Flying drones in Cyprus: 2026 laws and registration

Cyprus is probably one of the best destinations for recreational drone flights and commercial videography. It offers breathtaking scenery, a wide variety of landscapes and clear skies all year round, so it's not surprising that many aerial photography enthusiasts have been flocking to Cyprus to capture the beauty of the island from a bird's-eye view.

In addition to its gorgeous nature, Cyprus is a part of EASA regulation framework, offering clear and transparent drone laws and regulations.

So, if you're wondering what it takes to fly a drone in Cyprus in 2026, we’ve prepared this up-to-date guide to help you navigate local skies safely and smoothly.

Can I fly in Cyprus today?

Following the unprecedented drone attacks earlier this year, Cyprus government had imposed a temporary ban on flying drones in Cyprus in March 2026.

Since then, the ban has been lifted and civilian drone flights are allowed again. However, in order to comply with all Cypriot civil aviation drone laws and EASA regulations, it is important to ensure you have all the required documents. Let's go through a quick checklist to get you started:

— Registration

If you operate any drone in Cyprus, equipped with a camera, or if it weighs over 250 g, you most certainly require to obtain an Operator Registration Number at Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation and A1/A3 Remote Pilot Certificate.

— Insurance

Whilst insurance isn't compulsory for ordinary recreational flights in unrestricted areas under the basic Open Category rules, a third-party liability insurance of 1,000,000 euro is required for:

Operating in Airport Zone B

Flying under operational authorizations

Conducting certain professional operations

— Maximum Altitude

Under the Open Category rules, maximum flight altitude is 120 m above ground. For higher altitudes, a special authorisation may be required.

— Visual Line of Sight (VLOS)

Your drone must always be in the Visual Line of Sight, regardless of whether it is a daytime or night operation. This usually means that you must be able to keep the drone visible with your own eyes and determine its orientation.

EASA drone categories and pilot requirements

According to the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), most recreational and low-risk commercial drone flights fall into the Open Category.

In order to qualify for the Open Category, the drones in Cyprus must:

1. Stay within visual line of sight (VLOS)
2. Fly a drone at a maximum height of 120 m above ground
3. Not carry dangerous goods
4. Not drop materials that could endanger people.

The Open Category, in turn, is divided into 3 subcategories, depending on the drone size, proximity to people and overall perceived risk levels.

Subcategory A1 (Flying Over People)

This category generally allows flying drones over individuals, but not large groups. For example, it doesn't permit flying over crowds or large assemblies of people such as concerts, demonstrations, or packed sporting events. Generally, you should be safe to fly a drone in Cyprus over parks, around buildings or quiet populated areas as long as there are no large gatherings.

The typical drones allowed under this subcategory are lightweight drones, such as:

C0 drones (<250 g)

C1 drones (<900 g)

For pilots operating very lightweight drones (under 250 g), the requirements are minimal. Whilst for C1 drones, it is compulsory to complete online training, pass the A1/A3 online theory exam and

register as an operator.

In addition, the following requirements must be met:

1. All drones in Cyprus must stay within visual line of sight (VLOS)
2. You must fly a drone at a maximum height of 120 m above ground
3. Do not carry dangerous goods
4. Do not drop materials that could endanger people.

Subcategory A2 (Flying near People)

Subcategory A2 allows flying at a minimum distance of 30 m from uninvolved people, making it popular for professional and commercial photography, inspections, and urban filming. Additionally, if your drone supports a certified low-speed mode, the distance may be reduced to 5 m.

Typically, this subcategory allows C2 drones (up to 4 kg), such as:

1. DJI Mavic 4 Pro
2. DJI Mavic 3 Pro
3. DJI M30T
4. Autel EVO Max

To operate under A2 subcategory, the pilots are required to have completed A1/A3 certificate as well as an A2 theoretical training and examination.

Once it's complete, the next step will be conducting practical self-training and studying additional safety materials. After this, pilots must pass one more theoretical examination and obtain an A2 Certificate of Competency, otherwise known as an A2 Remote Pilot Certificate.

Subcategory A3 (Flying Far From People)

This subcategory does not permit flying drones directly over people. Generally, drones in Cyprus must keep at least 150 m from residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas.

Only flights over unpopulated areas are allowed, making A3 subcategory perfect for commercial and surveillance projects.

A variety of drones in Cyprus are permitted — from lightweight to larger models, such as:

1. C2 drones
2. C3 drones
3. C4 drones

The pilot requirements for this subcategory are less stringent compared to the other two.

To qualify, the pilots must complete A1/A3 online training and theory examination and obtain operator registration when required.

Registration and licensing: A guide for tourists and residents

The operator ID Vs Flyer ID

Operator ID

In Cyprus, as in the rest of the EU, you must register as an operator in order to perform most recreational and professional flights, especially if your drone has a camera/sensor, or weighs over 250 g. Upon registering you will receive a unique operator registration number, otherwise known as an Operator ID. This unique registration number is linked to the person or organization responsible for the drone.

