covid travel uk to cyprus

Wed 1 May 2024

2024 newspaper of the year

@ Contact us

Your newsletters

Can I travel to Cyprus? Latest UK advice and Covid cases update ahead of today’s quarantine review

Cyprus has long been a popular holiday destination for brits, but its borders have been closed to people from the uk for months.

Cyprus has been one of the most successful countries in Europe at handling the coronavirus pandemic .

This is partly because it has been very careful in allowing tourists in from abroad.

However, the number of Covid-19 cases has been rising in recent weeks, prompting fears that the island might lose its travel corridor with the UK.

Here is everything you need to know about whether you can book a holiday to Cyprus this summer.

Can I go on holiday to Cyprus?

Cyprus began allowing tourists from the UK on Saturday 1 August.

You will need to present a negative coronavirus test result, taken in the 72 hours before departure, upon arrival to be allowed in.

On 31 July 2020, the Republic of Cyprus government announced that test results can be in the form of an email or SMS, but the result itself and/or appointment letter must include the date and time when the test was taken.

Children under 12 years old do not require to be tested in order to travel to Cyprus.

What is the latest travel advice for Cyprus?

Cyprus is exempt from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advice against all but essential international travel.

This means people from the UK can travel to Cyprus for holidays and book travel insurance.

Could Cyprus go back on the UK’s quarantine list?

Cyprus is on the UK’s air bridge list, meaning you do not have to quarantine for 14 days upon arriving back home.

Cyprus recorded 1687 confirmed cases of Covid-19 in the 14 days leading up to 29 October, according to the European Centre for Prevention Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). A very small number compared to the UK’s 287,631 cases over the same period

However, figures from the PC agency show Cyprus has recorded an average of 111.è cases per 100,000 people over a seven day period as of 29 October – this is is above the benchmark of 20 cases per 100,000 that the UK Government has been using to inform quarantine rules.

This means the islands is at risk of losing its travel corridor with the UK.

However, the Government has preciously warned it will reinforce quarantine for countries which see a sharp spike in cases.

“We have to keep the situation under review and I think that is what the public would expect us to do,” junior health minister Helen Whately told Sky News .

“If we see rates going up in a country where at the moment there is no need to quarantine, we would have to take action because we cannot take the risk of coronavirus being spread again across the UK.”

Review of the quarantine list now take place every Thursday , with changes being announced by Transport Secretary Grant Shapps on Twitter.

Liechtenstein was the latest countries to be added to the quarantine list, while the Canary Islands, the Maldives, Denmark and Mykonos were removed , meaning that holidaymakers travelling to these destinations will no longer have to self-isolate for two weeks on their return.

Most Read By Subscribers

Cyprus Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Kingdom to Cyprus

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

Ready to travel?

Find flights to cyprus, find stays in cyprus, explore more countries on travel restrictions map, destinations you can travel to now, netherlands, new zealand, philippines, switzerland, united arab emirates, united states, know when to go.

Sign up for email alerts as countries begin to open - choose the destinations you're interested in so you're in the know.

Can I travel to Cyprus from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Cyprus.

Can I travel to Cyprus if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Cyprus without restrictions.

Can I travel to Cyprus without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Kingdom can enter Cyprus without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Cyprus?

Visitors from the United Kingdom are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Cyprus.

Can I travel to Cyprus without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Kingdom are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Cyprus?

Mask usage in Cyprus is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Cyprus?

Restaurants in Cyprus are open. Bars in Cyprus are .

Accessibility Links

Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? Latest travel advice

Here’s the latest foreign office advice on visiting cyprus following military action between israel and iran.

C yprus is one of Europe’s popular holiday destinations, but is actually closer to the Middle East than to Europe – and holidaymakers are wondering whether their plans to visit will be disrupted by increased tensions in the region.

On April 19, Israel reportedly launched a retaliatory attack on Iran , in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel on April 13. This hasn’t changed the UK Foreign Office’s advice for travelling to Cyprus — although it does warn that terrorism attacks “cannot be ruled out”.

