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2 ways to enter

Cyprus visas

Cyprus transit visa

Most passengers can change flights without a visa if they stay in one airport's international transit area for less than one day. Some nationalities need an airport transit visa even when staying in that area.

Ways to get a Cyprus transit visa

  1. Transit without a visa

    Transit without a visa

    Passengers who do not need an airport transit visa, or qualify for an exemption, can transfer within one airport without entering Cyprus.

    Stay
    Strictly less than 24 hours.

Who needs it

Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Cameroon, Sudan and Turkey need an airport transit visa unless exempt.

Who doesn't

Exemptions cover holders of certain visas or residence permits, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

Changing planes

Can you stay airside?
Yes, without a visa if you stay in the transit area
Leaving the airport
The transit exemption only covers transfers that do not leave the international transit area. If you leave that area, the normal Cyprus entry rules apply.
Longest transit
24 hours
Transit without a visa
Stay for strictly less than 24 hours in the international transit area of one airport. Your connection and the airport layout must allow this. If your nationality requires an airport transit visa, you must hold it or qualify for an exemption.

What to bring

  • An airport transit visa if required, or a document proving an exemption.

Good to know

  • Remain in the international transit area when using the transit-without-visa route.
  • The transfer must be within one airport.
  • The limit is less than 24 hours, not a full 24 hours.
  • Whether you can remain in the transit area depends on your flights and the airport layout.

Questions

Do I need a transit visa for Cyprus?

Citizens of Afghanistan, Bangladesh, DR Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Cameroon, Sudan and Turkey need an airport transit visa unless exempt. Exemptions cover holders of certain visas or residence permits, diplomatic passport holders, family members of EU single market citizens and flight crew.

What are the ways to get a transit visa for Cyprus?

There are 2 options: Transit without a visa (transit without a visa); Airport transit visa (a visa from an embassy).

How long can I stay on a Cyprus transit visa?

Less than one day for transit without a visa.

What documents do I need for a Cyprus transit visa?

An airport transit visa if required, or a document proving an exemption..

How long can I stay in transit in Cyprus?

Up to 24 hours, if you meet the conditions. Stay for strictly less than 24 hours in the international transit area of one airport. Your connection and the airport layout must allow this. If your nationality requires an airport transit visa, you must hold it or qualify for an exemption.

Can I stay inside the airport in Cyprus without a visa?

Yes, staying in the international transit area is allowed for most travellers. To leave the airport: The transit exemption only covers transfers that do not leave the international transit area. If you leave that area, the normal Cyprus entry rules apply.

What rules do I have to follow on a Cyprus transit visa?

Remain in the international transit area when using the transit-without-visa route. The transfer must be within one airport.

Does my passport change whether I need a transit visa for Cyprus?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Cyprus visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a transit visa for Cyprus be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Cyprus transit visa rules?

On Cyprus's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

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