Cyprus travel advice: Latest guidance for tourists as coronavirus outbreak spreads

The Cypriot government has updated its travel advice

Coronavirus is continuing to spread around the globe, with thousands of new cases confirmed each day.

Airlines around the world are cancelling flights and suspending entire routes.

Countries in mainland Europe are increasingly introducing travel restrictions and implementing extraordinary measures, including the closure of shops and restaurants.

Cyprus has updated its advice for incoming travellers.

Here’s what you need to know.

What’s the FCO advice for Cyprus?

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises against all but essential travel to the Republic of Cyprus, in line with various controls and restrictions imposed by the Cypriot authorities.

The Republic of Cyprus government announced that UK nationals (and other non-Cypriots) will no longer be permitted to enter the Republic of Cyprus for “tourist purposes”. UK nationals may enter if they are legal residents of Cyprus, working there, attend educational institutions there or, with prior authorisation from the Cypriot government, have unavoidable professional obligations.

All hotels and tourist accommodation have been instructed to shut down operations by 21 March and to remain closed until 30 April. The government has stated that all tourists will need to leave their accommodation by 21 March.

New rules in Cyprus for non-tourists

As of 6pm on 16 March, UK nationals who are non-tourists entering Cyprus must present a medical certificate issued within the past four days to show they have tested negative for Covid-19. They must then enter a 14-day quarantine in state facilities. These restrictions are in force until 30 April.

Following policy changes announced by the Republic of Cyprus Government and the administration in the north, British nationals will be unable to cross either the Greek Cypriot or Turkish Cypriot crossing points in either direction regardless of their residency status until further notice.

As part of its coronavirus response, the Cyprus government has also banned indoor events of over 75 people and other mass events. If you are due to attend an event, the FCO advises checking with the event organiser before travelling​

Is Cyprus affected by coronavirus?

At the moment, Cyprus has 33 confirmed cases of coronavirus according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

There have been zero deaths due to Covid-19 in the country.