What you need to enter Cyprus from the UK

Since Brexit, Cyprus has its own rules for British visitors, and they’re not quite the same as for Spain or France. The island is in the EU but not in Schengen, and it isn’t using the new Entry/Exit System. Here’s what you need, all from gov.uk’s Cyprus travel advice, updated in August 2026. The reason Cyprus sits outside Schengen is covered in is Cyprus in the EU and Schengen. Travelling with a pet? Its paperwork is in Cyprus with a dog, and your GHIC is covered in healthcare in Cyprus.

Passport rules

Gov.uk sets three conditions. Its issue date must fall within the last 10 years when you land, still valid 3 months beyond your planned departure, and have a free page for stamps. The first one is the trap, because an older passport can still be in date and not be accepted. If you’re getting married on the island, you’ll need more, a birth certificate and proof you’re free to marry, as set out in getting married in Cyprus.

Border officers can also ask to see your onward or return booking and evidence you can pay for your stay. I’d keep both on your phone, along with your accommodation details.

90 days without a visa

No visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days whether for a holiday, visiting family, business meetings, cultural or sports events or a short course. As gov.uk explains, the two clocks run separately, because Cyprus is outside Schengen.

Cyprus isn’t affected by the Entry/Exit System either, so there’s no registration when you arrive. Gov.uk does want you to check you get a stamp both arriving and leaving. Choosing between the airports? See how to get to Cyprus.

Once your dates are set, check which hotels are still free in Paphos before prices climb.

What not to pack

According to gov.uk, meat, milk and anything made with them may not be taken into Cyprus, with some exceptions such as powdered infant milk and baby food. So leave the sandwiches from home behind, or eat them before you land.

Always enter through the Republic

This rule really matters. Arrive via the north, say through Ercan airport, and gov.uk warns the Republic will treat it as illegal entry, with possible fines, refusal of entry or exit, or a ban on crossing back. Fly into Larnaca or Paphos.

If you would rather have a local show you round, book a guided tour in Paphos and choose by the reviews.

Crossing to the north

Once you’re in, you can visit the north with your passport. Gov.uk notes that only pedestrians can use the crossings at Ledra Palace and Ledra Street in Nicosia, and that the Republic counts the time you spend in the north towards your 90 days. The Green Line Regulation requires, at the very least, an identity check on everyone crossing. All the crossing points are in crossing to northern Cyprus.

Health cover

Take your GHIC or EHIC for medically necessary state treatment, gov.uk advises, and travel insurance on top. Money-wise it’s euros, as set out in Cyprus currency.

A car frees you from timetables: search car hire in Paphos on DiscoverCars and compare companies.

Once your dates are set, check which hotels are still free in Paphos before prices climb.