Traveler Toolkit
Cyprus Country Security Report
Cyprus Country Security Report
Published: June 25, 2026
This report is intended to supplement the U.S. Department of State Cyprus Travel Advisory and Cyprus Country Information Page.
Embassy & Consulate Contact Information
Metochoiu & Ploutachou Streets, 2407 Engomi, Nicosia
Tel: +357-22-39-3939; Regional Security Office: +357-22-39-3548; American Citizen Services (during business hours): +357-22-39-3353
After-hours Emergencies: +357-22-39-3300. Hours: 0800 – 1300, Monday – Friday.
OSAC Country Chapter(s)
The Nicosia Country Council currently meets once a year and has approximately 10 members.
Contact OSAC’s Europe team with any questions.
Cyprus Travel Advisory
The current U.S. Department of State Travel Advisory at the date of this report’s publication indicates that travelers should Exercise Normal Precautions when traveling to Cyprus. On March 3, 2026, the Department of State authorized non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government employee family members to leave Cyprus due to safety risks, but on June 1, this authorized departure was lifted and the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia returned to a normal operational capacity.
Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the government of the Republic of Cyprus. The northern part of Cyprus, administered by Turkish Cypriots, proclaimed itself the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”) in 1983. The United States does not recognize the “TRNC,” nor does any country other than Turkey. A buffer zone patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus separates the two sides. Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to enter the United Nations buffer zone at any place other than a designated crossing point.
Crime
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Cyprus as being a LOW-threat location for crime directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Crime “C” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus.
The emergency lines in the ROC are 199 and 112.
In the “TRNC,” emergency contact number for the police is 155.
Review the U.S. Department of State’s Crime Victims Assistance brochure.
Crime: General Threat
Cyprus is generally a safe country that experiences less violent crime than other European countries. However, crimes of opportunity do occur. Most street crimes are non-violent and non-confrontational, ranging from scams to petty theft. Street criminals are generally unarmed and not prone to gratuitous violence. Despite this general low risk of crime, it is worth noting that over the past 3 years, Cyprus has experienced a steady increase in all forms of crime. “Serious Crimes”, the local distinction for violent crime, rose roughly 6% in 2025, but it should be noted that even this increase is small relative to the number of criminal events; Cyprus had 13 homicides and 227 violent offenses in 2025. Property offenses rose about 8% and represent the majority of all crime in Cyprus; local authorities attribute this increase to increased migrant flow into the country. Local law enforcement has a 78% resolution rate, higher than many other European countries, and report that Western interests are not specifically targeted by local criminal actors.
Roughly 30%-40% of all crime is property crime, including burglary and cargo theft. Although residential burglaries occur infrequently, burglars are more likely to target empty residences and homes without an alarm or other security precautions (e.g., shutters, additional locks on doors/windows). Burglaries of commercial establishments (e.g., jewelry shops, convenience stores, and sometimes banks) have also occurred.
Incidents linked to organized crime have consistently risen in previous years, and have become more brazen. Criminal incidents involving improvised explosive devices (IEDs), incendiary devices, and small arms, primarily attributed to organized crime, occur infrequently. Cyprus has experienced a handful of targeted killings of alleged members of organized crime groups over the last few years. While these crimes are focused on other members of the syndicates, they have occurred in public spaces, during day light hours and can disrupt the public. Online gambling is the originating cause of many crimes, including loan sharking, threats, blackmail, and even kidnapping. Sporadic bombings, shootings, and arson have occurred since 2010. These incidents typically involve conflicts between rival organized crime groups and are not associated with terrorism. The attacks are intended to send a message to recipient, but occasionally cause injury or fatality. These incidents have normally occurred in the late evening or early morning hours but may occur at any time. Most reported IEDs did not result in an explosion.
Crime: Areas of Concern
There are no areas on the island of Cyprus that are off limits to U.S. Embassy staff.
Tourist areas can experience petty crime. Rates of street crimes (e.g., pickpocketing, purse snatching) remain steady. Muggings and armed robberies are uncommon, but stories about these incidents have appeared in local media. Thefts of valuables left in plain sight in unattended vehicles do occur. The number of opportunistic crimes (e.g., pickpocketing, purse snatching, car break in, robbery, home burglary) rises during the holidays and the summer when many homes are vacant. Sexual assaults are uncommon but have occurred. Be alert and aware of your surroundings and of your personal belongings. Criminals often target those who are distracted, alone in an isolated area, or impaired.
