Exercise normal precautions when traveling in Cyprus.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Cyprus:
Six months remaining validity recommended
Two pages for entry stamp
Not required for stays under 90 days
None
None
None
Metochiou & Ploutarchou Street
2407, Engomi
Nicosia, Cyprus
Telephone: +(357) 2239-3939
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(357) 2239-3939; wait for the recorded message and press 0
Fax: +(357) 22-266640
See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Cyprus for information on U.S.-Cyprus relations.
Visit the Embassy of Cyprus website for the most current visa information.
Cyprus is a member of the European Union but is not a party to the Schengen Agreement. For information about travel into and within Schengen countries, please see our Schengen fact sheet.
The government of Cyprus controls the southern two-thirds of the island and Turkish Cypriots administer the northern third. Neither the United States, nor any country other than Turkey, recognizes the “Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”. For U.S.-citizen travelers:
For information on traveling across the U.N. buffer zone, contact Ledra Palace checkpoint at tel. 357 22 451 944 in Nicosia.
Some HIV/AIDS entry restrictions exist for visitors to and foreign residents of Cyprus. There are no restrictions for short-term tourist stays and no HIV testing on entry. Authorities will not grant a residence permit for work or study to a U.S. citizen who tests positive for HIV. Please verify this information with the Embassy of Cyprus before you travel.
Find information on dual nationality, prevention of international child abduction, and customs regulations on our websites.
Credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting possibly near-term attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.
Crime: The State Department’s crime rating for Cyprus is medium. Take precautions.
See the Department of State and the FBI pages for information on scams.
Victims of Crime: Report crimes to the local police by dialing 112 and contact the U.S. Embassy by dialing 22-393939. Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crimes.
See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas.
We can:
Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.
For further information:
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Possesion of a U.S. passport will not prevent you from being detained, prosecuted, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some crimes are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our webpage for further information.
Faith-Based Travelers: See our following webpages for details:
Travel in Northern Cyprus: See Entry, Exit, and Visa Requirements above.
LGBTI Travelers: There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Cyprus or in the area administered by the Turkish Cypriots. Despite broad legal protections, LGBTI individuals sometimes face societal discrimination and few are open about their sexual orientation or gender identity. Although public attitudes tend to be socially conservative in Cyprus, the U.S. Embassy has not received reports of violence against LGBTI travelers.
See our LGBTI travel information page and section six of our Human Rights Report for further details.
Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:
Students: See our students abroad page and FBI travel tips.
Women Travelers: See our travel tips for women travelers.
Medical care is available both at government hospitals and private clinics. The standard of medical care in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots generally falls below that found in the government-controlled area. Water on the island is safe to drink.
Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Further health information:
Road Conditions and Safety: While in Cyprus, you may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States, though modern motorways link the major cities.
Traffic Laws:
Public Transportation: There are few public buses and no rail lines in Cyprus. Taxis are widely available.
See our road safety page for more information. Visit the website of Cyprus’ national tourist office and national authority responsible for road safety.
Aviation Safety Oversight: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Cyprus, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Cyprus’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.
Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to Cyprus should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard homeport, and the NGA broadcast warnings website.
DISCLAIMER: THE INFORMATION IS PROVIDED FOR GENERAL INFORMATION ONLY AND MAY NOT BE TOTALLY ACCURATE IN A SPECIFIC CASE. QUESTIONS INVOLVING INTERPRETATION OF SPECIFIC FOREIGN LAWS SHOULD BE ADDRESSED TO THE APPROPRIATE FOREIGN AUTHORITIES OR FOREIGN COUNSEL.
Metochiou & Ploutarchou Street
2407, Engomi
Nicosia, Cyprus
Telephone: +(357) 2239-3939
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(357) 2239-3939; wait for the recorded message and press 0
Fax: +(357) 22-266640
List of Attorneys - U.S. Embassy Nicosia
Cyprus is a party to the Hague Convention on the Service Abroad of Judicial and Extra Judicial Documents in Civil and Commercial Matters. Complete information on the operation of the Convention, including an interactive online request form are available on the Hague Conference website. Requests should be completed in duplicate and submitted with two sets of the documents to be served, and translations, directly to Cyprus’ Central Authority for the Hague Service Convention. The person in the United States executing the request form should be either an attorney or clerk of court. The applicant should include the titles attorney at law or clerk of court on the identity and address of applicant and signature/stamp fields. Cyprus did not formally object to service under Article 10 of the Hague Service Convention and permits service via postal channels. For additional information see the Hague Conference Service Convention web page and the Hague Conference Practical Handbook on the Operation of the Hague Service Convention.
