Crossing to the Greek Cypriot side

Cyprus history and its cultural richness attracts many visitors every year. However, the divided nature of the island offers visitors the opportunity to explore both the Turkish and Greek parts of the island. In Cyprus, crossing to the Greek side, i.e. the south, is an important issue, especially for those who want to live and work in this part of the island. In this article, we will provide comprehensive information on how to cross to the Greek side, the necessary documents, crossing points and things to consider. By taking a closer look at the different experiences and opportunities in this part of the island, we will help you get the best experience on both sides of your trip to Cyprus.

Crossing Points and Required Documents

If you are planning to cross from Northern Cyprus to Cyprus, there are some documents you need to prepare and important information you need to know. The documents you need to prepare during the transition process and the crossing points consist of the following.

Required Documents

1. Passport

• The Republic of Cyprus (Republic of Cyprus) requires a visa for Turkish citizens.
• Passports of any country other than the Republic of Turkey can be used.

2nd Visa

• As there is no diplomatic mission of Southern Cyprus in Turkey, visas must be obtained from the Greek Cypriot Embassy in Athens.

3. Transition Certificate

• TRNC identity card or passports of EU Member States can be used.

Accessible Border Crossings

• Metehan Border Crossing (Nicosia)

Motorized vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians can cross. This border crossing is frequently used by those who want to cross to the Greek side with their vehicles.

• Ledra Palace Border Crossing (Nicosia)

Named after the famous Ledra Palace Hotel. Only pedestrians and vehicles with diplomatic license plates can cross. It is located in the middle of the bazaar of both areas and is used for diplomatic contacts.

• Lokmacı Border Crossing (Nicosia)

Only pedestrians can cross. It separates the bazaars of North and South Nicosia.

• Beyarmudu Border Crossing (Beyarmudu)

Both motorized vehicles and pedestrians can pass. It passes through the sovereign British bases.

• Bostanci Border Crossing (Guzelyurt)

Motorized vehicles and pedestrians can cross. It is located west of Nicosia.

• Yesilirmak Border Gate (Yesilirmak village)

Motor vehicles and pedestrians can cross. It is located in the village of Yesilirmak, west of Nicosia.

• Akyar Border Crossing (Famagusta)

It is the only crossing gate in Famagusta. Motorized vehicles and pedestrians can pass through.

Customs and Security Controls

Beyond the impressive landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the crossing of Cyprus into Cyprus is also characterized by rigorous customs and security checks. These checks, which are carried out to ensure security and order, include important points that visitors should pay attention to. First of all, customs checks include restricted and prohibited items such as drugs, weapons and certain food products, as well as additional taxes and fees for products such as alcohol and tobacco if certain limits are exceeded.

In security checks, identity and passport checks, accuracy of personal information and pass permits must be meticulously examined. Moreover, when crossing by vehicle, it is important to check vehicle documents and insurance status and to ensure that they comply with technical standards. At border crossings in Nicosia, such as Metehan, Ledra Palace and Lokmacı, a detailed inspection is carried out using modern security screening devices and x-ray machines. Stricter controls are implemented in security risk areas to prevent illegal activities and terrorist threats. Paying attention to these customs and security procedures is essential to ensure a smooth crossing into Cyprus.

Places to visit in the Greek part of Cyprus

Southern Cyprus is a region of unique beauty, where history and nature are in perfect harmony. Limassol is notable for both its historic and modern elements; Limassol Castle in the center of the city reflects the splendor of the past, while Limassol Marina shines as an icon of contemporary luxury. Larnaca is famous for its sunny beaches and the Hala Sultan Tekke, offering spiritual tranquillity, where you can soak up the sun and explore the city's cultural depths. Famagusta offers the opportunity to embark on a historical journey with the ancient city of Salamis and the impressive Famagusta Castle.