Criminal activity in the northern part of Cyprus is reportedly low. The highest number of robberies in the Turkish Cypriot administrated area occur in Kyrenia, Famagusta, and northern Nicosia. Night clubs in the north have also presented foreign patrons with grossly inflated bar tabs, threatening customers who refuse to pay with bodily harm.
Review OSAC’s reports, All That You Should Leave Behind, Hotels: The Inns and Outs, Considerations for Hotel Security, Taking Credit, and Our Two Cents: Petty Crime Basics and How to Minimize the Risk.
Kidnapping Threat
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Kidnapping “K” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus.
Cyprus is a trafficking destination for persons subjected to forced prostitution and labor. The government-controlled Republic of Cyprus (ROC) is a destination for sex trafficking, which occurs in private apartments and hotels, on the street, and within commercial sex outlets.
In the unrecognized “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus” (“TRNC”), sex trafficking is a significant problem. Avoid so-called “night clubs” (topless bars), as they reportedly employ women trafficked to Cyprus for sexual exploitation. While prostitution is illegal under “TRNC” law, a trafficking “law” does not exist; nightclub workers, who live at the clubs, regularly report that employers seize their passports, leaving them little freedom of movement.
Domestic laborers, agricultural workers, asylum seekers, and foreign migrants are vulnerable for trafficking for forced labor in the construction and agricultural sectors across the island of Cyprus.
Review OSAC’s reports, Kidnapping: The Basics and Active Shooter and Kidnapping Response Tips.
Terrorism
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Cyprus as being a MEDIUM-threat location for terrorism directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Terrorism “T” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus.
International terrorism continues to be a concern, as authorities only lightly scrutinize movement between EU member countries. Cyprus has vulnerabilities associated with the de facto political division of the island and the relative ease with which people can move across the buffer zone undetected.
Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possible near-term attacks in Europe and Cyprus. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations, although there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Cyprus. Terrorist groups, including their associates, and lone-actor perpetrators inspired by such organizations, are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack—including edged weapons, pistols, and vehicles—to target crowds more effectively. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets.
Since the October 7, 2023 Hamas terrorist attack in Israel and Israel’s subsequent reaction, there have been increased calls by terrorist organizations like ISIS and al-Qa’ida to attack targets in Europe. Republic of Cyprus (ROC) authorities have taken enhanced security measures to prevent terrorist actions following Hamas’s October 7 attack on Israel. The Cyprus National Police have increased patrols at airports, harbors, marinas, and ports. They have assessed high-threat targets – mostly of Israeli and U.S. interests – and provided frequent patrols, including at all synagogues in Larnaca, Limassol, and Paphos.
Cypriot police detained multiple Palestinian men in late May 2026 after discovering explosive-making materials and chemical mixtures. A court ordered these suspects to face trial in August 2026. In June 2025, the ROC and Israel cooperated to foil an Iranian-ordered attack against Israelis and Jews in Cyprus. While neither the ROC nor Israel provided details, media reported two individuals were believed to be in the early stages of gathering intelligence on potential Israeli targets, having crossed into the ROC government controlled-area from the Turkish Cypriot-controlled area in the North.
On March 2, 2026, Cyprus was targeted by Iranian unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) as part of an ongoing conflict in the Middle East. For more information on this, please see the “Armed Conflict” section below.
Political Violence and Civil Unrest
The U.S. Department of State has assessed Cyprus as being a MEDIUM-threat location for political violence directed at or affecting official U.S. government interests.
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Civil Unrest “U” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus. Civil unrest can develop quickly without prior notice, often interrupting logistics and services. Avoid demonstration activity, as even those planned to remain peaceful have the potential to turn violent.
Elections/Political Stability
Cyprus is a Parliamentary Republic with 80 representatives. Since 1963, the 24 seats allocated to Turkish Cypriots have been vacant, as they withdrew from the institutions of the Republic of Cyprus, and the House of Representatives has de facto consisted of 56 seats.