Service on a Foreign State: See also our Service Under the Foreign Sovereign Immunities Act (FSIA) feature and FSIA Checklist for questions about service on a foreign state, agency or instrumentality.
Service of Documents from Cyprus in the United States: See information about service in the United States on the U.S. Central Authority for the Service Convention page of the Hague Conference on Private International Law Service Convention site.
Prosecution Requests: U.S. federal or state prosecutors should also contact the Office of International Affairs, Criminal Division, Department of Justice for guidance.
Defense Requests in Criminal Matters: Criminal defendants or their defense counsel seeking judicial assistance in obtaining evidence or in effecting service of documents abroad in connection with criminal matters may do so via the letters rogatory process.
Cyprus is a party to the Hague Convention on the Taking of Evidence Abroad in Civil and Commercial Matters, The Central Authority for Cyprus for the Hague Evidence Convention designated to receive letters of request for compulsion of evidence is the Ministry of Justice. See the Hague Evidence Convention Model Letters of Request for guidance on preparation of the letter of request. Requests for the taking of evidence under the Hague Evidence Convention are transmitted directly from the requesting court or person in the United States to the Cyprus Central Authority and do not require transmittal via diplomatic channels. Letters of Request and accompanying documents should be prepared in duplicate and translated into Greek. See the Cyprus Declarations and Reservations regarding the Hague Evidence Convention.
Requests from Cyprus to Obtain Evidence in the United States: The U.S. Central Authority for the Hague Evidence Convention is the Office of International Judicial Assistance, Civil Division, Department of Justice, 1100 L Street N.W., Room 8102, Washington, D.C. 20530.
Voluntary depositions in civil and commercial matters may be conducted in Cyprus, provided no compulsion is used if a diplomatic or consular officer has been appointed as a commissioner. This applies to all witnesses, regardless of nationality, after permission is granted by the Ministry of Justice. Oral depositions or depositions on written questions may be taken by U.S. consular officers or by private attorneys from the U.S. or Cyprus at the U.S. Embassy or at another location such as a hotel or office, either on notice or pursuant to a commission. If the services of a U.S. consular officer are required to administer an oath to the witness, interpreter and stenographer, such arrangements must be made in advance with the U.S. embassy directly. Contact the American Citizen Services section of the Consular Section, U.S. Embassy in Nicosia to schedule a deposition of willing witnesses directly on U.S. consular premises, if possible, to arrange the participation of a consular officer to administer oaths off-site.
Cyprus is a party to the Hague Convention Abolishing the Requirement for Legalization of Foreign Public Documents. Cyprus’s competent authority for the Hague Apostille Conventionwill authenticate Cyprus public documents with Apostilles. For information about authenticating U.S. public documents for use in Cyprus, see the list of U.S. Competent Authorities. To obtain an Apostille for a U.S. Consular Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States of America, contact the U.S. Department of State, Passport Services, Vital Records Office.
Metochiou & Ploutarchou Street
2407, Engomi
Nicosia, Cyprus
Telephone: +(357) 2239-3939
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(357) 2239-3939; wait for the recorded message and press 0
Fax: +(357) 22-266640
The Republic of Cyprus and the United States have been treaty partners under the 1980 Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction (Hague Abduction Convention) since March 1, 1995.
For information concerning travel to Cyprus, including information about the location of the U.S. Embassy, the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, entry/exit requirements, safety and security, crime, medical facilities and health information, traffic safety, road conditions, aviation safety and more, please see country-specific information for Cyprus.
For information on children abducted to the area administered by Turkish Cypriots in Northern Cyprus, parents or legal guardians should contact the Department of State.
