Since the Turkish occupation of Northern Cyprus in 1974 the island has been divided from Morphus Bay on the east coast to Famagusta on the west with the capital Nicosia being the only divided capital in the world.

The Republic of Cyprus to the south of the dividing line covers 60% of the islands geographical area and has a population of circa 1.15 million. Cyprus was incorporated into the European Union on May 01st 2004 and joined the Euro currency on 01st January 2008. Previously a member of the British Commonwealth a strong British influence is still evident on the island including driving on the left hand side.

Salamis Lines operate a weekly freight ferry service from Lavrio (Piraeus) in Greece to the islands main port of Limassol.

Couriers, van operators, lorry and truck drivers are required to carry a full passport, an international or national driving licence, original vehicle registration documents, MOT/ road worthiness certificates, green card insurance and display the vehicles road fund licence. It is also a requirement to carry 2 warning triangles and nationality identification plates. Authorities and driving associations also recommend the carrying of a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, spare bulbs, a torch and a reflective jacket or waistcoat.

Some customs procedures are in place in Cyprus and customs offices are open 0800 – 1330 hrs (01st May to 30th Sept) and 0800 – 1400 hrs (01st Oct to 30th April). TIR or ATA carnets are required as are country of origin certificated. bills of lading details and health certifications, if applicable. On arrival at port drivers will be asked to complete form C104 outlining the conditions of the vehicles entry and exit permissions. Goods to, from or transiting through Cyprus require customs authorisation which is also obtained at the port of entry.
In Cyprus the following height, length and weight regulations are applied. A maximum height of 4.0m and a maximum width of 2.5m (2.6m if refrigerated)are applied. Rigid lorries have a length restriction of 12m whilst articulated vehicles are restricted at 16.5m and road trains 18.35m. Maximum permitted weights for a 2 axle vehicle is 16t, 24t for a 3 axle vehicle and 31t if on 4 axles. Cyprus falls under the ADR regulation for the carriage of dangerous goods.

Couriers, van operators, lorry and truck drivers

Couriers, van operators, lorry and truck drivers should also be aware of the speed limits on the island of Cyprus. A limit of 50 km/h applies in built up areas, 65 – 80 km/h on secondary roads and a limit of 80 – 100 on main roads and motorways. Drivers should also note that motorways have a minimum speed requirement of 65 km/h on motorways. Drink driving limits are set at 50mgs of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood and 22 micrograms of alcohol in 100 millilitres of expelled breath. The use of mobile phones whilst driving is illegal unless used in conjunction with a hands free system. Dipped headlights have to be used an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset.

Police can impose on the spot fines for traffic offences although these are not collected by the issuing officer.

In the event of any emergency dial either 112 or 199 to contact any of the emergency services.

Other useful information and advice can be obtained from:

British High Commission – brithc.2@cytanet.com.cy

Tel. 00 357 22 861 100

Transport Development Association Ltd (TDA)

tdacypr@cytanet.com.cy

Tel. 00 357 22 59 2050