Cyprus opens up to 16 countries, including Armenia

YEREVAN, March 30. /ARKA Cyprus has reassessed its color-coded COVID-19 safe travel risk, downgrading Ireland back to the red category while opening up to 16 other countries, including the UK, Russia, and Israel, according to The Financial Mirror.

Based on Cyprus’ three-tier list, safe countries are categorized as Green, Orange, Red, with arrivals allowed entry without quarantine once March restrictions end.

The additional Grey tier is for arrivals from non-EU countries that require special permission and have to self-isolate.

However, in a bid to increase tourist arrivals, in line with the guidelines of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), authorities have decided to move 16 countries from Grey into the Red category.

From 1 April, Cyprus will be moving the UK, Israel, Russia, the UAE, Ukraine, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Belarus, Rwanda, Serbia, USA, Armenia, Georgia, Bahrain, and Qatar into the red.

This means travelers from these countries are allowed entry if they carry a negative coronavirus test, no older than 72 hours, and take another upon arrival.

Cypriot authorities are trying to encourage tourists from third countries, including its three largest markets, the UK, Russia, and Israel, believing the move will increase air connectivity.

Tourists from the UK and Israel, who can prove they are vaccinated against COVID-19, will be allowed entry into Cyprus without getting tested or quarantine.

Although the light system allows entry for visitors from 56 countries, a rise in coronavirus cases internationally has led to restrictions introduced for March.

Until March 31, low-risk Green category arrivals will be asked to undergo a PCR laboratory test upon arrival in Cyprus, the cost of which will be covered by the Republic, while travelers from Orange and Red countries must have two tests, one upon arrival.

UK arrivals must undergo a COVID-19 test upon arrival at Larnaca or Paphos Airports, and they are transported to designated hotels – free of charge – for mandatory 7-day isolation.

After that, they undergo another PCR test, and if negative, they will remain in self-isolation for another three days. -0-