The U.S. Department of State reports statistics and compliance information for individual countries in the Annual Report on International Parental Child Abduction (IPCA). The report is located here.
The U.S. Department of State serves as the U.S. Central Authority (USCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention. In this capacity, the Department’s Bureau of Consular Affairs, Directorate for Overseas Citizen Services, Office of Children’s Issues facilitates the submission of applications under the Hague Abduction Convention for the return of, or access to, children located in countries that are U.S. treaty partners, including Cyprus. Parents are strongly encouraged to contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the foreign Central Authority.
Contact information:
United States Department of State
Bureau of Consular Affairs
Office of Children’s Issues
CA/OCS/CI
SA-17
Washington, DC 20522-1709
Telephone: 1-888-407-4747
Outside the United States or Canada: 1-202-501-4444
Fax: 202-485-6221
Website
The Cypriot Central Authority (CCA) for the Hague Abduction Convention is the Ministry of Justice and Public Order. The Ministry of Justice and Public Order reviews and forwards applications for return and access to the Office of the Attorney General for proceedings before the district family court where the defendant resides.
The CCA can be reached at:
Ministry of Justice and Public Order
International Legal Cooperation Unit
125 Athalassas Avenue
1461 Nicosia
Cyprus
Telephone: +357 (22) 805 928 / 932
Fax: +357 (22) 518 328 / 356
Email: registry@mjpo.gov.cy
Website
To initiate a Hague case for return of, or access to, a child in Cyprus, the USCA encourages a parent or legal guardian to review the eligibility criteria and instructions for completing the Hague application form located at the Department of State website and contact the Department of State for assistance prior to initiating the Hague process directly with the CCA. It is extremely important that each supporting document written in English be translated into Greek. Please note, however, that certified translations are not necessary. Any competent person or organization may translate the documents. The USCA is available to answer questions about the Hague application process, to forward a completed application to the CCA, and subsequently to monitor its progress through the foreign administrative and legal processes.
There are no fees for filing Hague applications with either the U.S. or Cypriot central authorities. Attorney fees in Cyprus, if necessary, are the responsibility of the applicant parent. Additional costs may include airplane tickets for court appearances and for the return of the child, if so ordered.
A parent or legal guardian may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for return to the United States of a child abducted to, or wrongfully retained in, Cyprus. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand whether the Convention is an available civil remedy and can provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
A person may file an application under the Hague Abduction Convention for access to a child living in Cyprus. The criteria for acceptance of a Hague access application vary from country to country. The U.S. Department of State can assist parents living in the United States to understand Ecuador-specific criteria and provide information on the process for submitting a Hague application.
In a Hague Abduction Convention case sent to Cyprus, it is not necessary for a petitioner to retain a private attorney because all applications are assigned and presented to the court by Lawyers of the Office of the Attorney General of the Republic, on behalf of the CCA.
The CCA will assign a public prosecutor to present the case to the court. However, the public prosecutor does not represent the left-behind parent or legal guardian who submitted the Hague Abduction Convention application. Instead, the prosecutor represents Cyprus and submits the request for return on behalf of the Cypriot Minister of Justice. Applicant parents or legal guardians have the option to hire a private attorney at their own expense in Cyprus to join the public prosecutor in presenting the Hague Abduction Convention case. A privately hired attorney should contact the CCA as soon as possible after the CCA receives the Hague Abduction Convention application.
The U.S. Embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus, provides a list of attorneys for U.S. citizens including those who specialize in family law.
This list is provided as a courtesy service only and does not constitute an endorsement of any individual attorney. The Department of State assumes no responsibility or liability for the professional ability or reputation of, or the quality of services provided by, the following persons or firms. Professional credentials and areas of expertise are provided directly by the lawyers.
The USCA is not aware of any government or private organizations in Cyprus that offer mediation services in either abduction or access cases.
