What cannot be taken out of Northern Cyprus across the Green Line?

The border between Northern Cyprus and the southern part of the island is open, but not all products purchased in the north can be freely taken across.

• History of the issue
• Permitted goods for export
• Prohibited goods for export
• Temporary import of goods from TRNC
• Frequently asked questions about TRNC customs

History of the issue

Since 2004, residents of both states on the island have been allowed to cross the so-called Green Line — the buffer zone between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the Republic of Cyprus. Today, tourists can also cross this line. Consequently, trade between the two states has increased and continues to grow year by year.

The most recent legislative act concerning trade between the North and South was enacted in June 2023, largely reiterating the regulations from 2004 when the border first opened. Below, we provide these rules along with updates from any subsequent amendments.

Permitted Items for Transport from TRNC to Cyprus:

The following goods can be transported per person, with restrictions on alcohol and tobacco applying only to individuals over 17 years old.

• Cigarettes: 2 packs or 40 cigarettes (other tobacco products are prohibited)
• Alcohol: 1 liter (any strength)
• Agricultural products: Up to 3 kg
• Processed plant-based products (e.g., juices, olive oil, olives, jams): quantities reasonable for personal consumption

Other personal items not on the prohibited list are allowed, provided their total value does not exceed €260 per person.

Prohibited Items for Transport from TRNC to Cyprus:

All tobacco products except for 40 cigarettes
Fuel (other than what's in the vehicle’s tank)
Counterfeit branded goods
Meat, seafood, dairy products
Pine and chestnut firewood
Citrus fruits, trees, and saplings
Grapes, vines, and fruit-bearing or decorative plants
Honey, fertilizers, pesticides
Disposable plastic tableware
Medicines (except for essential ones with proper documentation)
Weapons and narcotics
Antique or collectible items

Temporary Importation of Goods from TRNC to Cyprus:

Temporary imports such as foreign-registered cars, exhibition-related materials, professional tools with proper documentation, and sports equipment (excluding weapon-like items such as bows) are allowed.

• More details: documents on crossing the Green Line on the page of the Customs Department of the Republic of Cyprus

Frequently Asked Questions about TRNC and Cyprus Customs Rules:

How many cigarettes can I take from TRNC?

Unlike the Green Line, you can take the EU-standard amount (200 cigarettes) through customs points at Ercan Airport and Northern Cyprus ports. Alternatively, you can bring other tobacco products: 100 cigarillos / 50 cigars / 250 grams of smoking tobacco.

How much alcohol can I take out of TRNC?

Through Ercan Airport or Northern Cyprus ports (Kyrenia and Famagusta), you can bring 1 liter of drinks stronger than 22%, 2 liters of drinks less than 22% or sparkling wine, 2 liters of still wine, 16 liters of beer.

How much money can I take out of Northern Cyprus?

You can take out as much as you bring in — up to €10,000. Any amount beyond that must be declared. You can find more details in our article on this restriction.

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