Cyprus

Source: New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade – Safe Travel

If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Exercise increased caution in Cyprus (level 2 of 4). 

Cyprus

The Government of the Republic of Cyprus exercises control in the (Greek Cypriot) southern part of the island. The northern part operates under an autonomous Turkish Cypriot administration, with a United Nations peacekeeping force controlling the buffer zone (or “green line”) between them. As New Zealand does not recognize the Turkish Cypriot administration, assistance to New Zealanders in the northern part of Cyprus is limited.

Crime
The crime rate in Cyprus is low, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, particularly in urban and tourist areas.  When violent crime does occur, it often involves gang disputes and targets individuals linked to organised crime.

New Zealanders are advised to be security conscious in public places, guard belongings carefully and never leave bags open or unattended. Extra care should be taken to ensure food and drink is never left unattended. Victims of spiked drinks have been robbed and sometimes assaulted.

Civil unrest
Minor demonstrations take place occasionally, often in urban areas and near government buildings. Strikes occur periodically, and can interfere with public transport. New Zealanders are advised to avoid all protests, demonstrations and rallies as they have the potential to turn violent.

Local travel
It is possible to travel to the north of Cyprus from the south (and back again), including at checkpoints in central Nicosia where you can cross by foot. Do not attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN forces strictly enforce this restriction.

If you enter Cyprus through the north (such as via Ercan airport), you are considered by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to have entered Cyprus through an illegal port of entry. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus reserves the right to fine you for illegal entry if you then cross into the Republic, or decline you entry into or exit from the Republic.

Terrorism
Terrorist groups, including individuals returning to Europe from areas of conflict, and individuals adhering to various forms of extremist ideologies, continue to make threats to conduct attacks across Europe. Cypriot authorities have successfully disrupted terrorist activity in recent years.  However, terrorist attacks in Cyprus cannot be ruled out – they could occur opportunistically, including in areas frequented by foreigners.

New Zealanders in Cyprus are advised to keep themselves informed of potential risks to safety and security by monitoring the media and other local information sources. We recommend following any instructions issued by the local authorities and exercising vigilance in public places.

General travel advice
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs in Cyprus are severe and can include lengthy imprisonment or heavy fines.

Avoid photography of military establishments and personnel or anything that could be perceived as a security interest. If in doubt, don’t take a picture.

Cyprus is located in an active seismic zone and minor earthquakes are relatively common. In the event of any natural disaster, follow the advice of the local authorities.New Zealanders travelling or living in Cyprus should have a comprehensive travel insurance policy in place that includes provision for medical evacuation by air.

New Zealanders travelling or living in Cyprus are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.

Travel tips

The New Zealand Embassy Rome, Italy is accredited to Cyprus

Street Address Via Clitunno, 44, 00198 Rome, Italy Telephone +39 06 853 7501 Fax +39 06 440 2984 Email rome@nzembassy.it Web Site https://www.mfat.govt.nz/en/countries-and-regions/europe/italy/new-zealand-embassy/#bookmark0 Hours Mon- Fri 0900 -1230 and 1330-1630 Note We encourage you to make an appointment to ensure prompt service.

The New Zealand Honorary Consulate Nicosia, Cyprus

Street Address Kondilaki 6, 1090 Lefkosia, Nicosia Telephone +357 22 818 884 Mobile +357 9 9570 454 Email chris.c@actionprgroup.com Hours By appointment

See our regional advice for Europe

MIL OSI