While travelling in a foreign country, you are subject to the laws of that country. It is important for parents to understand that, although a left-behind parent in the United States may have custody or visitation rights pursuant to a U.S. custody order, that order may not be valid and enforceable in the country in which the child is located. For this reason, we strongly encourage you to speak to a local attorney if planning to remove a child from a foreign country without the consent of the other parent. Attempts to remove your child to the United States may:
The U.S. government cannot interfere with another country’s court or law enforcement system.
To understand the legal effect of a U.S. order in a foreign country, a parent should consult with a local attorney in the country in which the child is located.
For information about hiring an attorney abroad, see our section on Retaining a Foreign Attorney.
Although we cannot recommend an attorney to you, most U.S. Embassies have lists of attorneys available online. Please visit the local U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for a full listing.
For more information on consular assistance for U.S. citizens arrested abroad, please see our website.
Country officers are available to speak with you Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. For assistance with an abduction in progress or any emergency situation that occurs after normal business hours, on weekends, or federal holidays, please call toll free at 1-888-407-4747. See all contact information.
DISCLAIMER: The information in this flyer is provided for general information only, is not intended to be legal advice, and may change without notice. Questions involving interpretation of law should be addressed to an attorney licensed in the relevant jurisdiction.
Cyprus is party to the Hague Convention on Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption (Hague Adoption Convention). Intercountry adoption processing in Hague countries is done in accordance with the requirements of the Convention; the U.S. implementing legislation, the Intercountry Adoption Act of 2000 (IAA); and the IAA’s implementing regulations; as well as the implementing legislation and regulations of Cyprus.
There are very few children available for adoption in Cyprus. Cypriot families who wish to adopt have generally looked to other countries for adoption possibilities. The last immigrant visa for a Cypriot orphan was issued in FY 2000.
U.S. citizen prospective adoptive parents interested in adopting children from Cyprus should contact the Central Authority of Cyprus to inquire about applicable laws and procedures. U.S. citizen prospective adoptive parents living in Cyprus who would like to adopt a child from the United States or from a third country should also contact Cyprus’ Central Authority. See contact information below.
Please visit the Department’s Country Specific Information for more information on travelling to Cyprus, and visit U.S. Embassy Nicosia’s website for information on consular services.
The Consular Officer will send a letter (referred to as an “Article 5 Letter”) to Cyprus’ Central Authority in any intercountry adoption involving U.S. citizen parents and a child from Cyprus where all Convention requirements are met and the consular officer determines that the child appears eligible to immigrate to the United States. This letter will inform Cyprus’ Central Authority that the parents are eligible and suited to adopt, that all indications are that the child may enter and reside permanently in the United States, and that the U.S. Central Authority agrees that the adoption may proceed.
WARNING: Do not attempt to adopt or obtain custody of a child in Cyprus before a U.S. consular officer issues the Article 5 Letter in any adoption case.
Remember: The Consular Officer will make a final decision about a child’s eligibility for an immigrant visa later in the adoption process.
Cyprus’ Adoption Authority:
Ministry of Labor, Welfare & Social Insurance (Social Welfare Services)
63 Prodromou Street
1468 Nicosia - Cyprus
Tel: 357-22-406650/406655
Fax: 357-22-667907
E-mail: central.sws@sws.mlsi.gov.cy
website: http//www.mlsi.gov.cy/sws
Select a visa category below to find the visa issuance fee, number of entries, and validity period for visas issued to applicants from this country*/area of authority.
Visa Classification: The type of nonimmigrant visa you are applying for.
Fee: The reciprocity fee, also known as the visa issuance fee, you must pay. This fee is in addition to the nonimmigrant visa application fee (MRV fee).
Number of Entries: The number of times you may seek entry into the United States with that visa. "M" means multiple times. If there is a number, such as "One", you may apply for entry one time with that visa.
