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The question “Is Cyprus in Schengen?” has been trending for years, and in 2025, the debate has grown louder than ever. As one of the European Union’s most popular tourist destinations, Cyprus remains outside the Schengen Area, creating confusion for travelers. But change may be on the horizon.
This year, Cypriot officials have intensified their efforts to complete the final steps required for accession, with hopes of becoming a full Schengen member in 2026. Yet challenges remain, especially surrounding border controls and political complexities.
In this article, we bring you the latest Cyprus Schengen news, explain the timeline, explore the benefits and challenges of accession, and analyze what it means for travelers, expats, and investors.
European Commission – Schengen Area
The Schengen Area is the world’s largest free travel zone, covering most EU countries plus a few non-EU states like Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Citizens and visa holders can move freely across internal borders without passport checks.
For tourists and businesses, Schengen means:
One visa for 29 countries (as of 2025)
No border checks between member states
Streamlined travel and trade within Europe
Cyprus, despite being an EU member since 2004, is not yet part of Schengen. This makes it one of the few EU states still outside the zone, alongside Ireland.
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The short answer: No. Cyprus is not in Schengen as of September 2025.
Travelers still need a separate Cyprus visa (unless they are EU citizens or from visa-free countries). A Schengen visa is not automatically valid for Cyprus entry, and vice versa.
However, Cyprus has already made significant progress:
In July 2023, Cyprus joined the Schengen Information System (SIS II), a critical step toward integration.
In 2024–2025, the government has aligned more policies with the Schengen acquis (EU rules).
President Nikos Christodoulides has set 2026 as the target year for full Schengen membership.
Cyprus joins the European Union but opts out of Schengen due to unresolved border and political issues.
Initial steps toward Schengen readiness are taken but progress slows due to the financial crisis.
Cyprus resumes talks with the EU about accession, highlighting the importance for tourism recovery.
Cyprus officially joins the Schengen Information System, allowing for information sharing on visas, borders, and security.
Technical upgrades in border management and migration policy continue.
Government officials confirm 2026 as the target date for Schengen entry, pending final approval from the EU Council.
Boost Tourism – More than 4 million tourists visit Cyprus annually. Schengen membership would make travel easier for Europeans and non-EU visitors.
Trade & Investment – Businesses and investors prefer seamless travel between EU states.
Security – Integration into Schengen systems strengthens border and crime control.
Political Influence – Full membership strengthens Cyprus’s standing within the EU.
Despite progress, Cyprus faces unique obstacles:
The Green Line Issue
The island is divided between the Republic of Cyprus (EU-recognized) and the northern part (recognized only by Turkey). The UN-controlled Green Line creates complications for border policy under Schengen rules.
Migration Pressures
Cyprus has one of the highest asylum application rates per capita in the EU, raising concerns about Schengen border management.
Golden Visa Controversies
Cyprus’s investment programs have faced EU criticism, with concerns that wealthy investors could gain “backdoor” access to Schengen once Cyprus joins.
Political Approval Needed
Even if Cyprus is technically ready, all current Schengen members must approve accession.
A Schengen visa does not allow entry to Cyprus.
A Cyprus visa does not allow entry to Schengen countries.
Travelers must apply separately if they want to visit both.
One Schengen visa would cover Cyprus and 29+ other countries.
EU citizens would travel freely without border checks.
Indian, Chinese, Russian, and other non-EU tourists could visit Cyprus using their Schengen visa, making it more attractive for multi-country trips.
Cyprus’s residency-by-investment schemes remain under EU scrutiny. Some Members of Parliament warn that if Cyprus joins Schengen without stricter controls, investors could gain free movement across Europe too easily.
In 2025, parliamentary debates are ongoing about:
Tightening eligibility for residency permits
Enhancing due diligence for applicants
Aligning with EU anti-money laundering rules
If Cyprus joins in 2026, the benefits will be significant:
Tourism Growth – Easier entry for Schengen visa holders
Economic Boost – More trade and investment flows
Improved Security – Stronger collaboration on law enforcement
Stronger EU Ties – Deeper integration with European partners
President Nikos Christodoulides (June 2025):
“Cyprus is determined to meet all technical requirements by the end of 2025. We expect that by 2026, our citizens and visitors will enjoy the benefits of Schengen membership.”
EU Officials:
The European Commission has welcomed Cyprus’s progress but emphasized the need for “careful handling of the Green Line issue” before final approval.
The outlook is cautiously optimistic:
Technical readiness – Nearly complete
Political support – Growing but not unanimous
Challenges – Green Line, migration, golden visa schemes
Most analysts believe that 2026 is possible, but not guaranteed. A final decision will depend on EU member states’ approval in 2025–2026.
If Cyprus joins Schengen in 2026:
Tourists – A single visa for Europe + Cyprus
Expats – Easier travel for work, study, and family visits
Airlines & Cruise Lines – More seamless travel packages across Europe
Investors – Residency programs may be reformed but could still offer pathways to Schengen mobility
1. Is Cyprus in Schengen right now (2025)?
No, Cyprus is not part of the Schengen Area yet.
2. When will Cyprus join Schengen?
Cyprus aims to join in 2026, pending EU approval.
3. Can I enter Cyprus with a Schengen visa?
Not at the moment. Travelers need a separate Cyprus visa.
4. Will my Cyprus visa work in Schengen countries?
No, it only allows entry into Cyprus.
5. Why has Cyprus not joined Schengen yet?
Due to the divided island (Green Line), migration issues, and pending political approval.
6. How will Schengen membership benefit tourists?
One visa will cover Cyprus and 29+ countries, making travel easier.
The journey toward Cyprus joining Schengen is reaching a critical stage. While the island nation is not yet a member in 2025, government officials and EU institutions are working intensively to resolve final challenges.
If successful, Cyprus could finally enter the Schengen Zone in 2026, transforming travel, tourism, and investment opportunities.
For now, travelers must still plan carefully and apply for separate visas — but the future of Cyprus Schengen membership looks brighter than ever.
September 20, 2025
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