Despite that, thanks to its enviably sunny location in the Mediterranean, Cyprus is popular with British holidaymakers year-round. In spring, the island comes into full bloom, while in summer there are blue-flag beaches where you can soak up the sun. By autumn, the Troodos Mountains are bathed in a golden hue, and the mild winters make it an attractive year-round choice.

Here’s everything you need to know about the latest travel advice to Cyprus.

What’s the latest government advice about travelling to Cyprus?

Cyprus is generally considered to be a safe holiday destination and the UK Foreign Office hasn’t updated its advice on travelling to the island since the fighting between Israel and Hamas began, or since Iran’s military action against Israel on April 13. It does, however, warn that protests can happen with little warning in light of the conflict.

Advertisement

Separately, it warns that the British government does not recognise “the self-declared Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”. Furthermore, consular support will be very limited in this area, which means you may be “more vulnerable and at greater risk”.

Has Cyprus been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Cyprus is not directly affected by the fighting between Israel and Hamas, or the conflict between Iran and Israel, although it is home to a significant Israeli population that has swelled since the conflict began in early October 2023. Security measures around the island have heightened since the fighting began, according to local press.

Tensions rose following the US and UK strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen on January 11, which were in response to Houthi attacks on commercial ships in the Red Sea. This sparked protests outside the RAF base in Akrotiri, which was used as one of the launch pads for the strikes. Cyprus was not involved in the operation, and Britain is not obligated to seek permission from Cyprus for any military operations launched from the base.

Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now?

The UK’s Foreign Office hasn’t changed its advice for Cyprus in the wake of the Israel-Hamas war, or the recent attack on Israel by Iran. For now, it’s still considered a safe destination. You should, however, follow the local news and stay away from any protests while there.

• Best all-inclusive hotels in Cyprus • Best beaches in Cyprus

What are Cyprus’s entry requirements?

Cyprus is a full member of the EU, which means that most of the rules and restrictions for entering any EU nation apply, including passport validity requirements .

For British citizens, that means ensuring that your passport is less than ten years old and has at least three months of validity left on the day you intend to leave the country.

You can enter Cyprus without a visa for up to 90 days for tourism, visiting friends or family, attending business meetings or short-term study. Unlike other EU countries such as France or Spain, which are part of the Schengen zone , your stay in Cyprus does not count towards the 90 day visa-free limit imposed on Brits after Brexit.

Is Cyprus safe for female travellers?

Yes, Cyprus is generally considered safe for female travellers, including those travelling on their own. Crime rates are low but personal attacks, including sexual assault, do happen.

The UK Foreign Office says that drug-assisted rape is a risk in Cyprus, and includes the use of drugs such as GHB and liquid ecstasy. It advises buying your own drinks and keeping an eye on them. If you’re on a night out with friends, avoid splitting up with the rest of the group.

Is Cyprus safe for LGBT travellers?

Cyprus is generally considered safe for LGBT travellers. Same-sex relationships are legal in the country and civil partnerships are recognised. However, the Foreign Office warns that it may not be as widely accepted as in the UK, especially in the north of the island.

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now? Latest advice • Is it safe to travel to Dubai right now? Latest advice

