The health, wellbeing and safety of our community is our primary concern during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude and thanks to the healthcare professionals at the frontline of combatting this pandemic, as well as the other key workers who are ensuring the continued wellbeing of all of us.
We have worked with UK and Cypriot Government to compile the key information for our UK Cypriot community (both UK and Cypriot nationals). Please visit the links and websites throughout this email for the most recent and accurate information.
On this page you can find:
- Information for UK nationals (UK Government advice and travel advice)
- Information for Cypriot nationals (consular services, travel to Cyprus)
- Local information, initiatives and support
Updated on 21 September 2020
Information for UK nationals
General advice
There are three simple actions we must all do to keep on protecting each other:
- Wash hands – keep washing your hands regularly
- Cover face – wear a face covering in enclosed spaces
- Make space – stay at least 2 metres apart – or 1 metre with a face covering or other precaution
Get a test and stay at home if you have COVID-19 symptoms:
- a high temperature
- a new, continuous cough
- a loss of, or change to, your sense of smell or taste
Tier system
There are now different local restrictions across the UK, and measures vary according to whether you are in England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland. A tiered system is in place and local areas are reviewed on a regular basis.
Local restriction tiers: what you need to know
Find out what tier your area is in and what the local restrictions are
Travel advice
The Foreign & Commonwealth Office (FCO) advises British people against all non-essential international travel. Travel to some countries and territories is currently exempted from this, including Cyprus. The advice is being kept under constant review. Travel disruption is still possible and national control measures may be brought in with little notice, so check the FCO’s travel guidance
Entering the UK: Unless you are travelling from an exempt country or territory, you will need to self-isolate in the place you’re staying for the first 14 days after you arrive.
Useful links
- Self-isolating: stay at home if you think you have coronavirus
- Guidance for households with grandparents, parents and children living together where someone is at increased risk
- Stay alert: what you can and cannot do
- How to meet others safely (social distancing)
- Face coverings: when to wear one and how to make your own
- Shielding: protecting yourself if you’re clinically extremely vulnerable
- Unpaid carers: supporting friends and family
- Find out about coronavirus testing
- Areas with local restrictions
- Getting financial help and staying safe at work
- Getting financial help and keeping your business safe
- Guidance for teachers, school leaders, carers, parents and students
- Contact a GP and order repeat prescriptions online
- Renting: guidance for tenants, landlords and local authorities
Information for Cypriot nationals
Consular services
The online appointment system for consular services has resumed operation. Members of the public need to pre-book their appointment using the High Commission’s consular appointments system.
Due to the COVID19 pandemic, compliance with all relevant medical protocols is mandatory for ensuring public health safety. There will also be a limited operation at the Consulate General and, therefore, limited appointment availability. This will be reviewed regularly.
The Consulate will accept bookings for the following services:
(a) Application for the acquisition of Cypriot citizenship (by British and other third country nationals),
(b) First Issue of Identity Card AND Passport (for both documents following the acquisition of Cypriot citizenship)*,
(c) Renewal of ID Card OR Passport OR Issuance of Emergency Travel Document (for Cypriot nationals only and for one of these documents only)*,
(d) Legalization of Signature / Power of Attorney.
* Note that for those who want to renew BOTH their existing ID and Passport, they should book an appointment under Category B΄.
* Note that for renewing your ID and/or Passport you must have with you your expired ID card or to know its number or your Certificate of Registration of Cypriot citizenship.
For further services not covered above (emergency travel document, permanent residency letter for military purposes, visas for third country nationals), email [email protected] explaining your situation.
Appointment health and safety protocol:
- Wear a face covering
- Follow social distancing rules
- Use hand sanitiser
- Only persons who have a confirmed appointment will be admitted (Any friends or family members will need to remain outside the premises of the High Commission. Only underage children or persons with serious medical conditions will be exempted.)
- The Consulate’s reception room can accept only a limited number of people at any given time
- Please sit at the designated seats available
Entry into the Republic of Cyprus
The Republic of Cyprus classifies the UK as ‘Category B’ as of 1st August. Travellers wishing to fly to the Republic of Cyprus from the UK are required to obtain a CyprusFlightPass. As part of obtaining the CyprusFlightPass, all passengers are required to upload proof of a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours of the flight departure time. The test should clearly indicate the date and time the test was conducted.
If passengers have taken a COVID-19 test through the NHS, they must upload both the test result and the “Test Site Pass” (appointment confirmation), in a single document (pdf, jpeg). In addition to obtaining the CyprusFlightPass, passengers are required to have paper or electronic versions of both documents
Registration of Cypriot nationals abroad
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus has announced that Cypriot nationals that are abroad should register on their new online platform: www.connect2cy.gov.cy
This platform will help the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to provide Cypriot nationals abroad with the latest important information and help them ensure that services are provided to those in need.
More information and technical support is available through the National Crisis Management Center: +357 22 801000.
Useful links
- The Press and Information Office of Cyprus (PIO) has the latest announcements: www.pio.gov.cy
- The Ministry of Foreign Affairs website has the latest travel advice www.mfa.gov.cy.
Local information, initiatives and support
If you cannot find the appropriate contact details above, get in touch with us by email at [email protected]
Local initiatives and support
“The decisions we all make on a daily basis over the coming weeks will change the course of this pandemic and save lives. Be vigilant, be considerate and be responsible.” Article from NEPOMAK: www.nepomak.org/covid19
Please visit the following websites for more information on local initiatives, charities, volunteering opportunities and support:
Barnet
Enfield
Haringey
Birmingham
Manchester
Updated on 21 September 2020