Validity Period: This generally means the visa is valid, or can be used, from the date it is issued until the date it expires, for travel with that visa. If your Validity Period is 60 months, your visa will be valid for 60 months from the date it is issued.
| Visa Classification |
Fee | Number of Entries |
Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| A-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| A-3 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| B-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| B-1/B-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| C-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| C-1/D | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| C-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| C-3 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-1 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| CW-2 11 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| D | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| E-1 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2 2 | No Treaty | N/A | N/A |
| E-2C 12 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| F-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| F-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| G-1 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| G-2 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| G-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| G-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| G-5 1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| H-1B | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| H-1C | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| H-2A | None | N/A | N/A3 |
| H-2B | None | N/A | N/A3 |
| H-2R | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| H-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| H-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| I | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| J-1 4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| J-2 4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| K-1 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| K-3 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| K-4 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| L-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| L-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| M-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| M-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| N-8 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| N-9 | None | Multiple | 24 Months |
| NATO 1-7 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| O-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| O-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| O-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| P-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| P-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| P-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| P-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months 3 |
| Q-1 6 | None | Multiple | 12 Months 3 |
| R-1 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| R-2 | None | Multiple | 12 Months |
| S-5 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-6 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| S-7 7 | None | One | 1 Month |
| T-1 9 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| T-2 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-3 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-4 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-5 | None | One | 6 Months |
| T-6 | None | One | 6 Months |
| TD 5 | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| U-1 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-2 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-3 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-4 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| U-5 | None | Multiple | 48 Months |
| V-1 | None | Multiple | 120 Months |
| V-2 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
| V-3 | None | Multiple | 120 Months 8 |
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
The validity of A-3, G-5, and NATO 7 visas may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the person who is employing the applicant. The "employer" would have one of the following visa classifications:
An E-1 and E-2 visa may be issued only to a principal alien who is a national of a country having a treaty, or its equivalent, with the United States. E-1 and E-2 visas may not be issued to a principal alien if he/she is a stateless resident. The spouse and children of an E-1 or E-2 principal alien are accorded derivative E-1 or E-2 status following the reciprocity schedule, including any reciprocity fees, of the principle alien’s country of nationality.
Example: John Doe is a national of the country of Z that has an E-1/E-2 treaty with the U.S. His wife and child are nationals of the country of Y which has no treaty with the U.S. The wife and child would, therefore, be entitled to derivative status and receive the same reciprocity as Mr. Doe, the principal visa holder.
The validity of H-1 through H-3, O-1 and O-2, P-1 through P-3, and Q visas may not exceed the period of validity of the approved petition or the number of months shown, whichever is less.
Under 8 CFR §214.2, H-2A and H-2B petitions may generally only be approved for nationals of countries that the Secretary of Homeland Security has designated as participating countries. The current list of eligible countries is available on USCIS's website for both H-2A and H-2B visas. Nationals of countries not on this list may be the beneficiary of an approved H-2A or H2-B petition in limited circumstances at the discretion of the Department of Homeland Security if specifically named on the petition.
Derivative H-4, L-2, O-3, and P-4 visas, issued to accompanying or following-to-join spouses and children, may not exceed the validity of the visa issued to the principal alien.
There is no reciprocity fee for the issuance of a J visa if the alien is a United States Government grantee or a participant in an exchange program sponsored by the United States Government.
Also, there is no reciprocity fee for visa issuance to an accompanying or following-to-join spouse or child (J-2) of an exchange visitor grantee or participant.
In addition, an applicant is eligible for an exemption from the MRV fee if he or she is participating in a State Department, USAID, or other federally funded educational and cultural exchange program (program serial numbers G-1, G-2, G-3 and G-7).
However, all other applicants with U.S. Government sponsorships, including other J-visa applicants, are subject to the MRV processing fee.
Under the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Canadian and Mexican nationals coming to engage in certain types of professional employment in the United States may be admitted in a special nonimmigrant category known as the "trade NAFTA" or "TN" category. Their dependents (spouse and children) accompanying or following to join them may be admitted in the "trade dependent" or "TD" category whether or not they possess Canadian or Mexican nationality. Except as noted below, the number of entries, fees and validity for non-Canadian or non-Mexican family members of a TN status holder seeking TD visas should be based on the reciprocity schedule of the TN principal alien.