In Cyprus, the Operator ID must be attached to the drone and get uploaded into the remote identification system, if applicable.

If you own more than one drone, the same operator number must be used on all of your drones. The Operator Registration is valid for 3 years and is subject to renewal.

Flyer ID / Remote Pilot Certificate (A1/A3)

A Remote Pilot Certificate (A1/A3) is a European equivalent to the UK Flyer ID.

It refers to the pilot’s qualification and proves that the pilot is familiar with local airspace rules and regulations, safety measures and emergency protocols.

In order to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate in Cyprus, you must be at least 16 years of age and have undergone online training and passed the online exam with the minimum score of 75%. This certificate is required for most pilots flying in the Open Category and is valid for 5 years.

Temporary registration for visitors

Because Cyprus follows EASA regulations, if you are from the EU and already possess an EU/EASA Operator Registration ID and a valid EU/EASA Remote Pilot Certificate (A1/A3 or A2), typically your registration will remain valid in Cyprus.

However, if you are visiting from a non-EU country and Cyprus is the first EU state where you will fly a drone, you must register as a drone operator in Cyprus.

To qualify, you must be at least 18 y.o. Luckily, it can easily be done online and your Operator ID number will be issued electronically.

In addition, you will also need to obtain a Remote Pilot Certificate (A1/A3).

Remote ID compliance

Recently, Remote ID has become an important regulation rule in Cyprus as a part of an EU-wide compliance framework.

For example, the Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation requires your Operator Registration Number to be uploaded into the drone's Remote Identification System when applicable.

Remote ID helps authorities to track and identify drones, revealing important information on Operator ID, drone identification and location, speed and altitude, and, sometimes, pilot's location. This system contributes to safety and transparency of drone operations within the EU. Generally, most class-marked drones (C1–C6) and many newer commercial and advanced recreational drones are required to display a Remote ID.

Restricted zones and no-fly areas in Cyprus

Airport Geo zones (Red and Yellow zones)

Red Zones (Zone A)

According to international regulations, both Larnaca International Airport and Paphos International Airport are classified as «Red Zones A», meaning that drone operations in these areas are strictly prohibited.

Because of the very high risk of collisions with aircrafts, the violations of these restrictions can result in significant fines and even imprisonment.

Yellow Zones (Zone B)

The areas surrounding the airports are considered «Yellow Zones», meaning these areas are restricted rather than prohibited.

You may fly a drone in Cyprus over «yellow zones» only if you obtain authorization from the Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation first. In order to apply you must submit your application several working days in advance and obtain a third-party liability insurance with approximately 1 million euro coverage.

Military bases and the Green Line

Due to its sensitive geopolitical situation, Cyprus has several strategic areas, such as British Forces military bases and the Green Line, where movement and drone operations are either completely prohibited or severely restricted.

For example, flying over or anywhere near military bases, facilities and National Guard installations is generally prohibited or requires special authorization.

Examples of such sensitive areas include:

1. The British Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia
2. National Guard facilities
3. Areas near military airfields
4. Certain radar and defense installations.

Following the recent attacks on RAF Akrotiri, authorities are highly vigilant over all drone activities anywhere near that area.

Natura 2000 and Archeological sites

Cyprus has a plethora of natural conservation areas — some of them belong to the Natura 2000 network. These conservation areas are protected under the EU Bird and Habitat Directive and are aimed at creating a safe habitat for the island’s rare flora and fauna species.

Birds are especially sensitive to drone activity, hence flying over the Natura 2000 sites can be largely restricted and might require obtaining authorisation.

Another protected area is Cyprus’s archeological sites. According to local regulations, drones should not be flown above, within, or close to archaeological sites without approval from the relevant authority.

The main authority responsible for archaeological heritage in the Republic of Cyprus is the Department of Antiquities.

Some of the reasons for such rigid restrictions are the potential of damaging important historical sites, posing danger to the tourists and visitors, as well as for security reasons and for preserving local cultural heritage.

Examples of such areas include:

1. Kourion
2. Paphos Archaeological Park
3. Choirokoitia
4. Other Department of Antiquities sites.

Useful tip: Always check the Cyprus Geo-Zones map, which can be found on

https://drones.gov.cy/geo-zones-map/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Here you will find accurate and up-to-date information from the Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation showing where drone operations are either allowed, restricted or completely prohibited.

Mandatory insurance and safety standards

Whilst for some low-risk drone operations, a third-party liability insurance is not compulsory, it becomes absolutely essential for flights in areas that require a special authorisation, such as:

1. Professional aerial filming
2. Infrastructure inspections
3. Mapping and surveying
4. Operations in restricted airport airspace
5. Coverage requirements and proof

As outlined by the Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation requirements, a 1,000,000 euro third-party liability insurance is compulsory for:

— Operations in Airport Zone B (yellow restricted zones).

— Operational authorizations in the Specific Category.

Typically, a third-party liability insurance covers:

1. Injury to other people
2. Damage to vehicles
3. Damage to buildings
4. Property damage caused by the drone

However, it does not cover damages to your own drone, normal wear and tear, as well as intentional unsolicited acts.

