What cannot be brought from the TRNC to Cyprus across the Green Line?

The border between Northern Cyprus and the southern part of the island is open, and movement is free. However, not all products purchased in the north can be brought to the south.

• History of the issue
• Permitted goods
• Prohibited goods
• Temporary imports
• Frequently asked questions

History of the issue

Since 2004, residents of the two states on the island have been able to cross the so-called Green Line — a buffer zone between the TRNC and the Republic of Cyprus. Tourists can also cross it now. Accordingly, trade between the two political entities exists and grows year by year.

The most recent legislative act regulating trade between the North and South dates back to June 2023, largely reiterating the rules set when the border opened in 2004. We are publishing these rules, taking into account periodic amendments to the document.

Goods permitted for import to Cyprus from the TRNC

The following goods can be brought in, calculated per person, with alcohol and tobacco allowed only if the individual is 17 years or older.

• Cigarettes: 2 packs or 40 pieces (other types of tobacco are prohibited)
• Alcohol: 1 liter (any strength)
• Agricultural products: 3 kilograms
• Processed plant-based products (juices, olive oil and olives, jams, etc.): a reasonable amount for personal consumption

Other products for personal use, not included in the list of prohibited items, are calculated based on the value of goods up to 260 euros per person.

Goods prohibited for import to Cyprus from the TRNC

• Tobacco products (any, except 40 cigarettes) and heated tobacco systems
• Fuel (except what's in the tank)
• Replicas of well-known brands
• Meat, seafood, dairy products
• Firewood from pine and chestnut trees
• Citrus fruits — both the fruit and the trees
• Grapes — both the fruit and the vine
• Other fruit trees and ornamental plants
• Honey, fertilizers, pesticides
• Disposable plastic tableware
• Medicines except those essential for life with the proper documentation
• Weapons and drugs
• Antiques and collectible items

Temporary import of goods from the TRNC to Cyprus

Cars registered in foreign jurisdictions, goods for exhibitions, items for professional activities with proper documentation, sports equipment except those resembling weapons (including bows).

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

Frequently asked questions about Cyprus customs rules

How many cigarettes can be brought into Cyprus?

Unlike the Green Line, through the customs points at Larnaca and Paphos airports, as well as through seaports, you can bring the standard amount — 200 cigarettes. You can also bring other tobacco products instead of cigarettes: 100 cigarillos / 50 cigars / 250 grams of smoking tobacco.

How much alcohol can be brought into Cyprus?

There are also differences for alcohol — through Cyprus airports or seaports, you can bring in 1 liter of beverages with an alcohol content of more than 22%, 2 liters of beverages with less than 22% alcohol or sparkling wine, 2 liters of still wine, and 16 liters of beer.

How many cigarettes can be taken out of Cyprus?

The same amount as you can bring in — both across the Green Line and by air or sea. However, many people, considering the price difference for cigarettes between the North and South, ignore these rules and get caught as smugglers. Here’s our material on this phenomenon.

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