Cyprus

Scope

Cyprus Customs publishes temporary-import guidance for yachts arriving from non-EU countries, explaining that qualifying yachts may use temporary import with possible relief from customs duties and related taxes. Eligibility depends on the vessel and owner. This page does not assume automatic tax exemption for all vessels or crew. Before arrival, confirm the applicable regime, documents and stay period with Cyprus Customs.

The Cyprus Customs Ports Order 2020 (P.I.164/2020) designates the Republic's ports as customs ports and marinas as customs ports of limited use. Confirm in advance with customs and immigration whether a particular marina can process private-yacht border entry.

Distinguish vessel categories in Cyprus official information. The Shipping Deputy Ministry's pre-arrival notification rules apply to vessels subject to SOLAS/ISPS security requirements; some vessels qualifying for expanded inspection must also notify at least three days ahead. These are not general deadlines for all private pleasure yachts. At Cyprus Ports Authority ports, berth applications require estimated arrival/departure dates, vessel registration, owner identification, insurance and vessel photographs. Private yachts should confirm applicable reporting, berthing and clearance requirements with the destination port before departure.

Cyprus Ministry of Foreign Affairs information states that short-stay visa requirements depend on nationality. Short-stay visas normally cover up to 90 days; check visa exemptions and maritime entry rules according to passport nationality. No private-yacht crew-specific visa list was found.

Cyprus Customs temporary-admission form TEA-1A includes yachts among eligible means of transport. Persons normally resident outside the EU must meet the form's conditions, including personal use. The normal maximum period is 6 months; extensions need justification and application under customs procedures. Confirm eligibility with the local customs station.

Pets and animal health

Pet-entry requirements depend on species, origin and itinerary. Current Cyprus Veterinary Services guidance requires dogs, cats and ferrets to meet electronic identification, rabies vaccination and accompanying-document rules. Arrivals from outside the EU normally also need the prescribed animal health certificate and notification to the entry point's district veterinary office at least 48 hours ahead. Some origins require rabies antibody tests, and pets must be inspected at designated entry points. Pet birds and other animals have separate requirements. Food, plants and ship's stores rules have not been verified in this field; confirm with the competent authorities before departure.

Cyprus Customs imposes permits, certificates or inspection requirements on categories including plants and agricultural products, animals and animal products, firearms and ammunition, fireworks, medicines, CITES species and gas cylinders. This is general import-control advice, not a yacht-specific list. Confirm onboard-goods requirements with customs before departure.

Cyprus Maritime Circular No. 22/2022 requires charter yachts to submit written departure notice to the Marine Police before leaving a marina, berth, fishing harbour or port. When sailing beyond territorial waters, the master must declare goods to customs. This expressly concerns charter yachts and should not be applied directly to privately used yachts.

The Cyprus Ports Authority (CPA) publishes port-specific tariffs to check against destination and applicable dates. For example, Larnaca rates effective October 20, 2025 exempt non-cargo vessels under 45 m LOA from pilotage and tugs. Maritime dues are: for LOA up to 7.5 m, €77.77 per metre or part-metre annually; above 7.5 m and below 45 m, €116.66 per metre annually or €0.53 per metre per day or part-day, with a minimum charge of 5 days. The schedule also lists anchorage, quayside and waste/sewage service charges. Tariffs and services vary by port. These are CPA port/vessel service charges, not nationwide customs or immigration departure rates. Obtain separate operator quotes for marinas outside CPA jurisdiction or commercially managed. Confirm using the intended port's current tariff and written bill before sailing.