For nature lovers, the Troodos Mountains are a place of discovery, full of spectacular hikes and peaceful monasteries. This region is an ideal getaway with breathtaking views and the serenity of nature. Ayia Napa and Nissi Beach, with its clean sands and crystal clear waters, is a favorite for vacationers, where you can enjoy the sea and sun for an unforgettable beach experience.

Nicosia, which stands out with its cultural heritage, offers traces of the past with important buildings such as the historical Nicosia Walls and the Great Inn. You can get to know the local culture and traditions more closely by strolling the streets of the city. Pafos offers the opportunity to step into history with its archaeological sites and ancient mosaics on the UNESCO World Heritage List; this region full of unique ruins is a paradise for history buffs.

Things to Consider When Crossing to the Greek Cypriot Side

In order to cross from Northern Cyprus to Greek Cyprus, you must first have the necessary documents. Citizens of the Republic of Turkey need a valid passport and a visa to cross. Visa applications should be made to the Greek Cypriot Embassy in Athens as there is no Greek Cypriot Embassy in Turkey. Also, citizens of EU member states can cross with their passports, while TRNC-born citizens can cross the border with their TRNC identity cards.

When crossing into Cyprus, you should take some important steps to ensure your safety. Since Turkey does not have a diplomatic mission in Cyprus, it may be difficult to get help in case of an emergency. For this reason, it is important to register your trip using the "Overseas Travel Registration" service from the Ministry's "e-consulate" system prior to your trip. Moreover, since there is no roaming agreement between GSM operators in Turkey and operators in Cyprus, you should keep in mind that cell phones with SIM cards in Turkey will not work in Cyprus. If you are planning to cross by car, you should pay attention to some rules. The vehicles that will cross to the Greek Cyprus must have civilian license plates. Also, it is mandatory to have insurance for your vehicle during the crossing. You are also required to obtain a navigation permit from the Greek authorities on official working days. These procedures are necessary both to ensure the safety of the vehicle owners and to guarantee that they travel in accordance with the rules.

There are seven border crossings from North Cyprus to South Cyprus. The most heavily used of these gates is Metehan Border Crossing and can be used by motorized vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians. Ledra Palace and Lokmacı gates are only open for pedestrians. Beyarmudu, Bostanci, Yesilirmak and Akyar crossings are open to both motorized vehicles and pedestrians. It is important to plan which crossing you will use, knowing that each border crossing has different rules and usage patterns. It is important to pay attention to local sensitivities when crossing into Southern Cyprus. In particular, you should keep in mind that carrying symbols of Turkey (flags, money, etc.) may cause reactions. Moreover, since it is not allowed to cross to the Greek Cypriot side with rental cars in Cyprus, you should make your car rental plans in line with this information. The controls carried out by both Turkish and Greek police and customs officers at the border gates are carried out to ensure the security of both sides. By paying attention to these issues, you can make your crossing from Northern Cyprus to Southern Cyprus more safely and smoothly.

The History and Political Situation of the Greek Cypriot Transition in Cyprus

Throughout history, Cyprus has attracted the attention of many civilizations with its strategic location and has been shaped by cultural influences. The process that began with the settlement of the Mycenaean civilization on the island in 1400 BC laid the foundations of Cyprus' cultural heritage. The Greek migration deeply affected the cultural structure of the island in 1200 BC, and Mycenaean pottery and Greek literary traditions were brought to the island. During the Byzantine period, the Greek Cypriot population identified with the Greek-Christian culture and Christianity merged with Byzantine influence. However, with the takeover of Isaacos Komnenos in 1184 and during the Lusignan period, the island experienced social and economic change, and the estates of Greek landlords were transferred to the Latin aristocracy.

In the modern era, the 1974 military coup and the Turkish intervention created a clear division between the north and the south of Cyprus. Border crossings between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) and the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus (GASC) take place through specific gates and require various bureaucratic procedures. The gates in Nicosia, such as Metehan, Ledra Palace and Lokmacı, are among the main points used for crossing into the Greek Cypriot Administration of Southern Cyprus.