Greece will officially represent the Republic of Cyprus in issuing Schengen visas in 19 non-EU countries. This step is part of Cyprus’s preparations for full integration into the Schengen Area, which—according to preliminary estimates—is expected to be completed in the first half of 2026.
The decision was formalized in a joint statement by the foreign ministers of Cyprus and Greece, signed in Athens during the third intergovernmental summit between the two countries. The agreement symbolizes the strengthening of the strategic partnership between Nicosia and Athens in European policy, security, and diplomacy.
How the New Visa System Will Work
Under the agreement, Greek diplomatic missions will handle visa applications and issue Schengen visas in countries where Cyprus does not yet have consular representation. This will provide third-country nationals with faster and more convenient access to Schengen visas, enabling travel both to Cyprus and across the entire Schengen Area.
This cooperation is a temporary measure, valid until Cyprus fully joins the Schengen system. Once it becomes a member, the Republic will be able to process visas independently and manage its own visa regime.
Cyprus Prepares for Schengen Accession
Cyprus is actively advancing at the diplomatic level toward joining the Schengen Area. The country is currently in the final phase of EU compliance assessment, which includes border security, data processing standards, and technical integration with European databases.
The Cypriot foreign minister noted that cooperation with Greece will help accelerate the transition and demonstrate Cyprus’s readiness for full participation in the Schengen framework.
Political and Strategic Importance
Beyond visa-related matters, the ministers also discussed the Cyprus settlement process under UN auspices and the country’s upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union in 2026. The talks involved Greek Deputy Foreign Minister Alexandra Papadopoulou and Cyprus’s Deputy Minister for European Affairs Marilena Raouna.
Experts note that the agreement strengthens Cyprus’s geopolitical position in Europe and the Eastern Mediterranean and opens new opportunities for tourism, business, and international cooperation.