Sign up for the Times Travel Newsletter here

Related articles

INFORMATION FOR ALL STAKEHOLDERS CONCERNING FLIGHTS FROM/TO THE REPUBLIC OF CYPRUS

• Cyprus Flight Pass platform
• Countries categorized according to their epidemiological situation
• Travel advice / recommendations
• Other Documents
• As of 18 April 2022, Cyprus abolishes FlightPass, country categorization and most travel-related protocols , 14-04-2022
• New Action Plan for the smooth operation of flights and the operation of airports, as of 18 April 2022 , 07-04-2022
• Passenger Locator Form (for use in case of technical issues on CyprusFlightPass platform) , 12-10-2021
• Passenger Locator Form (for use in case of technical issues on CyprusFlightPass platform) - French , 12-10-2021
• Passenger Locator Form (for use in case of technical issues on CyprusFlightPass platform) - German , 12-10-2021
• Passenger Locator Form (for use in case of technical issues on CyprusFlightPass platform) - Russian , 12-10-2021
• Change of Contact Information for the Call Centre of the electronic platform "CyprusFlightPass" , 26-01-2021
• Mandatory completion of the Travel Card (CyprusFlightPass) for all passengers intending to travel to Cyprus, 13-7-2020 , 13-07-2020
• https://cyprusflightpass.gov.cy, 13-07-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 11/04/2022 , 11-04-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 04/04/2022 , 04-04-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 28/03/2022 , 28-03-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 21/03/2022 , 21-03-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 14/03/2022 , 14-03-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 07/03/2022 , 09-03-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 28/02/2022 , 28-02-2022
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 31/12/2021 , 31-12-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 27/12/2021 , 27-12-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 20/12/2021 , 20-12-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 13/12/2021 , 13-12-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 06/12/2021 , 06-12-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 29/11/2021 , 29-11-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 22/11/2021 , 22-11-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 15/11/2021 , 15-11-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 08/11/2021 , 08-11-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 01/11/2021 , 01-11-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 25/10/2021 , 25-10-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 18/10/2021 , 18-10-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 11/10/2021 , 11-10-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 4/10/2021 , 04-10-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 27/09/2021 , 27-09-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 20/09/2021 , 20-09-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 13/09/2021 , 13-09-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 06/09/2021 , 06-09-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 30/8/2021 , 30-08-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 23/8/2021 , 23-08-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 16/8/2021 , 16-08-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 9/8/2021 , 09-08-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 2/8/2021 , 02-08-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 26/07/2021 , 26-07-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 19/07/2021 , 19-07-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 12/7/2021 , 12-07-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 5/7/2021 , 05-07-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 28/06/2021 , 28-06-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 21/06/2021 , 21-06-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 14/06/2021 , 14-06-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 07/06/2021 , 07-06-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 31/05/2021 , 31-05-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, Dated 24/05/2021 , 24-05-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 18/05/2021 , 18-05-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 10/05/2021 , 10-05-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 03/05/2021 , 03-05-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 26/4/2021 , 26-04-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 19/4/2021 , 19-04-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 5/4/2021 , 05-04-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 29/3/2021 , 29-03-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 22/3/2021 , 22-03-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 15/3/2021 , 15-03-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 27/2/2021 , 27-02-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 17/2/2021 , 17-02-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19, dated 16/1/2021 , 16-01-2021
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 06-11-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 06-10-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 21-09-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 15-09-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 01-09-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 24-08-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 17-08-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 11-08-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 04-08-2020
• Greece is being moved to category B as of 6 August 2020 , 02-08-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 28-07-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 20-07-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 14-07-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 03-07-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 29-06-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 19-06-2020
• Epidemiological risk assessment of countries concerning COVID-19 , 10-06-2020
• Epidemic risk assessment of countries regarding COVID-19 , 24-05-2020
• Action Plan for the smooth operation of flights and the operation of airports and ports, to be abolished , 27-05-2022
• New Action Plan for smooth operation of flights and operation of airports enters into force as of 18 April , 18-04-2022
• As of 21 February 2022, the new Action Plan for the smooth operation of flights and the operation of airports enters into force , 18-02-2022
• As of 21 February 2022, the new Action Plan for the smooth operation of flights and the operation of airports enters into force , 15-02-2022
• The Council of Ministers approved the new Action Plan for the smooth operation of flights and the operation of airports , 19-01-2022
• Announcement by the Ministry of Health for passengers entering the Republic of Cyprus from the United Kingdom as of 18 December , 18-12-2021
• Entry to the Republic restricted due to new SARS-COV-2 virus strain , 26-11-2021
• Travel Advice of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the Coronavirus Covid-19 for the United Kingdom , 22-12-2020
• All other countries except those in category Α and Β (From 09/10/2020) , 29-10-2020
• Group of countries Α and Β (From 09/10/2020) , 29-10-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 24/09/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 24-09-2020
• All other countries except those in categories A and B (From 24/09/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 24-09-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 18/09/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 18-09-2020
• All other countries except those in categories A and B (From 18/09/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 18-09-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 5/09/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 05-09-2020
• All other countries except those in categories A and B (From 5/09/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 05-09-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 28/08/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 28-08-2020
• All other countries except those in categories A and B (From 28/08/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 28-08-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 20/08/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 20-08-2020
• All other countries except those in categories A and B (From 20/08/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 20-08-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 01/08/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 31-07-2020
• All other countries except those in categories A and B (From 01/08/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 31-07-2020
• All other countries except those is category A and B (From 06/7/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 07-07-2020
• Group of countries A and B (From 06/7/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 07-07-2020
• Group of countries A and B (as of 12/6/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 07-07-2020
• All other countries except those is category A and B (From12/6/2020 00:00 Cyprus time GMT+3) , 07-07-2020
• COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus , 15-01-2023
• COVID-19 Destination Protocol, Cyprus (as of 31st August 2022) , 31-08-2022
• Revised Health Protocol of the Airports of the Republic of Cyprus , 21-02-2022
• EUDCC – EU Digital Certificate format required for all passengers as of 13 August , 12-08-2021
• Digital COVID Certificate for travelling to Cyprus accepted as of 1st July 2021 , 24-06-2021
• Measures implemented at the points of entry of the Republic of Cyprus in order to contain the entry of SARS-CoV-2 mutations , 15-06-2021
• Cyprus travel protocol for vaccinated travellers , 25-05-2021
• Sinopharm vaccine (BBIBP COVID-19) in the category of vaccines accepted by the Republic of Cyprus , 20-05-2021
• Health Protocol of the Airports of the Republic of Cyprus , 17-05-2021
• Conditions applied to vaccinated passengers , 08-05-2021
• Cyprus travel protocol for vaccinated travelers , 26-04-2021
• Cyprus travel protocol for vaccinated travelers from the UK , 26-04-2021
• Ministers’ letter to tourist partners regarding COVID-19 in Cyprus , 21-04-2021
• Passengers holding a vaccination certificate from the Republic of Cyprus will not have to self-isolate or undergo testing upon arrival in Cyprus , 31-03-2021
• The Council of Ministers has approved the resumption of flights and re-opening of airports with additional security measures , 18-02-2021
• Self-isolation for 72 hours and laboratory testing 72 hours after arrival for all passengers arriving in the Republic of Cyprus , 03-02-2021

