Cypriots May Travel to the U.S. Visa-Free Starting in 2025
Key Takeaways
1. Cypriot authorities suggest a strong likelihood of joining the U.S. Visa Waiver Program in 2025.
2. Officials report Cyprus is close to meeting the visa rejection rate threshold for program eligibility.
3. The U.S. and Cyprus are committed to advancing security and educational collaborations.
Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides announced that Cyprus is "very close" to joining the U.S. Visa Waiver Program, potentially enabling visa-free travel to the United States for Cypriots by 2025.
U.S. and Cypriot representatives recently met to discuss this possibility, indicating that visa-free access for Cypriots is highly probable by 2025. The discussions took place during a meeting between Cypriot officials and the U.S. Assistant Secretary, covering potential agreements on investment and law enforcement.
Cyprus Nears Requirements for Visa-Free U.S. Travel
The U.S. requires Cyprus to reduce its visa application rejection rate to below three percent to qualify for the Visa Waiver Program. Cypriot government spokesman Konstantinos Letymbiotis reported that Cyprus nearly met this target last year and aims to reach it fully in 2024.
“There is still an agreement to be signed, and we hope this will happen soon. We will meet all obligations. The three percent threshold is challenging, but we are optimistic,” – Konstantinos Letymbiotis, Government Spokesman
Once requirements are met, Cyprus would become the 42nd country in the U.S. visa-free program and the 25th EU member state with access to this privilege.
According to U.S. Department of State data, in 2023, the U.S. granted 5,537 visas to Cypriot applicants, marking a 50.4 percent increase from the previous year.
U.S. and Cyprus Strengthen Cooperation Across Multiple Areas
The Visa Waiver Program was a primary focus of the recent meeting, alongside a shared commitment to deepening the bilateral relationship.
“There are enormous opportunities to elevate our bilateral relationship, and it’s on us to turn these opportunities into concrete achievements.” – Minister Kombos
Enhanced cooperation agreements with the U.S. could bring Cyprus additional funding, bolster law enforcement partnerships, and offer new avenues in research, technology, and education, including an expanded Fulbright program.