Cyprus Post 2026: Expert tips for fast parcel delivery

Moving to Cyprus doesn't mean cutting ties with the rest of the world. In fact, this beautiful Mediterranean island has excellent logistics connections with Europe, UK and USA, meaning you can still keep sending letters and gifts to your friends and family and shop online without any issues.

With the recent digital Cyprus Post upgrade, it has become even easier and more convenient than before. However, there are still important rules and charges for international shipments to be aware of. That's why we have prepared a comprehensive manual for navigating the Cyprus postal services: from sending International Express shipments to receiving packages from outside the EU without surprises.

Fastrack: Everything you need to know in 30 seconds

Cyprus Post offers several ways to send and receive parcels, ranging from express delivery to larger shipments. Parcels can be collected either in person or through the Post 24 parcel locker service.

Delivery times can vary significantly depending on the service selected and the destination. Below are the approximate delivery times for the most popular destinations:

The «yellow slip» system: what to do when you miss a delivery

If you were not at home at the time of delivery of your parcel, a postal worker will usually leave a yellow collection notice (yellow slip) in your mailbox.

The notice contains the tracking or reference number, the date of the attempted delivery and tells you where and when you can collect your item. Alternatively, you might receive an SMS notification.

You can usually pick up your parcel from your local Post Office — just take your «yellow slip» or SMS notification and a valid photo ID. In some instances, if you can't collect it personally, you could authorise a third person to collect it for you. To do that, you will need to complete a special authorization form.

Typically, you have up to 30 days to collect your parcel, after that, in case of a no-show, it might be returned to the sender.

Sending parcels from Cyprus: services and procedures

Sending a parcel abroad from Cyprus has become a breeze, thanks to the recently rolled-out Cyprus Post digital system. All you have to do is package your parcel and hop online, where you can select the desired postal service, fill out the customs declaration, if needed, and generate an item label — all without leaving the comfort of your home. The last thing left to do is to stop at your nearest post office and drop off your parcel.

Shipment Request

The first step before sending postal items is creating a shipping request via an online shipping tool. It is mandatory for:

1. Items containing goods sent to non-EU countries
2. All parcels, regardless of destination
3. EMS Datapost shipments
4. Many registered or insured items containing goods

You will also need to fill out the following information:

1. Sender and recipient details
2. Destination country
3. Description of the contents
4. Quantity and value of each item
5. Weight of the shipment
6. Customs information, if applicable

You will also need to select an appropriate HS code from Harmonized System Codes for your postal item.

After that, the system automatically generates a label, which you can attach to your parcel and dispatch it at your nearest post office.

Choosing your service level

Cyprus Post offers a variety of services for every parcel type and destination. You can always find the right option for you, depending on what item you are sending and how soon you want it to get to the recipient.

1. Registered Post: for documents and letters

Registered Post allows senders to securely send documents, certificates, letters and even books. The service provides extra features like proof of posting, tracking number, signature upon delivery option and compensation in case of loss, valued at 30 SDR (Special Drawing Rights) plus postage costs.

Please note that as of January 1, 2026 Cyprus Post only allows documents and letters to be sent internationally via Registered Post. For sending goods, it is recommended using EMS DataPost, Parcel Delivery or Recorded Delivery services.

The actual postage fees may vary depending on the destination and item weight. However, the following standard fees are added on top of the postage fees:

1. Standard Registration: 1,88 euro
2. Registration with Proof of Delivery: 2,88 euro
3. Registration with Personal Delivery: 2,88 euro
4. Registration with Proof & Personal Delivery: 3,88 euro

The delivery times also vary per destination:

1. Cyprus (domestic): 1–3 working days
2. Greece: 3–7 working days
3. EU countries: 4–10 working days
4. UK: 5–10 working days
5. USA & Canada: 1–3 weeks
6. Australia: 2–4 weeks

2. EMS DataPost: the express choice

The fastest option for sending packages internationally is EMS DataPost. This International Courier service is perfect for sending documents and small merchandise rapidly and securely. The service features priority handling, online tracking and signature on delivery in most destinations. It is important to note that for parcels containing goods, you must create an online item label and fill out the customs declaration forms, where applicable. The estimated delivery times for various destinations are as follows:

1. Europe: 2–5 working days
2. Middle East: 3–7 working days
3. North America: 4–8 working days
4. Australia and Asia: 5–10 working days

The shipping price depends on your destination and parcel weight. It's advised to check the weight limits for your destination in advance as they can vary. And, just like with Registered Post, in case of parcel loss, a compensation of up to 150 euro is available.

