Visa-free entry to the US for Cypriot citizens postponed

The process of including the Republic of Cyprus in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has been officially postponed. Although Nicosia has met most technical and legal requirements, the United States has not yet made a final decision.

Cyprus has ratified all necessary agreements, including the Passenger Name Record (PNR) data-sharing agreement and the mutual security cooperation agreement. A system for pre-screening traveler data at the border has also been implemented on the island. However, the decision to include Cyprus in the program was not made before the end of the US fiscal year—September 30, 2025.

Thus, Cypriot citizens still need to obtain B-category visas for short-term trips to the US, including tourism and business visits.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus expressed hope that the issue will be reconsidered in the coming months and that a positive decision will be made within the framework of the new political cycle in Washington. Authorities note that work to meet the remaining requirements continues and that negotiations between the two countries remain on a "positive track."