Vaccination is not recommended.
About Yellow Fever
Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada
* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.
Food/Water
Food and Water-borne Diseases
Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.
In some areas in Western Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Western Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
Typhoid
Typhoid is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.
Travellers visiting regions with a risk typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.
Insects
Insects and Illness
In some areas in Western Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, Rift Valley fever, and West Nile virus.
Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.
Malaria
Malaria
- There is a limited risk of malaria in this country.
- Malaria is a serious and occasionally fatal disease that is spread by mosquitoes. There is no vaccine against malaria.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites. This includes covering up, using insect repellent and staying in well-screened air-conditioned accommodations. You may also consider sleeping under an insecticide-treated bednet or pre-treating travel gear with insecticides.
Animals
Animals and Illness
Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Western Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.
Person-to-Person
Person-to-Person Infections
Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.
Medical services and facilities
COVID-19 - Testing
Contact local health authorities, or the nearest Government of Canada office abroad to find out where you can get a COVID-19 test.
Satisfactory to good medical care is available at government hospitals and private clinics.
Medical services in northern Cyprus can be more basic than those available in the Republic of Cyprus. In the event of a serious accident or illness, medical evacuation may be necessary.
Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.
Keep in Mind...
The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.
Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.
Laws and culture
Laws & culture
You must abide by local laws.
Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.
Dual citizenship
Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Cyprus.
If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Cyprus, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.
General information for travellers with dual citizenship
Illegal drugs
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect jail and heavy fines.
Photography
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. Regardless of whether signs are posted, refrain from photographing military installations or personnel and comply with all requests from local authorities regarding the use of photographic equipment.
Driving
You should carry an international driving permit.
More about the International Driving Permit
Traffic drives on the left.
Liability insurance is mandatory. Vehicle insurance purchased in the Republic of Cyprus is not valid in the Turkish Cypriot area. You must have a separate insurance policy when driving in the Turkish Cypriot area, including when driving rental cars.
Enforcement of traffic laws and regulations is inconsistent.
The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless the phone is fitted with a hands-free device.
Helmets are required when riding on a motorcycle.
The use of seat belts and child car seats is mandatory.
Real Estate
Seek independent legal advice if you consider the purchase, rental, advertisement or promotion of property in areas that are not under the effective control of the Government of Cyprus. There is a high probability that you will become the target of civil lawsuits, and your ownership and involvement with that property may be challenged by Cypriots displaced in 1974.
Money
The currency of the Republic of Cyprus is the euro (EUR). You may use the euro in Turkish-occupied areas, although it is not in official circulation. The new Turkish lira (YTL) is in circulation in those areas.
Credit cards are widely accepted. ATMs are available.
If you are carrying more than €10,000 or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs upon your entry or exit to the European Union. The sum can be in cash, cheque, money order, traveller’s cheque or any other convertible asset. This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.
More information about cash controls - European Commission
Natural disasters and climate
Natural disasters & climate
Cyprus is located in an active seismic zone and minor earthquakes are relatively common.
Beware of strong seas and undertows, and take note of warning signs on beaches.
Assistance
Assistance
Local services
Emergency services
Dial 112 for emergency assistance.
For police or emergency roadside assistance, dial:
- 199 in the Republic of Cyprus
- 155 in the Turkish Cypriot area
Consular assistance
Nicosia - Consulate of Canada
Athens - Embassy of Canada
For emergency consular assistance, call the Consulate of Canada in Nicosia or the Embassy of Canada in Athens, Greece, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.
The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.
The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.
If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.
Learn more about consular services.