3. Parcel Post: for heavy international shipments

If you are planning on sending heavier packages, then Parcel Post service is the best choice. Allowing parcels of up to 20 kg, Parcel Post is perfect for sending personal belongings, household items, e-commerce purchases and more. Compared to EMS, Parcel Post has lower shipping costs, but longer delivery times. The estimated delivery times for this service are as follows:

1. Europe: approximately 1–3 weeks
2. North America: 2–4 weeks
3. Australia and some Asian destinations: 3–8 weeks

For certain destinations Parcel Post offers a priority Interconnect Premium service with more advanced tracking and signature upon arrival.

Digital tools and customs declarations

In the last few years, Cyprus Post has completely revamped its services and gone digital. Currently it offers a comprehensive list of online services:

1. Track & Trace
2. Postal rates calculator
3. Post Office locator
4. ePost Portal — a complete self-service portal allowing users access to the shipment services, philatelic products, P.O. Box management, mail redirection and Parcel24 services
5. THALISUPP customs platform for those who are receiving a parcel from outside the EU
6. Shipping Tool (eCustoms) which is used for shipping goods internationally. The system generates a mailing label, allows you to fill out the electronic customs declaration (CN22 or CN23) and transmits the data to customs authorities seamlessly.
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Online customs forms (CN22/CN23)

When shipping goods internationally, you need to fill out either CN22 and CN23 customs forms. Both forms are designed to provide additional information about your items to the customs. These are standard forms, recognized worldwide by the Universal Postal Union and used by postal operators around the world. The Cyprus Post system automatically creates a required customs declaration, based on the item you're sending, its value and destination.

Let's take a look at how they differ.

CN22

This form is largely used for small, lower-value shipments. It is perfect for sending gifts, personal belongings, or, for shipping hand-made goods.

It is a rather simple form, requiring only basic information, such as:

1. Sender's name and address
2. Recipient's name and address
3. Description of contents
4. Quantity
5. Weight
6. Value
7. HS tariff code
8. Country of origin
9. Reason for export (gift, sale, return, documents, etc.)
10. Signature and date

Once the form is filled, the system produces a sticker label, which can be attached to the parcel directly.

CN23

If you're planning on sending high-value or multiple items, then you would be required to submit a more detailed CN23 form. Typically it is used for heavier, more valuable items or commercial goods.

In addition to generic information, provided for CN22 form, this customs declaration includes questions on:

1. Detailed list of all items
2. Net weight per item
3. Total shipment value
4. Shipping costs
5. Currency used
6. Recipient phone number
7. Recipient email
8. Commercial invoice references
9. Import/export references

Once submitted, the system issues a full-page detailed form, which is then placed in the transparent pouch and attached to the parcel. Sometimes, additional supporting documents may also be required.

The Cyprus Post mobile app

The Cyprus Post mobile app is a convenient one-stop place for your most popular postal queries. Here you can find postal codes based on the address, estimate postage costs, and find your nearest post office. You can also track your package and use Parcel24 service — a 24 hour access to the parcel locker system.

Additionally, the app allows users to submit postal forms and access customer support. However, you cannot submit customs declarations through the app. For that, you would still need to use the shipping tool/ e-customs platform on the Cyprus Post website.

Receiving parcels: delivery methods and locations

There are several ways for receiving postal items in Cyprus and you can pick one based on your lifestyle and requirements.

