Cyprus

The following information will only apply once COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted.

Travel in the north

Turkish-Cypriot authorities in the north issue residence permits, identity cards and other documents. Be aware that the Republic of Cyprus and other countries may not recognise these documents.

Use your Australian passport for all travel into or out of Cyprus and Turkey.

Turkey does not accept ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ ID cards as entry or travel documents.

Travelling to or from the north

If you arrive through legal ports of entry in the south, you can cross into the north.

The following crossing points are temporarily closed:

• Ledra Street
• Astromeritis
• Lefka
• Derynia
• Limnitis
• Strovilia

Ledra Palace (pedestrians only), Ayios Dhometios and Pergamos crossing points remain open.

In response to COVID-19, Turkish-Cypriot authorities are denying entry into northern Cyprus for all non-residents (including Australian nationals) or if you are travelling in a group of 10 or more people. You may be medically checked for COVID-19 symptoms.

You’ll be required to self-isolate for 14 days regardless which country you travelled from. If you do not self-isolate you may be arrested.

Open checkpoints operate 24 hours a day, but operating times can change at short or no notice.

You’ll need to show your passport to officials when entering and leaving the north. Turkish-Cypriot authorities may stamp your passport. Evidence of travel to and from the north may lead to questions by Republic of Cyprus authorities and other countries.

You can take private vehicles or hire cars through checkpoints from the south to the north. However, you can’t take hire cars from the north to the south. No cars can cross at Ledra Street and Ledra Palace.

Check your car insurance to ensure you have coverage for the area you want to drive through. Car hire companies offer insurance. Be aware that their insurance may only cover you in the north or the south.

If you plan to travel to other regional destinations, read the travel advice of these countries. Some countries may refuse you entry if your passport or luggage contains evidence of travel to the non-government controlled north.

Staying in the north

Republic of Cyprus authorities have deemed some accommodation in the north illegal. The Republic of Cyprus has warned visitors about staying in this accommodation.

Check Cypriot Government websites for details. See ‘Visas’ above.

Carrying goods between the north and south

You may need to present your goods for inspection when you cross between the north and south.

Strict controls apply to items bought in the north, including:

Republic of Cyprus police or customs authorities may confiscate these items. They may also fine you.

Customs authorities in northern Cyprus enforce a limit on the purchase of goods in the south.

Both sides enforce quarantine rules on food.

More information:

Driving permit

You can only use your Australian driver’s licence for 6 months from your date of arrival. 

You’ll need to obtain a local driving licence to continue to drive after 6 months. To get a local licence, refer to the Road Transport Department.

The minimum age for driving is 18 years.

Road travel

Road accidents are a major risk.

Most roads are of a good standard but some secondary and mountain roads are poorly maintained.

Driving practices can be poor. Drivers often:

Be careful crossing roads, as traffic may not follow signals.

Be aware of quad bikes on roads. 

The UN and military restricts access to roads in the UN Buffer Zone. Parts of this zone have landmines.

If you plan to drive:

• only hire cars from reputable companies

• make sure you’ve got the right licence for the vehicle you plan to drive

• check your insurance covers you in the north and the south

More information:

Motorcycles

Check with your insurer if your policy covers you using a motorbike, quad bike, dune buggy or similar vehicle.

A lot of serious injuries and deaths from quad bike accidents happen each year, particularly in tourist areas. Follow directions on where you can and can’t ride quad bikes or similar vehicles.

Always wear a helmet.

Taxis

Use only authorised taxi and limousine services. Arrange them through your hotel if possible.

Unofficial taxis may overcharge.

Public transport

Bus services operate throughout Cyprus.

Theft can occur on public transport. Take care of your belongings.

More information:

Sea travel

Before taking a ferry or other boat, make sure it has the right safety gear. A number of international cruise lines stop over in Cyprus.

More information:

Air travel

DFAT doesn’t provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Cyprus’ air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

More information:

Read the original advice at SmartTraveller.gov.au by Australian Government