Since Canadian nationals generally are exempt from visa requirement, a Canadian "TN' or "TD" alien does not require a visa to enter the United States. However, the non-Canadian national dependent of a Canadian "TN", unless otherwise exempt from the visa requirement, must obtain a "TD" visa before attempting to enter the United States. The standard reciprocity fee and validity period for all non-Canadian "TD"s is no fee, issued for multiple entries for a period of 36 months, or for the duration of the principal alien's visa and/or authorized period of stay, whichever is less. See 'NOTE' under Canadian reciprocity schedule regarding applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality.
Mexican nationals are not visa-exempt. Therefore, all Mexican "TN"s and both Mexican and non-Mexican national "TD"s accompanying or following to join them who are not otherwise exempt from the visa requirement (e.g., the Canadian spouse of a Mexican national "TN") must obtain nonimmigrant visas.
Applicants of Iranian, Iraqi or Libyan nationality, who have a permanent resident or refugee status in Canada/Mexico, may not be accorded Canadian/Mexican reciprocity, even when applying in Canada/Mexico. The reciprocity fee and period for "TD" applicants from Libya is $10.00 for one entry over a period of 3 months. The Iranian and Iraqi "TD" is no fee with one entry over a period of 3 months.
Q-2 (principal) and Q-3 (dependent) visa categories are in existence as a result of the 'Irish Peace Process Cultural and Training Program Act of 1998'. However, because the Department anticipates that virtually all applicants for this special program will be either Irish or U.K. nationals, the Q-2 and Q-3 categories have been placed only in the reciprocity schedules for those two countries. Q-2 and Q-3 visas are available only at the Embassy in Dublin and the Consulate General in Belfast.
No S visa may be issued without first obtaining the Department's authorization.
V-2 and V-3 status is limited to persons who have not yet attained their 21st birthday. Accordingly, the period of validity of a V-2 or V-3 visa must be limited to expire on or before the applicant's twenty-first birthday.
Posts may not issue a T-1 visa. A T-1 applicant must be physically present in the United States, American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands or a U.S. port of entry, where he/she will apply for an adjustment of status to that of a T-1. The following dependents of a T-1 visa holder, however, may be issued a T visa at a U.S. consular office abroad:
The validity of NATO-5 visas may not exceed the period of validity of the employment contract or 12 months, whichever is less.
The validity of CW-1 and CW-2 visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (12 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The validity of E-2C visas shall not exceed the maximum initial period of admission allowed by DHS (24 months) or the duration of the transition period ending December 31, 2014, whichever is shortest.
The following describes documents issued in and maintained by the Republic of Cyprus. Notes at the end of this section include information about documents relating to the area administered by Turkish Cypriots.
Available: Yes. A birth certificate is mandatory for children born in Cyprus, regardless of the parents' immigration status in Cyprus.
Document Name: Birth Certificate / Πιστοποιητικό Γέννησης / Dogum Sahadetnamesi
Fees: €5 - provided that the birth has been registered within the time period determined by the Law.
In the case of records of births after the expiry of three months from birth, the fee becomes €150, as defined by law, require the following:
* Affidavit in the prescribed form
* Birth registration form filled
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Light blue in Greek, Turkish and English version. Sealed by the District Administration Officer
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: District Administration Officer of the district in which the birth occurred.
Registration Criteria: In order to register a newborn child in the Birth Register, the application form should be completed and signed by the doctor who delivered the child. A copy is kept at the hospital's/clinic's records, another copy is sent to the Competent District Administration Office by the hospital/clinic, and a third copy is given to the child's parents, in order for them to submit it to the District Administration Office.
Procedure for Obtaining: The applicant must request birth certificates from the District Administration Office or the Civil Registry & Migration Department.
Certified Copies Available: Yes, present the original document in any District Administration Office
District Administration Offices in the Republic of Cyprus:
Available: Yes. Applications for the registration of death of a Cypriot citizen who died abroad are submitted to the Registry Office in the local District Administration Office.
Document Name: Death Certificate / Πιστοποιητικό Θανάτου / Olum Sahadetnamesi
Late registrations of deaths: In cases of death records after the expiration of their period of one year as specified by law, require the following:
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Interior (MOI)
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The District Administration Officer of the district in which the death occurred.
Procedure for Obtaining: Copies obtainable from the District Administration Office.