Cyprus travel restrictions: rules for UK travellers explained

By Abigail Malbon and Becky Lucas

Here’s what you need to know about Cyprus's rules and restrictions before you board a flight.

Are UK travellers allowed to visit Cyprus right now? 

Yes, as of Friday 18 March 2022, there are no Covid travel rules in the UK, which means that anyone returning to the country from Cyprus does not need to test, quarantine or fill in a passenger locator form , regardless of their vaccination status. Since the end of March, the UK government is no longer managing any quarantine hotels, either.  

What are the travel restrictions for Cyprus?

On Wednesday 1 June 2022 Cyprus removed all Covid-related travel restrictions. This follows two years of coronavirus entry requirements. 

Before this date, passengers had to show proof of vaccination or proof of a recent recovery from the virus. Now, though, travellers do not need to show proof of vaccination, a negative test or even a passenger locator form to be allowed entry into the country.

Social distancing is still in force, however, while masks must be worn on buses and in taxis. To find out all the latest details, go to gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cyprus . 

Like this? Now read:

What happened to the green list and which countries can I travel to?

Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

UK Edition Change

• UK Politics
• News Videos
• Paris 2024 Olympics
• Rugby Union
• Sport Videos
• John Rentoul
• Mary Dejevsky
• Andrew Grice
• Sean O’Grady
• Photography
• Theatre & Dance
• Culture Videos
• Food & Drink
• Health & Families
• Royal Family
• Electric Vehicles
• Car Insurance deals
• Lifestyle Videos
• UK Hotel Reviews
• News & Advice
• Simon Calder
• Australia & New Zealand
• South America
• C. America & Caribbean
• Middle East
• Politics Explained
• News Analysis
• Today’s Edition
• Home & Garden
• Broadband deals
• Fashion & Beauty
• Travel & Outdoors
• Sports & Fitness
• Sustainable Living
• Climate Videos
• Solar Panels
• Behind The Headlines
• On The Ground
• Decomplicated
• You Ask The Questions
• Binge Watch
• Travel Smart
• Watch on your TV
• Crosswords & Puzzles
• Most Commented
• Newsletters
• Ask Me Anything
• Virtual Events
• Betting Sites
• Online Casinos
• Wine Offers

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged in Please refresh your browser to be logged in

Cyprus travel rules: What are the latest restrictions for holidaymakers?

