Health and Safety

 

Health Care System

Emergency Medical Treatment and Assistance in Cyprus is offered free of charge to international tourists. In cases of emergency this is provided through the Accident and Emergency Department of Government Hospitals and Health Institutions.

EU citizens must produce an E111 form or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued by their country's health care authorities to obtain additional health care. 

Holiday makers can also use their health insurance towards their medical expenses, provided the policy covers the length of their stay on the island.

More detailed information can be obtained from the Cyprus Ministry of Health

 

 

Vaccinations

Cyprus has no dangerous infectious diseases. Visitors do not require any vaccinations to travel to Cyprus.

Safety in Cyprus

Cyprus has an excellent reputation for being a safe and friendly place. You can help us keep it that way. A few basic precautions can be enough to protect your belongings.

Driving in Cyprus

Driving in Cyprus can be enjoyable.

• The minimum driving age is 18. To rent a car, drivers must be in possession of a driving license for at least three years or be aged over 25.
• Visitors may drive using a valid international driving license or their national driving license, provided it is valid for the class of vehicle they wish to drive.
• Drivers should note that driving is on the left-hand side of the road, not on the right.
• All the international road traffic signs are in use and placed on the left-hand side of roads and highways.
• Distances and speed limits are posted in kilometers and kilometer/per hour (km/h) respectively. The maximum speed limit on motorways is 100 km/h and the minimum is 65 km/h.
• The use of seatbelts is compulsory both in the front and back, while the use of mobile phones is strictly prohibited while driving. 
• It is an offence to drive a vehicle or a pedal bicycle when under the influence of alcohol.
• The legal limit in breath is 22 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.
• Rush hours in the cities are approximately between 07:30 - 08:00 and 13:00 - 13:30 and in late afternoon 17:00 - 18:00 in winter or 18:00 - 19:00 in summer.  

Pharmacies and Medications

Medicine can be purchased at pharmacies on presentation of a doctor's prescription. Almost all brands of medicine are available in Cyprus. Pharmacies are all marked with a green cross.

Emergency Numbers

In case of emergency call 112 wherever you are on the island.