Delivery to your door vs post office

The most common delivery method is delivering the package to your door. If the item doesn't require customs clearance, in most cases it will be delivered to your address. But what if you were not at home at the time? Or, if the item requires customs clearance? In that case, a trip to the post office is required.

If the parcel could not be delivered in person, you will usually receive either a written note in your mailbox or a phone notification asking you to collect it personally. For collection, just remember to provide a tracking number and your current ID.

It's important to note that standard post office working hours are as follows:

1. Monday to Friday — from 8.00 am till 2.30 pm
2. The post offices are closed on weekends and public holidays.
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Post 24: the 24/7 parcel locker solution

If you're spending lots of time out and about during standard delivery times, then a Post24 solution may be a perfect fit for you. Essentially, it is a 24/7 parcel locker service for receiving parcels and e-commerce purchases. To start using it you just need to register online — either on Cyprus Post website or app, select the desired locker location as well as a backup locker.

When your parcel arrives, you'll receive a notification with a PIN or collection code. You can visit the locker anytime and enter the code to open the compartment and collect your parcel. There is a 72 hour time limit for collecting your parcel, after which Cyprus Post will remove it from the locker and offer alternative pick-up arrangements. The size and weight limits for parcels also apply — usually the items of up to 30 kg can be accepted and the package size shouldn't exceed 47x35x50 cm in order to fit in the locker. For bulkier items, alternative arrangements will be made — either pick up from the post office or a courier service. Post 24 service offers a pay-per-use option of 0,88 euro per parcel, or a subscription plan. You have a choice of monthly, quarterly and annual subscriptions for the following prices:

1. Monthly — 2.00 euro
2. Quarterly — 5.00 euro
3. Annual — 18.00 euro

PO Boxes: a permanent solution for nomads

If you’re moving around quite a lot and are not staying in one permanent place for the long-term, receiving mail can become a challenge. In that case, renting a PO Box from Cyprus Post can provide a convenient and cost effective solution, which could specifically benefit digital nomads, business owners, or those who are not spending all their time in Cyprus, but want to maintain a postal address.

Essentially, a PO Box is a locked mailbox with a unique number, located inside a post office. It can be used for receiving personal correspondence, government documents, bank statements, business mail, and small online shopping deliveries. One of the biggest advantages of owning a PO Box is having a permanent mailing address, regardless of whether you move houses or travel abroad.

In order to rent a PO Box you will need to visit Cyprus Post online portal or a local post office and complete the application form, present your ID and pay the annual rental fee. Estimated rental fees are as follows:

1. 1 year — 31 euro
2. 2 years — 55 euro
3. 3 years — 85 euro

There is also a one-time key fee of approximately 6 euros. You can renew your rental anytime — either online or in person. A PO Box is the best permanent solution for postal items receiving, mail management, and secure storage while travelling or living abroad.

Customs, VAT and import taxes: avoiding hidden costs

When shipping items from outside the EU to Cyprus, the recipient might encounter additional costs, such as VAT, customs duties, customs presentation fee, clearance fees etc. Sometimes, these costs might amount to a hefty amount, comparable to the actual value of the item itself. To avoid being hit by these unexpected charges, it's important to do your research and pay attention when shopping online, if the seller is located outside the EU. Below, we have outlined some of the most common charges you might be expected to pay when importing items from outside Europe.

The IOSS system and EU shipments

Since July 2021, all items imported from outside the EU incur an additional VAT charge. For Cyprus, the standard VAT rate is 19% from the item value. At the same time, the European authorities have introduced an IOSS system designed to simplify this process.

IOSS — «The Import One Stop Shop» is an EU-wide VAT system designed for shipping low-value goods (under 150 euro) from outside the EU. Normally, under IOSS, the seller collects VAT at the time of checkout. Additionally, the parcel is usually marked with an IOSS ID, indicating to the customs authorities that VAT has already been paid.

In other words, the IOSS system adds convenience and transparency, allowing you to see the final price (including VAT) before checking out. It also eliminates the need to pay additional VAT charges after receiving the parcel.

