Cyprus Proposes Fines for Passengers Using Illegal Taxis

A new bill submitted to the Cypriot Parliament proposes a €500 fine for individuals who use unlicensed taxi services.

The proposal, introduced by DIPA MP Marinos Mousiouttas, includes provisions for out-of-court settlements: €300 for the driver and €100 for the passenger. If passed, the legislation would make it a criminal offense for passengers to knowingly hire an unlicensed taxi.

The bill amends the Road Traffic and Transport Regulation Law to penalize anyone transported for payment in a private vehicle that does not hold a license to operate as a taxi.

Supporters of the legislation say it is a necessary step to ensure passenger safety and to combat the growing problem of illegal taxi services.