In 2023, Cyprus held free and fair presidential elections. The president is elected for a five-year term. While far-right groups in Cyprus use increasing number of migrants to the island to try to show the current administration’s weaknesses, Cyprus is a politically stable country.
In May 2026, Cyprus held an election for all active 56 of the 80 seats of the Parliament. Centre-right Democratic Rally (DISY) secured the most seats, ahead of the left-wing AKEL. Far-right ELAM achieved historic breakthrough into third place. EU officials identified the elections as free and fair.
Protests & Demonstrations
Demonstrations in support of international movements such as world peace and the environment are common, largely peaceful, and focus on government buildings. Protesters tend to occupy streets and block the flow of traffic. Economic conditions in the north have also led to demonstrations, primarily by public sector workers. Recent demonstrations in Cyprus have focused on escalating tensions in the Middle East and the UK’s role in the crisis. In September 2024, pro-Palestinian demonstrators peacefully protested at the gates of the UK’s airbase in Akrotiri. The protest only had about 200 demonstrators who left after an hour, and appeared to be hosted by a political party, rather than a grassroots movement.
While most demonstrations are peaceful, protests can turn violent very quickly. In July 2025, the Cypriot Parliament passed a controversial bill tightening rules on public assemblies, requiring 7-day advance notices and expanding police powers to disperse gatherings. Following heavy criticism from civil society groups, opposition parties, and human rights bodies, Parliament was forced to amend the legislation, stripping back some of the most draconian measures like mandatory organizers and blanket bans on protests.
Review OSAC’s report, Surviving a Protest.
Anti-U.S./Anti-Western Sentiment
Demonstrations against the United States in Cyprus over the recent decades have been non-violent and focused on the U.S. foreign policy in the region. None of the demonstrations hindered the activities of U.S. private-sector organizations.
Law Enforcement
Police in the ROC enforce the law and combat criminal activity. Police report to the Ministry of Justice and Public Order. Units include traffic police, emergency response unit, crime investigations, and others. The president appoints the chief of police. Civilian authorities maintain effective control over the security forces. Members of the security forces have committed some abuses.
A substantial number of Turkish troops remain on the island. A buffer zone, or “Green Line,” patrolled by a UN peacekeeping force, separates the ROC and the unrecognized “TRNC.”
Police Response
Expect slower response times in rural areas. ROC police speak English. In the area administered by Turkish Cypriots, “authorities” do not speak English.
The emergency lines in the ROC are 199 and 112.
In the “TRNC,” emergency contact number for the police is 155.
ROC Divisional Police Headquarters:
- Nicosia: +357-22 80 20 20
- Limassol: +357-25 80 50 50
- Larnaka: +357-24 80 40 40
- Paphos: +357-26 80 60 60
- Ammochostos: +357-23 80 30 30
ROC Police/Citizens Communication Line: 1460
Armed Conflict
On March 2, 2026, an Iranian-manufactured Shahed-type drone struck the runway of RAF Akrotiri, a British Sovereign Base Area on the island. While the drone caused only minimal damage and no casualties, it marked a significant expansion of the Iran conflict into European soil. Cypriot and British officials believe the drone was launched by the Iran-backed group Hezbollah from Lebanon rather than directly from Iranian territory. The strike followed a period of intense threats from Hezbollah leadership, who warned that Cyprus would be considered "part of the war" if it allowed its territory to be used for military operations against them. In response to these developments, Cyprus has significantly increased its security posture, launching initiatives like the SafeCy app to help citizens locate emergency shelters
Transportation Security
Road Safety
Driving is on the left. A combination of human factors, unusual road design, and a general disregard for safe driving practices can result in hazardous conditions for pedestrians and motorists alike. Defensive driving is essential. Incidents of reckless driving and road rage (e.g., tailgating, honking, shouting) occasionally result in traffic accidents and physical altercations.
Traffic accidents are a regular occurrence throughout Cyprus. Motorcycles and scooters normally drive between lanes and weave in/out of traffic at high speeds. Cyprus’s traffic fatality rate is among the highest in the European Union.
