Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus is a member of the European Union but remains outside the Schengen Area, a status that continues to influence political, legal and practical discussions on the island. The long-running debate is closely tied to Cyprus’ division and the conditions required for Schengen membership.
What the Schengen Area is
The Schengen Area is a group of European countries that have abolished routine passport and border controls between one another. Travellers can move within the zone without undergoing immigration checks at internal borders.
Most EU countries participate in Schengen, but membership is not automatic. Some non-EU countries, including Switzerland and Norway, are members, while a small number of EU member states remain outside the zone.
Cyprus’ current status
Cyprus is not part of the Schengen zone. As a result, travellers flying from Cyprus to most European destinations still pass through passport control, even when travelling within the EU.
Cyprus’ non-participation is largely linked to the unresolved political situation on the island and the existence of the Green Line separating government-controlled areas from the north. Cyprus does not exercise full control over its entire territory, and Schengen membership would require a clearly defined external border of the Schengen zone, which remains a sensitive issue given the island’s division.
Requirements and obstacles
Schengen membership includes security, migration and administrative requirements. These include data-sharing systems, border surveillance standards and asylum procedures that Cyprus would need to fully implement.
Government position and potential impact
The Cypriot government has repeatedly stated its intention to pursue Schengen membership. President Nikos Christodoulides has set a target for Cyprus to meet the technical and legal criteria required to join.
The prospects for membership depend on factors including political developments, migration pressures and Cyprus’ ability to align with Schengen security frameworks. If Cyprus were to join, routine passport controls for travel to other Schengen countries would be lifted, easing travel for residents and visitors and aligning Cyprus more closely with most EU member states.
What impact would lifting routine passport controls have on your travel to and from Cyprus?