Quick answer
Residents of the Republic of Cyprus can cross to the north at nine official crossing points, two of them in central Nicosia for pedestrians only. Carry your passport or EU ID card and your Republic of Cyprus residence document. If you drive, buy separate car insurance for the north, as Republic policies do not cover it, and respect the limits on goods brought back, including 40 cigarettes per person.
- There are nine crossing points; Ledra Street and Ledra Palace in Nicosia are for pedestrians.
- Carry your passport or EU ID card plus your Republic of Cyprus residence document.
- Republic of Cyprus car insurance does not cover the north; buy separate cover at the crossing.
- Goods brought back south are limited, including 40 cigarettes per person.
- Entering Cyprus through the north is treated as illegal entry by the Republic.
Since 2003, people have been able to cross between the Republic of Cyprus and the northern part of the island at official crossing points along the UN-controlled buffer zone, often called the Green Line. This guide sets out the practical rules for residents of the Republic in 2026.
Who can cross?
Residents of the Republic of Cyprus, whatever their nationality, can cross at any official crossing point if they carry valid identity documents. The checks are carried out by the Republic's police on one side and by the authorities in the north on the other.
Two points matter if you are not an EU citizen:
- The Republic of Cyprus considers anyone who entered the island through a port or airport in the north, such as Ercan, to have entered illegally. This can lead to a fine or refusal of entry or exit. Arrive and leave through Larnaca or Paphos airports, or Limassol or Larnaca ports.
- Visitors without residence should note that days spent in the north count towards the 90-day visa-free total.
What documents do you need?
| Document | Who needs it |
|---|---|
| Passport or EU national ID card | Everyone |
| Republic of Cyprus residence document (yellow slip, residence card or residence permit) | All residents |
| Vehicle registration certificate | Drivers |
| Driving licence | Drivers |
| Insurance valid in the north | Drivers |
UK citizens need a passport, as UK ID cards are not accepted. Children need their own travel document or must be included in a parent's, depending on the country that issued it.
Where are the crossing points?
There are nine official crossing points, listed from west to east:
| Crossing point | Area | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Kato Pyrgos – Limnitis | North-west coast | Vehicles and pedestrians |
| Lefka – Apliki | West, near Troodos foothills | Vehicles and pedestrians |
| Astromeritis – Zodeia | West of Nicosia | Vehicles and pedestrians |
| Ayios Dometios | Nicosia | Vehicles and pedestrians |
| Ledra Palace | Nicosia | Pedestrians (vehicles only for UN and diplomatic traffic) |
| Ledra Street | Nicosia old town | Pedestrians only |
| Pergamos | Larnaca district, inside the Dhekelia base area | Vehicles and pedestrians |
| Strovilia | Near Paralimni | Vehicles and pedestrians |
| Dherynia | Famagusta district | Vehicles and pedestrians |
Additional crossings have been discussed in talks, but none had opened as of October 2026. Queues can build at weekends and on public holidays, so allow extra time.
How do you cross on foot?
Step 1: Go to a pedestrian crossing
Ledra Street, in the centre of Nicosia's old town, is the easiest. Ledra Palace is a short walk west. See our Nicosia guide for getting there.
Step 2: Show your documents on both sides
Show your passport or ID card and residence document to the Republic's police, then at the checkpoint on the northern side.
Step 3: Return the same way
Keep any receipts for goods you bought, in case of a customs check on your return.
How do you cross by car?
Step 1: Check your car is allowed
Your own car, registered in the Republic, can cross at the vehicle crossings. If you are using a rental car, check the agreement first, as many companies do not allow it or require an add-on.
Step 2: Buy insurance for the north
Insurance issued in the Republic of Cyprus does not cover the north. Separate policies are sold at insurance kiosks at or just after the vehicle crossings. Buy one for the full length of your stay before you drive on, and keep the certificate in the car.
Step 3: Show your documents
Have your passport or ID card, residence document, driving licence and vehicle registration certificate ready.
Step 4: Drive on the same side
Traffic drives on the left throughout the island. Drive with the same care as in the south, and keep your documents to hand in case you are stopped.
What can you bring back?
Goods bought in the north and carried south are subject to controls on quantities and types of goods, under EU rules. The Republic enforces a limit of 40 cigarettes per person, and there are also limits on alcohol and the total value of goods. The same rules cover goods from Pyla village in the buffer zone. Goods over the limits can be confiscated and fines imposed.
Meat, dairy and plant products are also restricted. If in doubt, leave it out.
Common problems
- Forgetting your residence document. Carry it every time, not only your passport.
- No insurance for the north. Driving without valid cover in the north can leave you personally liable after an accident.
- Rental car restrictions. Crossing without permission can void the rental contract and its insurance.
- Goods over the limit. Cigarettes are the most common reason for confiscation.
The Republic of Cyprus also warns that buying property in the north carries legal risks. Get independent legal advice before considering any purchase.
What to do next
Check your documents and, if you are driving, your rental agreement or car insurance before setting off.
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Contains affiliate linksFrequently asked questions
Can residents of Cyprus cross to the north?
Yes. Residents can use any official crossing point. Carry your passport or EU national ID card and the residence document issued by the Republic of Cyprus.
Which crossing points can you drive through?
Cars can use Ayios Dometios, Astromeritis, Kato Pyrgos (Limnitis), Lefka (Apliki), Pergamos, Strovilia and Dherynia. Ledra Street and Ledra Palace in Nicosia are for pedestrians.
Do I need extra car insurance to drive in the north of Cyprus?
Yes. Insurance issued in the Republic of Cyprus is not valid in the north. Separate insurance is sold at or near the vehicle crossings, and you should buy it before driving on.
Can I take a rental car to the north of Cyprus?
Only if your rental company allows it. Many do not, and some require an add-on. Check your rental agreement before you cross.
How many cigarettes can I bring back from the north of Cyprus?
The Republic of Cyprus enforces a limit of 40 cigarettes per person, and there are also limits on other goods. Goods over the limits can be confiscated and fines imposed.
