Cyprus – Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions

The advisory level decreased to 1. There were no changes to the risk indicators. Advisory summary was updated to reflect changes to U.S. embassy operations.

Exercise Normal Precautions in Cyprus. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Advisory Summary    

Cyprus is generally a safe destination for travelers.

United Nations Buffer Zone

Do not try to enter the United Nations buffer zone anywhere other than a designated crossing point. Police and UN peacekeeping forces strictly enforce this restriction.

Armed Conflict 

Following the onset of hostilities between the United States and Iran on February 28, there were significant disruptions to commercial flights.  

A drone struck a building on the British Sovereign Base Area on Cyprus on March 2, 2026.

Review our travel guidance for Cyprus to learn how to prepare for a safe trip.  

Risks in specific areas

Level 2 – Exercise Increased Caution

Turkish Cypriot Administered Area

Exercise Increased Caution in the Turkish Cypriot-Administered Area due to unrest.

• The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in this area.
• Human rights reports show that central prison and police detention facilities do not meet international standards.

Since 1974, the southern part of Cyprus has been under the control of the internationally recognized Government of the Republic of Cyprus. However, the northern part of Cyprus is administered by Turkish Cypriots. It 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 Türkiye. A buffer zone, patrolled by the UN Peacekeeping Force in Cyprus, separates the 2 sides.

For U.S. citizen travelers:

• Enter and exit the island of Cyprus only at Larnaca and Paphos airports or at the seaports of Limassol, Larnaca, and Paphos. The Republic of Cyprus does not consider entry or exit via Ercan Airport or by a seaport in the north to be legal. U.S. citizens who leave the island from Ercan could face challenges returning to the Republic of Cyprus in the future.
• You cannot receive a residency permit from the Republic of Cyprus to live in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots.
• The Republic of Cyprus does not recognize residence permits issued by Turkish Cypriots. If you arrive to the island at a north seaport or Ercan airport or stay in the Turkish Cypriot-administered area for over 90 days, you may be denied entry into the Republic of Cyprus.
• The U.S. Embassy has limited ability to help U.S. citizens in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus does not control the area. Travelers should consider this when planning their activities.

If you decide to travel to Cyprus:  

• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy or consulate. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy or consulate contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency.
• Review the Country Security Report.
• Follow local laws and guidance from Cypriot authorities during your visit.
• Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information before you travel.  
• Whether you’re a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist.

• We highly recommend that you buy insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.