Cyprus shares with the rest of Europe a threat from international terrorism. Attacks could be indiscriminate and against civilian targets. Please read Security and General Tips and Risk of Terrorism when Travelling Overseas for further information and advice.

 

 

There have been a number of bombings and tourching of cars, mainly in the Limassol and Nicosia areas over the past few years. Although the perpetrators have rarely been identified, these activities are restricted for the most part to infighting among the criminal fraternity.

 

Crimes against tourists are uncommon. You should, however, safeguard passports, money and other valuables. Over recent months there has been an increase of theft of passports. Tourists should be aware that room safes and hotel safety deposit boxes have also been targeted.

 

 

The Republic of Cyprus is a full member of the EU. But the country remains divided by the “Green Line” which separates the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" from the rest of the island. The “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” is not recognised by the British Government.

 

 

The partial lifting of restrictions on crossing the “Green Line” allows Cypriots and non-visa nationals to cross in both directions at designated crossing points. It is possible to travel to the north of Cyprus from the south by crossing at several checkpoints, including the Ledra Palace checkpoint in central Nicosia. You may take a hired car through the checkpoints, except at Ledra Palace, which is for pedestrians only. You are strongly advised, however, to check the insurance implications with your car hire company before doing so. It is possible to hire a car once you have crossed into the north and to purchase appropriate insurance. There are controls on the quantities and types of goods that can be purchased in the north and brought into the south.  Goods, including cigarettes, may be confiscated at the checkpoint and heavy fines imposed.

 

Documents relating to the purchase of property in northern Cyprus will be presumed by the Cypriot authorities to relate to the illegal transfer of Greek Cypriot property and may be subject to confiscation when crossing the Green Line.  Anyone in possession of these documents may be asked to make a statement to the Cypriot authorities.

 

British and other foreign nationals who have entered Cyprus through the north 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 EU (including British) citizens for illegal entry if they cross into the south. In practice, their current policy is not to do so.

On Sunday 30 April 2006, individuals of all nationalities within north Cyprus will be required to stay in their homes or hotels from 05:00 to 18:00 for Turkish Cypriot authorities to conduct a census.  Turkish Cypriot census officers will be conducting door-to-door interviews.  Exceptions will be made for those arriving into or leaving from north Cyprus on 30 April.  Persons leaving north Cyprus will be allowed to travel to their port of exit by obtaining permission in advance through their tour operator or on showing their travel documents.  Limited exceptions will also be made for tourists undertaking programmed activities if your tour operator has applied in advance.  You are advised to contact your tour operator for further details.