With different rules for cyprus and north cyprus and some strict testing requirements, recent trips to this balmy island have felt complex. now it’s a vastly different picture, article bookmarked.

Find your bookmarks in your Independent Premium section, under my profile

Sign up to Simon Calder’s free travel email for expert advice and money-saving discounts

Get simon calder’s travel email, thanks for signing up to the simon calder’s travel email.

The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has long been seen as an easy, breezy escape for UK travellers, with its short flight time, hot temperatures into spring and autumn, and array of lovely beaches.

However, it kept strict testing and proof of vaccination rules in place for much of the pandemic.

So what are the rules now, and is it still easy to book and jet off on a holiday to Cyprus?

Here is everything you need to know.

Do I need to show proof of vaccination to enter Cyprus?

No. Cyprus scrapped its requirement for travellers to provide proof of vaccination on 1 June 2022.

A spokesperson for Visit Cyprus said at the time: “[From 1 June] there are no restrictions for entry into the country. There are no restrictions on movement and travellers can enjoy all kinds of services and facilities across the destination without the need to present any health certificates.

“Enhanced health, safety and hygiene protocols have been devised for all hospitality establishments, cultural sites and entertainment venues, and extensive training of staff has taken place prior to the destination opening for visitors.”

Do I need to take a pre-travel test to visit Cyprus?

No. The requirement for unvaccinated travellers to take a test was dropped on the same date as the vaccination requirement.

Entry requirements for Cyprus are now the same for all travellers, regardless of vaccination status.

Do I have to fill in a passenger locator form for Cyprus?

No. Cyprus ended its Flight Pass health form on 18 April 2022.

What are the rules on the ground in Cyprus - do I still need to wear a mask?

In the first week of July, Cyprus reintroduced the wearing of face masks indoors , just a month after it dropped the rule.

On 6 July, health minister Michalis Hadjipantela announced the new ruling after a cabinet meeting.

At present, visitors aged 12 and over have to wear a face mask in indoor public spaces - the Cypriot tourist board specifies “taxis, buses, diving/safari jeeps, lifts, theatres, malls” - and could face a €300 fine if they don’t.

“Areas where people are seated whilst consuming food and beverage (restaurants, coffee-shops, bars, snackbars, lobby bars) are excluded from this provision,” the tourist board clarifies.

Social distancing is also in place in some venues.

What if I test positive for Covid-19 in Cyprus?

If you test positive for Covid, you must self-isolate in your accommodation for seven days - or five days if you are testing negative by the fifth day after first testing positive.

How long does my passport need to be valid for when visiting Cyprus?

The rule changes that could trip you up on a visit to Cyprus in 2022 are more likely to be Brexit-related than Covid-related. Since the UK left the European Union, there are new rules regarding length and frequency of visits to EU countries, as well as rules around passport stamps and validity.

To visit an EU country post-Brexit, your passport must be:

• issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the “date of issue”)
• valid for at least three months after the day you plan to leave (check the “expiry date”)

There is also now a time limit on how long and how often you can visit Cyprus, visa free. The Foreign Office advises: “You can travel to Cyprus for up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. This applies if you travel as a tourist, to visit for family or friends, to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events, or for short-term studies or training.”

However - as Cyprus is not currently part of the EU’s Schengen Area - visits to other EU or Schengen countries do not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit in Cyprus.

You must have your passport stamped on arrival and on exit from the country. Make sure this takes place at passport control to avoid any confusion over how long you have been there.

You may also need to show a return or onward ticket to indicate when you are leaving Cyprus, and could be asked to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself for the duration of your stay.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article

Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.

New to The Independent?

Or if you would prefer:

Want an ad-free experience?

