Traveling to the United States could soon become much easier for Cypriots, as Cyprus nears inclusion in the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). This would allow Cypriot citizens to visit the US for up to 90 days without needing to apply for a visa. The program aims to simplify travel and foster closer diplomatic and economic ties between the two countries. Here’s a look at the latest developments and what Cypriots can expect.
Why Visa-Free Travel is Important for Cyprus
Cypriots currently need a visa to visit the US, unlike travelers from many European countries already part of the Visa Waiver Program. By joining, Cyprus would make it simpler for its citizens to travel for tourism, business, and family visits. The US has become a popular destination for Cypriots, with over 5,500 visas issued to Cypriots in 2023 alone—a 50% increase from the previous year.
The program also represents a step forward in Cyprus-US relations, building on recent collaboration in areas like security, energy, and data-sharing agreements.
Progress Towards Joining the Visa Waiver Program
To gain visa-free travel status, Cyprus must meet specific criteria set by the US, including:
- Visa Rejection Rate: Cyprus needs to achieve a visa rejection rate below 3% for Cypriot applicants. Officials report that they’re close to meeting this goal, which is crucial to joining the program.
- Data Security and Information Sharing: Cyprus signed an agreement with the US in 2024 to share travel information securely, meeting another key requirement of the Visa Waiver Program. This includes data-sharing for identifying potential security risks, with privacy protections in place to ensure data is used appropriately.
- Strong Security Standards: Cyprus has worked to align its crime prevention measures with US standards, focusing on combating transnational crime and terrorism—an important aspect of the program’s requirements.
When Will Cyprus Join?
Government officials, including Cyprus’s spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis, are optimistic about achieving visa-free travel by late 2024 or early 2025. The recent agreement signed with the US, along with Cyprus’s progress in meeting the rejection rate and security standards, puts the country in a strong position to reach this goal.
Once Cyprus officially joins the Visa Waiver Program, Cypriot travelers will no longer need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in the US. Instead, they’ll apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which simplifies the travel process and removes the need for embassy interviews.
What Cypriots Can Expect
Visa-free travel will make it easier for Cypriots to visit the US, benefiting tourism, business, and educational exchanges. Additionally, it could strengthen cultural and economic ties, helping to expand opportunities for Cypriot professionals, students, and families seeking to explore the US.
With these developments, Cypriot travelers should stay updated on the latest announcements and be prepared for streamlined travel procedures in the near future.