A senior Chinese Foreign Ministry official has publicly backed steps to simplify visa procedures for Chinese nationals visiting Cyprus, describing the current process as a barrier that dampens demand. Speaking in Beijing on 22 July, Minister Counsellor Yao Fei told a delegation of Cypriot journalists that streamlining paperwork and reducing appointment wait-times would be “mutually beneficial”, given the spending power of the fast-growing Chinese outbound market. Tourism from China to Cyprus remains modest—fewer than 9,000 arrivals in 2025—but authorities on both sides believe it could grow rapidly if entry requirements are eased. The official revealed that discussions on reciprocal facilitation began after the signing of a 2024 memorandum of understanding on direct air services; market analysis on a potential Beijing–Larnaca route is under way. Yao added that improved Chinese-language signage at archaeological sites and targeted destination marketing would further raise Cyprus’ profile. Nicosia already issues five-year multiple-entry Schengen-style visas for frequent travellers, but Chinese applicants must travel to the embassy in Beijing or consulates in Shanghai and Guangzhou, submit biometrics and wait up to 15 days for approval. Industry groups say the cost—about €160 when service fees are included—puts Cyprus at a disadvantage to visa-free Mediterranean rivals such as Greece. Tour operators welcome Beijing’s openness. “If the visa hurdle falls, we could realistically move from charter experiments to year-round scheduled capacity,” said Yiannis Irakleous, head of the Cyprus Hotel Association’s Asian desk. Airlines are watching load-factor data on seasonal charters that began this summer; if occupancy stays above 75 percent, a scheduled connection in 2027 is “very likely”, a Hermes Airports executive told CBN. For employers, easier access could also boost business travel and bilateral trade. Chinese investment in renewable energy, port logistics and real estate is gathering pace, and consultants say shorter lead times for entry permits would simplify deal-making. Companies arranging incentive trips or training programmes should monitor the talks closely and be ready to adjust travel-policy matrices once facilitation is formally agreed.
Source: Cyprus Business News