Hi {{indy.fullName}}

• My Independent Premium
• Account details
• Help centre

Politics latest: Headache for Sunak as Tory MPs threaten rebellion over leasehold reform

Tory MPs are threatening to rebel over the government's new housing proposals. Meanwhile, the Scottish government is facing a vote of no confidence this afternoon - and it's PMQs at 12pm.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 10:15, UK

Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player

• Tory MPs threaten to rebel against government over leasehold reform
• Failed asylum seeker volunteering to go to Rwanda shows claims it is unsafe are 'untrue', Badenoch says
• PMQs at noon - watch and follow live here
• Scottish government to face Holyrood vote of no confidence today
• Contest for new first minister explained  | Why Yousaf resigned
• London mayor 'failing' to tackle knife crime, Badenoch says - but stats suggest area with Tory mayor has bigger problem
• Local elections: Everything you need to know about this week's votes
• Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill

People voting in local elections in England on 2 May will need to provide photo ID.

It is the second year the requirement has been in place - but in 2023,  14,000 people couldn't cast their ballot because they didn't take ID to the polling booth.

There are 22 different types of ID you can use - and if you don't have any of them, you can register for a Voter Authority Certificate.

Here's everything you need to know to avoid being caught out:

Around 600 people are blocking the entrances to the Department for Business and Trade. 

It is part of a protest organised by the Workers for Free Palestine campaign group. 

They say they are blockading sites involved in arms supplies to Israel. 

In a statement, the group said they were responding to a call "from Palestinian trade unions for workers around the world to mobilise on May Day in solidarity with Palestinian workers".

Staff in the trade department were sent a text this morning warning all entrances are closed "until further notice", one worker has told Sky News.

MSP Michelle Thomson tells Sky News she wants to see more of a contest in the SNP leadership race, but says she does have a preference for one potential candidate in particular.

Nominations have opened to find a replacement for First Minister Humza Yousaf, who resigned this week. 

Two candidates - John Swinney and Kate Forbes - have said they are considering standing for the SNP leadership, but none have been confirmed. 

Ms Thomson, an SNP MSP for Falkirk East, says she "would like to see other candidates as well".

"It's very important that democracy is aired for people on the ground who are members of the SNP," she says. 

But she says she is urging Ms Forbes, who narrowly lost out to Mr Yousaf in last year's SNP leadership contest, to stand. 

The former finance secretary is "the brightest political brain I've seen and certainly of her generation", Ms Thomson says.

Ms Forbes has told Sky News she is considering entering the race. 

As has former deputy first minister and former SNP leader Mr Swinney, who said he is giving "very careful consideration" to the prospect of throwing his hat into the ring.

Ms Thomson describes Mr Swinney as an "extremely experienced politician" with a "huge amount to offer".

You can read more on the potential leadership contenders here:

Scrapping National Insurance payments would be a "ticking time bomb", shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson tells Sky News. 

In the budget in March, Chancellor Jeremy Hunt indicated plans to eventually scrap National Insurance contributions - a move Labour branded "reckless".

He later admitted to Sky News it "won't happen any time soon".

Ms Phillipson says it would open up a "£46bn black hole".

" More than 50 days on, we've had nothing from the government about how they're going to fund it, how they're going to pay for it, how all of that will work," Ms Phillipson says.

"It is just not good enough for ministers to set out this kind of bombshell with no plan, no detail around any of it."

Shadow education secretary Bridget Phillipson tells Sky News the government has been "slow to act" on knife crime - following an attack that left a 14-year-old dead yesterday.

"The government have been slow to act where it comes to cracking down on knife crime," she says.

"We've been pushing for further legislation, for further measures to stop young people... having access to knives and to take action on violent crime overall. 

"That, sadly, isn't what we've seen happen."

Earlier this morning, Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch told Sky News London's mayor Sadiq Khan was "failing" to tackle knife crime ( see post at 7.47am ).

Responding to the comments, Ms Phillipson says knife crime is a "nationwide issue", adding that now is not the time to "make political points".

Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch tells Sky News she is "pleased we've finally seen one person going to Rwanda".

Her comments come after the first failed asylum seeker was sent from the UK to Rwanda on Monday under a voluntary scheme. 

This "shows the point about Rwanda not being safe to be untrue because people are volunteering to go", Ms Badenoch claims.

The scheme is for those who have gone through the asylum process and had permission rejected, rather than for migrants who have illegally entered Britain by crossing the Channel on small boats.

