After years of preparation, Cyprus is now on track to join the Schengen Area by 2026. President Nikos Christodoulides confirmed that all technical requirements will be fulfilled by the end of the year, paving the way for full integration into the EU’s border-free travel zone.
But what exactly will change for residents, travellers, investors, and the real estate market? Here’s everything you need to know about Cyprus’ upcoming Schengen membership.
What Is the Schengen Area? The Schengen Zone is a border-free travel area across 29 European countries. Citizens and residents of these states can travel freely between member states without passport checks or internal border controls.
The area includes most EU countries, plus four non-EU states (Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein). It also enables cross-border police cooperation and a shared Schengen Information System (SIS) to strengthen internal security.
Is Cyprus Already in the Schengen Area? No. As of mid-2025, Cyprus and Ireland are the only two EU member states not yet in the Schengen Zone.
Here’s what that means today:
Cyprus issues national visas, not Schengen visas. A Cyprus visa does not grant access to other Schengen countries. Border checks still apply for travellers flying in from Europe. That is expected to change once Schengen accession is complete in 2026.
Timeline and Progress Cyprus began its Schengen integration process in 2019 and has since made steady progress, including joining the Schengen Information System in 2023, prioritising Schengen accession as a national policy goal, and completing nearly all technical prerequisites by early 2025. Final political approval from the existing Schengen members is expected in 2026.
What Changes When Cyprus Joins? 1. No More Border Checks Within Schengen Travellers from Cyprus to other Schengen states will no longer face passport or ID checks. Air and sea travel will be streamlined, making trips to Europe faster and more efficient. 2. Schengen Visa Compatibility Cyprus will issue Schengen visas, allowing access to all 29 member countries. If you're planning to move to Cyprus or apply for residency, learn more about our Cyprus Immigration Services Foreign nationals holding Cyprus permanent residency will be able to travel freely within the Zone. 3. Boost in Tourism Easier travel is expected to increase tourist arrivals beyond the 4 million recorded in 2024. Like Switzerland post-accession, Cyprus could experience a significant jump in short-stay visits and tourism revenue. 4. Real Estate Demand and Property Prices Schengen access will make Cyprus permanent residency more attractive for global investors. Increased foreign interest is expected to raise real estate prices, particularly in Limassol and Paphos. If you're considering buying property, our Guide to Buying Property in Cyprus Developers anticipate higher demand for high-end property tied to residency programs. 5. Enhanced Mobility for Locals Cypriots will enjoy the same passport-free travel rights as other EU citizens within the Schengen Zone. This includes easier access to education, work, and business opportunities across Europe. Will You Be Able to Enter Cyprus With a Schengen Visa? Yes, once Cyprus becomes a full Schengen member, holders of a valid Schengen visa will be able to enter Cyprus freely, as they would any other Schengen country.
Likewise, a Cyprus-issued visa or residency will allow travel to the rest of the Schengen Zone.
Final Thoughts Cyprus’ accession to the Schengen Area marks a major milestone in its European integration. For citizens, investors, and travellers, it brings tangible benefits: easier movement, stronger border infrastructure, and greater confidence in Cyprus as a gateway to the EU.
While 2026 is the target date, the groundwork is already being laid. By fulfilling all technical and legal obligations in 2025, Cyprus is poised to become the 30th member of the Schengen Zone.
For anyone considering immigration, investment, or cross-border business in Cyprus, now is the time to start planning for a more integrated European future.
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