Cyprus customs rules & duty-free allowances

Last reviewed July 2, 2026·Official source

Cyprus is an EU member but applies its own duty-free limits for non-EU arrivals. The biggest trap: you must be 18+ for any alcohol or tobacco, and the cash declaration threshold is €10,000 (about $11,000). For EU arrivals, different rules apply—this page is for non-resident adults arriving from outside the EU. In 2026, the rules remain unchanged from previous years.

Duty-free allowances

Alcohol
1.0 L
1 litre of spirits over 22% ABV, OR 2 litres of wine/beer (under 22% ABV). Must be 18+. Total value must not exceed €430 (approx. $470).
Tobacco
200 cigarettes
or 50 cigars / 250 g
Cash to declare
$11,000
€10,000 (approx. $11,000) or equivalent in any currency. Declare using the EU Cash Declaration Form at customs upon arrival. Applies to cash, cheques, money orders, and bearer-negotiable instruments.
Goods duty-free
$470
Duty-free allowance for personal goods and gifts: €430 (approx. $470) per adult. Above this, duty is charged at the standard rate (typically 19% VAT plus customs duty).

Prohibited — banned from import

  • Narcotics and psychotropic substances (including cannabis, even for medical use without prior authorization)
  • Counterfeit goods and pirated items
  • Weapons, explosives, and ammunition (including pepper spray and stun guns)
  • Endangered species products (CITES items like ivory, tortoiseshell, certain furs)
  • Pornographic material (especially involving minors)
  • Certain meats and dairy from non-EU countries (unless certified)

Restricted — allowed with a permit or declaration

  • Medications containing controlled substances (require prescription and prior authorization from the Ministry of Health)
  • Plants, seeds, and soil (require phytosanitary certificate)
  • Pets (dogs, cats, ferrets) require EU pet passport, rabies vaccination, and microchip
  • Drones (must be registered and comply with Cypriot aviation regulations; may require permit for flights near airports or populated areas)
  • Satellite phones and radio transmitters (require a license from the Cyprus Telecommunications Authority)

Arriving: red vs green channel

After collecting your luggage, proceed to the customs area. If you have nothing to declare or your goods are within the duty-free limits, use the Green Channel (nothing to declare). If you have goods exceeding the allowances or prohibited/restricted items, use the Red Channel (goods to declare). There is no separate arrival card for customs; declaration is done verbally or via the channel choice.

Tax-free shopping & VAT refunds

Tourists can claim a refund of VAT (19%) on purchases over €50 (approx. $55) from a single store on the same day. Use the 'Tax Free' scheme (Global Blue or similar). Get the form stamped by customs at Larnaca or Paphos airport before check-in. Refund is processed at the airport or via mail.

Bringing medication

Personal medications for up to 3 months' supply are allowed without a prescription. For controlled substances (e.g., strong painkillers, ADHD meds), carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining the condition. Some common Western medications (e.g., codeine-based painkillers) are controlled and may require a permit. Always carry original packaging.

Food, plants & animal products

Meat, dairy, and products containing them from non-EU countries are banned unless accompanied by a veterinary certificate. Fruits, vegetables, seeds, and plants must be declared and may require a phytosanitary certificate. Honey and certain processed foods (e.g., canned goods) are allowed in small quantities for personal use.

Rules worth knowing

EU vs Non-EU rules

If you arrive from an EU country, the duty-free limits are much higher (e.g., 800 cigarettes, 10L spirits) and goods are generally free of duty. This page applies only to arrivals from outside the EU.

Age restrictions

You must be 18 or older to bring alcohol or tobacco into Cyprus. Customs officers may ask for ID.

Cash declaration is mandatory

If you carry €10,000 or more (or equivalent in any currency), you must declare it. Failure to do so can result in seizure and fines up to €1,000.

No duty-free on flights from EU

If you are arriving from an EU country, you cannot use duty-free allowances for alcohol or tobacco purchased at EU airports — they are considered already within the EU single market.

Frequently asked questions

Since the UK left the EU, you are treated as a non-EU traveller. The allowances above (200 cigarettes, 1L spirits, €430 goods) apply. You can also bring in goods worth up to €430 duty-free.
Yes, for up to 3 months' supply. Carry a doctor's prescription and a letter explaining your condition. For controlled drugs (e.g., morphine, Ritalin), you need prior authorization from the Cyprus Ministry of Health — apply at least 2 weeks before travel.
You must declare the excess in the Red Channel. You will pay duty and VAT on the overage. The duty rate depends on the type and alcohol content — typically around €10 per litre of spirits.
There is no limit, but any amount of €10,000 or more (or equivalent) must be declared. If you fail to declare, the cash can be seized and you may face a fine.
From non-EU countries, meat and dairy products are generally banned unless certified. Chocolate and other processed foods are allowed in small quantities for personal use. Fruits and vegetables must be declared and may be inspected.
Yes. Drones must be registered with the Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation. You may also need a permit to fly in certain areas (e.g., near airports, archaeological sites). Bring proof of registration and insurance.
Penalties include confiscation of the items, fines up to €1,000, and in serious cases (e.g., drugs, weapons) criminal prosecution leading to imprisonment.

Official source

Cyprus Customs and Excise Department

For guidance only. Customs allowances and prohibited-item lists change without notice — always confirm with Cyprus Customs and Excise Department before travelling.