Pedestrians should take particular care, as sidewalks are frequently absent or narrow, and filled with potholes and tripping hazards. Where sidewalks do not exist, people walk and bike on the road, causing serious safety issues. Pedestrian crossings at intersections designated by zebra stripes are difficult to see. Drivers often ignore a pedestrian's right of way.
Major roads in the larger cities are in relatively good condition, and street signs are usually written in both English and Greek. In most cases, secondary roads are narrow two-lane strips with little/no shoulder. Street signs (when present) are small and offer little navigational value. Most drivers learn locations by landmarks rather than street signs.
In the north, two-lane roads are mostly narrow, with little/no shoulder. Street signs mostly contain Turkish wording, with some in English. Street signs and most GPS offer little assistance in navigation.
The opening and closing of businesses and schools also affects traffic in Nicosia. Many stores close for one to two hours at lunchtime, and public schools let out at about 1300, causing midday traffic. Rush hour is from 0700-0830, during lunchtime, and again from 1500-1800. Rush hour begins even earlier on Wednesday afternoons, when many offices close at approximately 1330.
Due to the lack of public transportation, traffic is particularly problematic in Nicosia, where there are too many cars for the road system to handle. Traffic accidents often coincide with rush hour, and parking is difficult in congested areas downtown.
The use of seat belts (in front seats) and child car seats is mandatory. The use of cellular phones while driving is prohibited unless used with some form of hands-free kit. Motorcyclists must wear helmets, and all drivers must carry liability insurance.
In the event of a car accident, immediately contact the vehicle insurance company or the car rental agency to file a police report. Although you do not have to file a police report in a minor fender bender where both parties’ car insurance companies can handle the situation, you must file a police report if there is serious damage or bodily injury involved. It is common for the police to request that a driver accompany them to the nearest police station to complete an accident report. In the “TRNC,” immediately contact the vehicle insurance company or the car rental agency and file a police report.
Review OSAC’s reports, Road Safety Abroad, Driving Overseas: Best Practices, and Evasive Driving Techniques; and read the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on driving and road safety abroad.
Public Transportation Safety
Public transportation consists of bus service available throughout the island. Buses are safe and inexpensive, but service is limited. Taxis and rideshare options are widely available.
Aviation Concerns
The ROC has two major international airports: one in Larnaca (LCA) and another in Paphos (PFO). Both airports meet international standards for safety and security. Ercan International Airport (ECN), which is not an ROC-recognized entry point into Cyprus, serves the “TRNC;” entering via ECN can create issues for travelers who plan to visit the ROC.
Review OSAC’s Report, Security in Transit: Airplanes, Public Transport, and Overnights.
Maritime Security
Consult with the Stable Seas Maritime Security Index for detailed information and ratings regarding rule of law, law enforcement, piracy, and other maritime security indicators.
Travelers with Special Considerations
For specific traveler concerns in Cyprus, review the local laws and circumstances on the U.S. Department of State’s Country Information Page.
Rule of Law, Arbitrary Detention, Official Harassment, Corruption, & Transparency
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Risk of Wrongful Detention “D” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus. If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
ROC law requires court warrants, and authorities cannot detain a person for more than one day unless a court granted an extension. Most periods of investigative detention do not exceed 10 days before the filing of formal charges. Authorities promptly inform detainees of the charges against them in a language they could understand.
In the area administered by Turkish Cypriots, “police” can keep detainees in custody for up to three months, but a “judge” needs to review the detention after the third day and every eight days thereafter. Turkish Cypriot “authorities” generally respect this right and usually informed detainees promptly of charges against them, although they often hold individuals believed to have committed a violent offense for longer periods without charge.
ROC law provides criminal penalties for corruption by officials, and the government generally implements the laws effectively. Although the government generally investigates and prosecutes cases of corruption, there have been numerous recent reports of alleged government corruption. Private-sector concerns focus on the inertia in the system, as reflected in the ROC Auditor General’s annual reports, listing hundreds of alleged incidents of corruption and mismanagement in public administration that usually remain unpunished or unrectified.
Health Concerns
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Health “H” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus. Review the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) country-specific Travel Health Notices for current health issues that impact traveler health, like disease outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters.
Call 112 or 199 for emergency medical response. For drug information and poison control, call 1401.
The dry air on the island may aggravate respiratory ailments and allergies.