It is separate to the powers set out in the controversial Safety of Rwanda Act, which became law last week. 

Ms Badenoch says after "so many obstacles" put in the way of that legislation, "the scheme is working". 

She cites comments made by the Irish government as evidence the Safety of Rwanda Act is working as a deterrent. 

"The scheme is working, as we've seen with the comments from the Irish government as well," she says. 

"This is something that we need to do in order to help police our borders."

You can read more on the Ireland-UK asylum seeker row here:

Business Secretary (and equalities minister) Kemi Badenoch is calling on people to give examples of organisations issuing "incorrect guidance" on single-sex spaces. 

She tells Sky News the aim is to tackle "confusion" on the matter.

"What I have noticed as equalities minister is that across the board there is a lot of confusion about when single-sex spaces are protected," she says. 

Rather than the government carrying out a "huge investigation that will cost lots of money", she is asking people to send examples if they think the guidance in their institution is wrong.

Asked whether that could invite transphobic responses, she replies: "No, not at all. And it shouldn't be."

"All we're saying is that if you think the guidance in your institution is wrong, let us know... and then we can help provide clarity."

Ms Badenoch's "call for input" comes a day after the health secretary announced plans to update the NHS Constitution to "ensure that biological sex is respected".

Read more on that here...

Business Secretary Kemi Badenoch tells Sky News the London mayor is failing to tackle knife crime - following an attack that left a 14-year-old dead yesterday.

She was responding to a question about how high a priority tackling knife crime is for the government - with official data showing it increased across England and Wales in 2022-23.

She replies it's a "very high priority", but says policing powers are devolved to the London mayor.

"Sadiq Khan is failing," she says, adding that he is "not taking this issue seriously enough".

"I think we really do need to put the spotlight on what the mayor of London is doing on knife crime, on policing the streets, on public order, " she says.

"He has the biggest police force. He has the one that has the most resources. He should be using them to keep people safe."

ONS data shows that in 2022-23, the West Midlands, led by Tory mayor Andy Street,  recorded the highest rate of 178 offences per 100,000 population .

Bin collections, potholes, local schools and town centres: Ruth Davidson and Jess Phillips were right in our Electoral Dysfunction podcast last week when they talked about these issues being the political meat of local elections when it comes to what voters want to talk about on the doorstep.

But it's true too that this set of local elections is hugely significant as the final big ballot test we're going to get before a general election.

Some 28 million people across England and Wales have the option of casting a vote - be it for councillors, mayors, London Assembly members or police and crime commissioners - and Labour is using this polling day as a dry run for a general election, testing their arguments, focusing their spending and attention in local battlegrounds where they need to win for general election victory.

And while much of the attention in the run-up to polling day has been on whether the results will trigger a full-blown leadership crisis for the Tories, what's perhaps more relevant to you the voters is what these elections tell us about the prospect of a majority Labour government.

Read more here:

By Daniel Dunford , senior data journalist

There might not be a general election just yet, but there are important votes that will define how the areas around us are run for the next four years. 

See what's happening where you are here:

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• International
• Foreign affairs

Universal Periodic Review 46: UK Statement on Cyprus

The UK's statement at Cyprus's Universal Periodic Review at the Human Rights Council.

Thank you, Mr Vice-President,

The UK recognises progress made by Cyprus on human rights, including in the area of women’s rights through approval of the 2024-2026 Strategy on Equality between Women and Men.

The UK also commends the steps taken by Cyprus to tackle corruption, including the 2022 adoption of an updated legal framework to fight corruption, and the establishment of the Independent Authority Against Corruption.

We recommend that Cyprus:

Strengthen cooperation with key international and non-government institutions to provide protection and assistance to refugees and asylum seekers.

Take further steps to tackle the rise of domestic violence, violence against women and sexual assault including through consistent and adequate investigation of sexual harassment complaints.

Ensure fair and full consideration to requests by its Muslim community to renovate and repair functioning Mosques, and to requests for temporary use of alternative Mosques during festivals.

Share this page

The following links open in a new tab

• Share on Facebook (opens in new tab)
• Share on Twitter (opens in new tab)

Is this page useful?

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.