Certified Copies Available: Yes, present the original document in any District Administration Office.
Note: For more information refer to Civil Registry Section
Available: Yes
Fees: €34.17
Document Name: Marriage Certificate / Πιστοποιητικό Γάμου / Evlenme Cüzdani
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Interior
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: The Civil Marriage Certificate. Seal by the Marriage Officer of the municipality.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: The Director of the Municipality
Registration Criteria: Present a certificate of non-impediment of marriage, an ID, and two witnesses.
Procedure for Obtaining:
Please refer to Civil Registry Section to obtain a detailed explanation on the procedure to apply.
Certified Copies Available: Yes
Exceptions: After 2003, marriages celebrated in any religion are legally competent only if they are registered with Cypriot authorities within 45 days from marriage.
Same-Sex Marriage:
Same-sex marriage is not recognized. However, The Civil Union Law of 2015 (184(I)/2015), recognizing the partnership of two individuals, has entered into force and is practiced in Cyprus as of 09 December 2015.
For more information refer to Civil Registry Section
Available: Yes
Fees: Varies
Document Name: Divorce Certificate / Πιστοποιητικό Διαζυγίου / Bosanma Belgesi
Issuing Government Authority: Supreme Court of Cyprus
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Seal by the Court's Judge
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Family or District Court Judge
Registration Criteria:
Procedure for Obtaining: A divorce decree copy is obtainable from the Family or District Court, which terminated the marriage.
Certified Copies Available: Yes
Available: Yes
Document Name: Adoption Decree / Διάταγμα Υιοθεσία / Evlat Edinme Karari
Registration Criteria: Apply at the Social Welfare Services with ID. The Cypriot Court will issue the adoption decree at the finalization of the adoption.
Procedure for Obtaining: Contact Ministry of Justice and Public Order to apply for a certified copy:
Ministry of Justice and Public Order
125 Athalassas Avenue
Strovolos
1461 Nicosia, Cyprus
Telephone: +357 (22) 805 928
Email: registry@mjpo.gov.cy
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White paper signed by the Court Office. Ink seal by the Family Court of the District in which the adoption is concluded. Prior versions bore an impression seal.
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Social Welfare Services Director
Note: For more information regarding adoptions visit:
Ministry of Labor and Social Insurance and Travel.State.gov
Document Name: Cyprus National ID Cards / Δελτίο Ταυτότητας / Kibris Ulusal Kimlik Kartlari
Fees:
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Interior (Civil Registry and Migration Department)
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: No seal, color light blue and grey with micro-chip.
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Director of Civil Registry and Migration Department
Registration Criteria: Fill out the Application Form and submit an original birth certificate and one recent photo to the District Administration Office to apply for persons born and present in Cyprus.
Comments: To replace a lost identity card, present with a police certificate explaining the loss of theft ID card and follow the procedure with the District Administration Office or the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Document Name: Certificate of Clear Criminal Record /Πιστοποιητικό Λευκού Ποινικού Εγγραφή / Adli Sicil Belgesi
Fees: €20
Issuing Government Authority: Police Headquarters in Cyprus/ Criminal Records Office
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Chief of Police of the Republic of Cyprus
Registration Criteria: Apply in person or by mail. Each request must include an official receipt for payment and:
Procedure for Obtaining:
Requester will apply in person at the Cyprus Police Headquarters, Criminal Records Office (CRO), Athalassa, Nicosia, or at any major police station.
Document Name: Court Records /Δικαστήριο Εγγραφές / Mahkeme Kaydi
Registration Criteria: Apply in the Registry of the Court of the District Court Offices.
Procedure for Obtaining: Copies are available upon request in the Court Registry or Criminal Registry depending on the case.
Fees: €1 per page
Issuing Government Authority: Supreme Court of Cyprus
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Director of the District Court
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Criminal records are computerized.
Document Name: Certificate of Clear Criminal Record / Πιστοποιητικό Λευκού Ποινικού Εγγραφή / /////////////////////////
Registration Criteria: Apply in person or by mail. Each request must include an official receipt for payment and:
Procedure for Obtaining:
Requester will apply in person at the Cyprus Police Headquarters, Criminal Records Office (CRO), Athalassa, Nicosia, or at any major police station.
