Deputy Minister claims 90 % drop in irregular migration as Cyprus implements EU Pact
Cyprus says migration arrivals have fallen 90 % after new EU Pact takes effect
AmCham urges inclusion of Cyprus in U.S. Visa Waiver Program and new direct flights
Latest News
Wizz Air expands Larnaca base with new Madrid link and restored Athens, Abu Dhabi services
Wizz Air will launch Larnaca–Madrid flights, double its Athens service and revive Abu Dhabi this winter, widening affordable connectivity for business and leisure travellers. The expansion supports Cyprus’ strategy to reduce seasonality and enhances European and Middle-Eastern links critical to corporate mobility.
Italy-Cyprus Maritime Business Forum spotlights green ports and talent mobility
At a forum in Limassol on 9 October, Italian and Cypriot maritime leaders mapped out cooperation on green ports, shipbuilding and the IMEC trade corridor. Proposals include mutual recognition of seafarer certificates and visa facilitation for specialised crews—steps that could enhance Cyprus’ role as a shipping and expatriate hub.
AmCham Cyprus Pushes for U.S. Visa-Waiver Admission and Non-stop Flights
AmCham Cyprus wants Cyprus admitted to the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, direct flights to the United States, and a modernised tax and social-security framework. The Chamber says Cyprus already meets the VWP visa-refusal threshold and has upgraded security systems, arguing that visa-free travel and non-stop air links would boost trade, investment and talent flows. The proposals signal growing business pressure for the two governments to deepen mobility ties.
MED9 Summit Endorses Cyprus’ Fast-Track Entry to Schengen
The MED9 group of Mediterranean EU states publicly backed Cyprus’ bid to enter the passport-free Schengen zone, calling on the Council of the EU to move quickly now that technical evaluations are positive. Business travellers and exporters would gain friction-free access to 27 European markets, while Brussels sees a security dividend on the bloc’s south-eastern flank.
Security Breach at Larnaca: Passenger Evades Final Boarding Check
A woman not listed on the manifest was discovered on a Larnaca–Tel Aviv flight, forcing authorities to disembark her and launch a security investigation. Although no malicious intent is suspected, the incident spotlights last-gate vulnerabilities just as Cyprus seeks enhanced mobility credentials such as Schengen entry and U.S. pre-clearance.
Temporary airspace restrictions over Dhekelia could affect business aviation through 22 October
NOTAM A0996/26 establishes a temporary no-fly zone over Dhekelia on selected dates between 5 and 22 October, potentially rerouting business jets and helicopters approaching Larnaca. Commercial airline schedules remain intact, but corporate flight departments should file plans early and build in buffer time for short tactical diversions.