The following non-vaccine-preventable diseases are present in Cyprus: leptospirosis, leishmaniasis, hantavirus, and tuberculosis.
Find contact information for available medical services and available air ambulance services on the U.S. Embassy website. The U.S. Department of State strongly recommends purchasing international health insurance before traveling internationally. Review the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on health insurance overseas.
See OSAC’s Guide to U.S. Government-Assisted Evacuations; review OSAC’s reports, The Healthy Way, Shaken: The Don’ts of Alcohol Abroad, Health 101: How to Prepare for Travel, and Fire Safety Abroad; and visit the U.S. Department of State’s webpage on Your Health Abroad for more information.
Vaccinations
Cyprus is free of dog rabies. However, rabies may still be present in wildlife species, particularly bats. CDC recommends rabies vaccination before travel only for people working directly with wildlife. These people may include veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers working with specimens from mammalian species.
Review the CDC Travelers’ Health site for country-specific vaccine recommendations.
Issues Traveling with Medications
If traveling with prescription medication, check with the Republic of Cyprus to ensure the medication is legal in Cyprus. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. You should similarly confirm with authorities in the “TRNC” to ensure any medication you are carrying will not present problems. Contact the “Drug and Pharmacy Office” at +90392-2284156 or +90392-2284001.
Review OSAC’s report, Traveling with Medication.
Water Quality
The water in Cyprus is considered safe to drink, but most Cypriots drink bottled or filtered water.
Review OSAC’s report, I’m Drinking What in My Water?
Natural Disasters
The U.S. Department of State has not included a Natural Disaster “N” Indicator on the Travel Advisory for Cyprus, indicating that a natural disaster, or its aftermath, poses danger.
The possibility of earthquakes is a concern, as Cyprus is located in the world’s second-most earthquake-prone zone. Minor tremors occur regularly, but most are imperceptible. There are 8-10 moderate quakes per year, with the risk of a major quake ever-present. Most houses are constructed accordingly.
Review OSAC’s report, Earthquake Preparedness Toolkit.
Cybersecurity
Fraud-related crimes remain low in relation to population size, but cybercrimes are increasing. Cybersecurity should be a priority for any organization operating in Cyprus. OSAC cannot overstress the importance of using only legitimate software.
Financial crimes conducted over the internet have increased as scammers attempt to convince you to send them money. These fraudulent schemes can include claims that make it appear you are helping a loved one or a friend who has been injured or is in trouble, online dating/social networking services, inheritance notices, work permits/job offers, and claims of bank overpayments.
Cypriot firms faced an average of one cyberattack every eight days in 2025, up from one every ten days in 2024. More than half of all businesses (53%) and one in three citizens (33%) in Cyprus experienced a cyberattack, according to nationwide data released by the Digital Security Authority (DSA) and the Communications Commissioner. The geographic location and growing digital cloud footprint of Cyprus made it an increasingly high-value target for international cybercriminals.
Review OSAC’s reports, Cybersecurity Basics, Best Practices for Maximizing Security on Public Wi-Fi, Traveling Abroad with Mobile Devices, and Guide for Overseas Satellite Phone Usage.
Counterintelligence Issues
Economic espionage concerns are on par with other EU countries. The private sector should take care to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data by following normal best business practices, including use of authorized IT software.
The ROC has robust Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) legislation, including on copyright, allowing the sampling of evidence and facilitating prosecution of violators. Merchandise piracy has decreased significantly in recent years, largely due to aggressive enforcement by the Department of Customs and the police.
In mid-2025, Cypriot and Israeli security services coordinated to thwart a major Iranian plot, resulting in the arrest of a British national of Azerbaijani descent. The individual was caught executing surveillance on RAF Akrotiri, a British sovereign air base. Regional counter-espionage investigations in early 2026 also exposed an IRGC-linked ring trying to establish front companies in Cyprus. The network intended to use these commercial entities to illegally move explosive unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and advanced military hardware across borders.
Import/Export Restrictions
There are limited restrictions on the import of personal medication and no restrictions on the import and use of personal satellite products in Cyprus.
A country-specific listing of items/goods prohibited from being exported to the country or that are otherwise restricted is available from the U.S. International Trade Agency website.