Fees: €20
Issuing Government Authority: Police Headquarters in Cyprus/ Criminal Records Office
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Chief of Police of the Republic of Cyprus
Document Name: Military record (Certificate of Military Service) / Στρατιωτική θητεία / Askeri Kayit
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: White paper. Seal by Director of Ministry of Defense.
Registration Criteria: Applicant gives date of birth or ID number, so the office can verify records and issue a certificate of military service.
Procedure for Obtaining: Same process as registration criteria.
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Defense
Address: 5 Emmanuel Roides Ave., Nicosia, Cyprus
Phone number: +357 22 807542/3
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Commander of the Recruiting Center (Nicosia Enlistment Office) or
The Chief of National Guard General Staff
Address: 5 Zaimi, Strovolos, Nicosia, Cyprus
Phone number: +357 22 515238, +357 22 417130, +357 22 417131
Comments: For exemptions, exit permits and deferments contact the Ministry of Defense.
For information about military recruitment please visit: http://www.army.gov.cy/el/page/home
Document Name: Passport / Διαβατήριο / Pasaport
Issuing Government Authority: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus
Issuing Authority Personnel Title: Ministry of Interior
Special Seal(s) / Color / Format: Cypriot Passport is Maroon. Seal by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus.
Registration Criteria: Passport applications must be submitted by the applicant in person, at the Civil Registry and Migration Department with the following documents:
Fees:
Temporary Passport - €20
Passports without biometric data - €50
Biometric passports - €70
Passport for a limited period (for minors) - €45
Diplomatic Passport - €70
Service Passport - €70
Passport to political refugees - €90
Passports with biometric data (fast version) - €120
To replace a lost passport: Submit the following to the Civil Registry and Migration Department:
Confirmation of the police or consular authority that filed a statement of the claimant for lost passport.
An affidavit for the circumstances of loss of passport.
Records originating from the area of Cyprus under Turkish-Cypriot administration
Since July 1974, civil records for the Districts of Kyrenia and Famagusta have been under Turkish-Cypriot administration. The Republic of Cyprus cannot issue birth, death, civil marriage or divorce certificates for these districts unless a new registration is made in the Republic of Cyprus. Republic of Cyprus police certificates are also not available for periods of residence in the Turkish-Cypriot-administered area.
Posts should contact the United States Embassy in Nicosia for assistance in individual cases involving an applicant who has lived in the Turkish-Cypriot-administered areas of Cyprus.
Administrative offices in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots:
Birth Certificates: Contact Administrative District Offices in Nicosia, Kyrenia and Famagusta.
Divorce Certificates: Contact the family courts in Nicosia, Kyrenia, Famagusta, Güzelyurt and Lefke.
Family courts in the area administered by Turkish Cypriots:
Death Certificates: Contact Administrative District Offices in Nicosia, Kyrenia and Famagusta.
Police/Prison Records: Contact the Police Headquarters in Nicosia at
Tel: +90 392 228 34 11
Court Records: Contact the court registrar at Tel: +90 392 228 51 85
Military Records: Contact the Nicosia ASAL SUBE at Tel: +90 392 227 20 07
E-mail: asal@guvkk.net
Passports: The "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" is not considered a "competent authority" that can issue a document deemed valid for passport purposes
Nicosia, Cyprus (Embassy)
Address:
Embassy of the United States of America
Metochiou & Ploutarchou Streets,
Engomi, 2407 Nicosia, Cyprus.
In addition to the Embassy in Nicosia, the Mission maintains an office in north Nicosia.
Phone Number: +357 22 39 39 39
Visa Services: Embassy Nicosia provides non-immigrant and immigrant visa services.
Washington, DC (202) 462-0623 (202) 462-5772 (202) 462-0873 (202) 483-5091 (202) 483-6710
New York, NY (212) 686-6016/6017 ext. 41 or 43 (212) 686-3660
Although care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, completeness and reliability of the information provided, please contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you plan to apply if you believe this information is in error or if you have further questions.
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