For obtaining authorisation and airspace permission requests, it is generally required by Cyprus DCA to provide the following:

1. Insurance certificate
2. Policy number
3. Coverage amount
4. Validity dates
5. Operator details matching your registration

Night flying after sunset and the legal implications

According to the recent EASA regulations, night drone operations are not prohibited, however, you must comply with all the normal Open Category rules, such as maintaining Visual Line of Sight (VLOS), staying below the applicable altitude limit and respecting all geo-zones and restricted airspace.

Also, for night flights, all drones are required to be equipped with green flashing lights.

In addition, due to recent regional geopolitical tensions, in March 2026 Cyprus authorities issued a nationwide ban on civilian drone operations.

Since then, some restrictions have been lifted, however, certain Geo-Zones, such as military bases, airports as well as archeological and Natura 2000 sites remain heavily restricted.

Because these measures can change anytime, pilots are encouraged to check the latest official notices before flying, especially for night.

Flying after dusk can present perfect opportunities for scenic footage, especially in Cyprus. But, it's important to keep in mind that night drone operations can pose additional risks, such as:

1. Loss of orientation
2. Risk of entering restricted Geo-Zones by mistake.
3. Reduced visibility and ability to maintain VLOS.
4. Increased collision risk.
5. Difficulty identifying people and vehicles below.
6. Greater risk of disturbing wildlife in their natural habitat.
7. Increased security concerns from the general public.

Because of these perceived risks, any rule violation occurring at night may be taken more seriously by Cyprus authorities and may impose stricter penalties.

Practical tips for pilots in Cyprus

Dealing with extreme heat and high winds

Cyprus boasts some of the most scenic locations in Europe, however, it can also have very hot dry summers and strong winds. In summer months, especially in August, inland temperatures can rise over + 40 C. Such extreme heat can be dangerous for sensitive lithium batteries which degrade rapidly in high temperatures.

To avoid it, always keep batteries in the shade and avoid leaving them under direct sunlight or inside closed vehicles.

Also, hot air is less dense and drone motors have to work harder to maintain lift. Because of that, it's recommended to shorten flight times during daytime in summer. As a general rule of thumb, the safest and most photogenic flying times are in the early morning — at sunrise till 10 am, and late afternoon — after 5 pm until sunset. This is the time when you get the best lighting and visibility and avoid exposing your drones to extreme weather conditions.

High winds are another risk factor when operating a drone in Cyprus, especially very lightweight models. Some of the windiest spots tend to be coastal and mountain areas, such as Cape Greco, Akamas Peninsula, coastal areas around Paphos and the Troodos mountains. At the same time, Nicosia and surrounding inland areas also receive afternoon gusty winds during summertime.

Best apps for real-time air space checking

— Official Cyprus Department of Civil Aviation Geo-Zone Map should always be your first point of contact before flying in Cyprus. It includes up-to-date information on airport zones, restricted and prohibited areas and special authorization zones. Because local regulations can change unexpectedly, it's important to check it before every flight.

— UAV Forecast is one of the most popular drone apps for checking weather conditions. It covers wind speed, gusts, visibility, satellite count, KP index, as well as a fly/no-fly assessment.

— OpenSky is quite popular with enthusiasts as it shows real-time aircraft traffic.

Frequently asked questions

Can I fly a DJI Mini 4Pro without a license in Cyprus?

For many recreational flights in the Open Category, especially for such lightweight drones, a separate operational authorization is usually not required. However, obtaining Operator Registration ID and an A1/A3 Remote Pilot Certificate may still be required, depending on the operation type and whether the drone carries a camera. It's best to consult the Cyprus DCA and EASA regulations before flying.

What is the fine for flying in a no-fly zone?

Fines vary significantly, depending on the Zone type and the violation.

For example, violating an Airport Red Zone (A) can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment. Entering the Military bases or Green Line airspace can trigger security-checks, drone confiscation, penalties and prosecution. Whilst flying over Natura 2000 zones and Archeological sites can result in fines and permit issues.

Can I use my UK or US drone license in Cyprus?

If Cyprus is your first EU state where you intend to fly drones, then according to EASA regulations you must obtain an Operator Registration Number and Remote Pilot Certificate (A1/A3).

Do I need a permit for commercial real estate filming?

It depends on the operation. If it involves flying near people or residential buildings, or in densely populated urban environments, you would require additional permits, such as property owner permission and site-specific permissions.

Are drones allowed on the beaches of Ayia Napa and Protaras?

Whilst flying over beaches is not typically restricted in Cyprus, it is important to avoid flying over very crowded beaches. In addition, some Natura 2000 sites, such as Cape Greco may be restricted or have additional rules and regulations.

Flying a drone is always fun and exhilarating, especially in Cyprus, which looks even more stunning from the aerial view. But, in order to avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of fines and penalties, it is essential to be up-to-date with the latest laws and regulations.

We wish you clear and safe skies and hope your next drone flight in Cyprus will be memorable.