Planning to visit <strong><strong>Cyprus</strong></strong>—the sun-drenched Mediterranean island with ancient ruins, beautiful beaches, and warm hospitality? Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Cyprus is an EU member state but NOT part of the Schengen Area, meaning separate visa rules apply. This guide covers everything you need to know about Cyprus visit visa requirements in 2026, including who needs a visa, required documents, application process, and what to expect at the border.
đź’ˇKey Takeaways
- •Cyprus is NOT part of Schengen—separate visa required
- •US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia citizens: visa-free up to 90 days
- •Visa fee: €20 (single-entry), €60 (multiple-entry)—lower than Schengen
- •Processing: 7-15 working days
- •Required: passport, photos, itinerary, accommodation, insurance, finances
- •Entry through North Cyprus ports not recognized by Republic
Do You Need a Cyprus Visit Visa?
No Visa Required
Citizens of these countries can visit Cyprus visa-free:
- EU/EEA citizens: Unlimited stay, work rights
- UK citizens: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand: Up to 90 days
- Other visa-exempt: Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Israel, UAE, Brazil, Argentina, Mexico, and many more
Check the Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs website for the complete list.
Visa Required
Citizens of these countries generally need a visa:
- India, China, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
- Russia, Belarus, most former Soviet states
- Most African countries
- Philippines, Indonesia, Vietnam
- Most Middle Eastern countries (except UAE, Israel)
Important: Cyprus is NOT Schengen
Key implications:
- Schengen visa does NOT allow entry to Cyprus
- Cyprus visa does NOT allow Schengen travel
- Time in Cyprus does NOT count toward Schengen 90/180 limit
- Separate visa applications required
Types of Cyprus Visitor Visa
Short-Stay Visa (Type C)
For tourist, business, or family visits:
- Duration: Up to 90 days in any 180-day period
- Entries: Single, double, or multiple entry
- Purpose: Tourism, business, family visit, medical, transit
- Processing: 7-15 working days
Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
For stays over 90 days (work, study, family)—different requirements.
Requirements for Cyprus Tourist Visa
Basic Eligibility
- Valid passport (6+ months beyond intended stay, 2 blank pages)
- Purpose fits visitor visa category
- Sufficient funds for stay
- Accommodation arranged
- Intent to leave before visa expires
- No entry bans
Required Documents
Identity Documents
- Valid passport
- Previous passports with travel history (if applicable)
- Two recent passport photos (35x45mm, white background)
- National ID card copy
Application Form
- Completed Cyprus visa application form
- Signed and dated
- Available from embassy or online
Travel Documentation
- Flight itinerary (round-trip or onward travel)
- Accommodation proof (hotel bookings, invitation letter, Airbnb)
- Travel itinerary showing planned activities
Financial Proof
- Bank statements (3 months minimum)
- Proof of regular income (employment letter, business ownership)
- Sponsorship letter and sponsor's financial documents (if applicable)
- Minimum suggested: €50-100 per day of stay
Travel Insurance
- Coverage valid in Cyprus
- Minimum €30,000 medical coverage
- Must cover entire trip duration
- Emergency repatriation coverage
Employment/Status Proof
- Employment letter (confirming position, salary, approved leave)
- Business registration (if self-employed)
- Student enrollment letter (if student)
- Pension statement (if retired)
Purpose-Specific Documents
- Business: Invitation from Cyprus company, conference registration
- Family visit: Invitation letter from host, host's ID/residence permit
- Medical: Letter from Cyprus hospital, doctor's referral
Application Process
Step 1: Gather Documents
Collect all required documents. Allow 2-3 weeks to gather everything, especially employment letters and recent bank statements.
Step 2: Complete Application Form
Download from Cyprus embassy website or visa center. Fill completely—incomplete forms are rejected.
Step 3: Book Appointment
Schedule appointment at:
- Cyprus embassy or consulate in your country
- Authorized visa center (VFS Global in some countries)
Apply at embassy of the country of your residence.
Step 4: Attend Appointment
- Submit documents in person
- Pay visa fee
- Provide biometrics (if required)
- Answer any questions
Step 5: Wait for Processing
- Standard: 7-15 working days
- May be longer during peak seasons
- Additional documents may be requested
Step 6: Collect Passport
Passport returned with visa stamp (or rejection letter).
Visa Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Short-stay visa (adult) | €20 |
| Multiple-entry visa | €60 |
| Service fee (if applicable) | Varies |
Note: Cyprus visa fees are lower than Schengen fees. Some nationalities may have different fees due to bilateral agreements.
Tips for Successful Application
Document Quality
- All documents clear and legible
- Translate documents not in Greek or English
- Organize in order requested
- Make copies of everything
Financial Proof
- Show sufficient, stable balance
- Regular income deposits important
- Avoid large unexplained deposits before application
- If sponsored, include sponsor's documents
Travel Ties
Demonstrate intent to return home:
- Employment with approved leave
- Property ownership
- Family obligations
- Business ownership
- University enrollment
Common Mistakes
- Incomplete application form
- Insufficient financial documents
- No return flight booking
- Missing travel insurance
- Wrong photo specifications
- Applying too late
At the Border
What to Expect
Even with valid visa, immigration may ask:
- Purpose of visit
- Length of stay
- Accommodation details
- Financial means
- Return ticket
Documents to Have Ready
- Passport with visa
- Return/onward ticket
- Hotel booking confirmation
- Proof of funds (card, cash, bank statement on phone)
- Travel insurance document
North Cyprus Warning
- Cyprus is divided—Republic of Cyprus (south) and Turkish-controlled north
- Entry through northern ports/airports not recognized by Republic of Cyprus
- If entering through north only, you cannot access the south
- Can cross between south and north with valid documents
For Visa-Exempt Travelers
Entry Requirements
Even without visa, you may need to show:
- Valid passport
- Return/onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Proof of sufficient funds
Stay Duration
- Maximum 90 days in any 180-day period (most nationalities)
- EU citizens: unlimited stay
- Cannot work on tourist status
Official Resources
For the most current and authoritative information, consult these official sources:
- Cyprus Immigration - Official visa and immigration information
- Cyprus Tourism - Official tourism board with travel resources
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