In order to make sure the IOSS system is used by the seller, check if VAT is shown separately at checkout and the final price includes local EU VAT. Also, you can look for IOSS scheme participation, or, for the «VAT included» sign on the seller's page. Whilst IOSS scheme covers most lower-value goods, it doesn't apply to the following:

1. If the consignment value exceeds 150 euro
2. For restricted goods (such as alcohol or tobacco)
3. If the seller has not registered for IOSS

Non-EU imports: fees and duty thresholds

In addition to the VAT fees described above, there are also customs duties involved when receiving a parcel from outside the EU. Since July 2026, the EU has abolished the customs duty exemption for low-value imports of under 150 euro. According to the new rules, now all items with a value of up to 150 euro are subject to a flat customs duty fee of 3 euro. However, for imports above the value of 150 euro, the standard customs procedures apply, meaning that customs duties are calculated according to the product category and tariff code. On top of that, additional customs clearance fees may be collected by the postal operator or courier.

How to pay customs fees online

Normally, if your parcel is processed by the Cyprus Post, you would use «THALIS Upload and Payment Platform», also known as THALISUPP. It allows recipients to upload customs documents and pay online VAT, duties, and other charges before the item arrives or is released for delivery.

You can access the THALISUPP Platform online from the Cyprus Post website. There you can register and upload any necessary supporting documents. Typically, you may be required to submit:

1. Invoice or proof of purchase
2. PayPal or card payment receipt
3. Order confirmation
4. Description of the contents

After that, the customs will assess your documents and present the charges, usually including:

1. Import VAT
2. Customs duties (if applicable)
3. Any other customs charges
4. The Cyprus Post «Presentation to Customs» fee (approx. 3.50 euro p/item)

You can pay all your customs fees online directly from the THALISUPP platform. Alternatively, you can also visit your designated Post Office and pay them in person.

Practical tips for a flawless experience

Sending parcels to and from Cyprus is very straightforward, and these tips below will make it even easier.

How to correctly write a Cyprus address

A standard Cyprus address should be written in the following format:

1. Recipient Name
2. House or Building Number and Street Name
3. Postal Code
4. Town/City
5. CYPRUS

Finding your local post office

Thanks to the new online features, you can easily find your nearest post office from Cyprus Post website or app.

Use the postal code search tool to find which office serves your area. Just enter your district, area, and street name. The results will show the postal code and the post office responsible for that address.

Frequently asked questions

My tracking says:«Held by customs», what should I do?

This is quite a common status for all items arriving from outside the EU. It simply means that Cyprus Customs may need to verify its value, contents, or VAT status. You might need to submit your invoice, proof of payment and contents description through the THALISUPP platform.

Once the customs assessment is complete, you can pay any VAT, duties, and fees online. After clearance, the parcel will be released for delivery or collection.

How long can a parcel stay at the post office?

Typically, all items and parcels can be collected for up to 30 days after the arrival. If the parcel is not collected within this period, it may be returned to the sender or handled according to the sender's instructions.

Can I send liquids or batteries through the Cyprus post?

Because rules vary by destination country and postal service, it is recommended to check the current prohibited and restricted items list before posting.

What is the «presentation to customs» fee and why do I have to pay it?

The Presentation to Customs Fee is a charge collected by Cyprus Post for presenting imported postal items to Customs authorities for examination and processing.

This standard flat fee of 3.50 euro applies to all postal items subject to customs procedures, regardless of the value of the goods.

Is there a way to redirect my parcel to a different office?

Cyprus Post offers Delivery Choice, which allows eligible parcels to be redirected to:

a Parcel24 locker or a selected collection point. However, once the parcel has arrived at a specific office, it might not be easy to automatically redirect it to another office. It is highly recommended to contact Cyprus Post customer service to discuss your options.

Whether you need to send important documents abroad, receive international parcels, rent a PO Box, or navigate customs procedures, Cyprus Post offers a wide range of services to

suit different needs and budgets. With convenient Cyprus Post digital tools you can navigate the complex international shipping rules and regulations with ease.

We hope this guide helps make your next postal experience a little easier.

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