Do I need travel Insurance for Cyprus

With sun, sea, and a fascinating history, the Republic of Cyprus - which covers over half the island, with the other half the disputed territory of Northern Cyprus - is a top destination for many travelers wishing to get away from it all while visiting Europe. With Ancient Greek and medieval ruins, beautiful calm seas, and peaceful villages, Cyprus is a perfect place to combine a relaxing beach holiday with some more educational cultural pursuits.

The first thing you need to know is that although Cyprus began the process of joining the Schengen Area of European countries earlier this year, it is not yet within the passport-free zone, despite the country being an EU member. This means that Cyprus cannot currently issue Schengen Visas. However, Schengen Visa holders can enter, stay or travel through Cyprus without the need for an additional visa. It is covered by AXA’s Europe Travel insurance, however, which covers medical expenses up to €100,000 in Cyprus and other Schengen Area countries. It also allows you to obtain the travel insurance certificate required with your visa application.

What does AXA Schengen travel insurance for Cyprus cover? 

Starting at around $33 per week of your trip, our Europe Travel insurance covers:

● Up to €100,000 coverage in medical expenses

● Medical repatriation & transport

● 24/7 medical assistance in English or French in case of urgency

● Up to 180 days of coverage

● All Schengen and European Union countries as well as the United Kingdom (depending on the chosen insurance)

● Insurance certificate issued immediately and approved by the embassies

● No age limit

● Zero deductible - which will allow you to avoid some upfront and early costs with your claim

Is travel insurance required for Cyprus? 

Travel insurance is mandatory if you are traveling to Cyprus from another country on a Schengen Visa. The national visa requirements are the same as a Schengen Visa - covering you for costs up to €30,000. If you don’t need a visa, travel insurance is optional but strongly recommended as medical costs can be high for foreigners, especially as you will need to pay for any prescriptions.

Do you cover emergency medical costs related to coronavirus? 

We will cover your medical costs related to coronavirus provided you haven't traveled against World Health Organization advice, personal medical advice from your doctor, or any other government body’s advice in your home country or the country you are traveling to. Emergency and additional travel costs are also covered providing you have stuck to this advice.

All issued electronic certificates purchased on the axa-schengen site include this disclaimer: “Medical fees related to COVID-19 are covered in the terms, conditions & exclusions established in the insurance policy”. This will satisfy any embassy rules that state you must get an insurance certificate with Covid protection.

Will AXA travel insurance be accepted with my Cypriot visa application? 

AXA have been leading experts in delivering insurance certificates that meet Schengen countries’ (and those mirroring its rules) requirements to obtain a visa for more than 10 years. All you need to do is print the electronic form of the health insurance certificate and enclose it with your visa application - it’s that easy! Each AXA Schengen insurance certificate is individualized and bears a number that is verifiable on our website. Schengen or Europe travel insurance meets the Cypriot visa criteria.

What are the requirements for travel insurance for my Cyprus visa? 

To obtain a visa to Cyprus your insurance must meet the following criteria:

- Minimum coverage for at least €30,000 in medical expenses

- It should cover any expenses which might arise in connection with repatriation for medical reasons.

I don’t need a visa to visit Cyprus - can I still purchase your insurance to cover my possible health expenses?

Travel insurance is not mandatory for some travelers, but that doesn’t mean you won’t be injured or get ill. A broken wrist or nasty infection can happen to anyone! We thus strongly recommend that you subscribe to our insurance for travelers visiting Europe to make sure your trip is as safe and peaceful as possible. 

What are the main advantages of AXA insurance? 

1. Compliant with European requirements for Schengen Visa. 10 years of existence

2. Immediate coverage. Your insurance covers you from the first day you need it

3. No age restriction, zero deductible

4. No price variation because of nationality

5. Refund if your Schengen Visa application is denied.

Why should you trust us? 

● Medical files processed by AXA Schengen in 2021: 2292

● Medical calls processed by our agents in 2021: 3845

What should I do if I am injured or ill while in Cyprus? 

Don’t worry - AXA’s Schengen insurance is here to guide, help, and protect you. In case of a medical emergency, you must contact the AXA Schengen call center at the number provided on your insurance policy. Medical assistance professionals will answer your questions and advise you 24/7 to help you find the medical center best suited to your situation and the closest to your location.

The following information must be given to the call center:

● The number of your policy, which begins with “SCH”.

● The address and telephone number at which you can be reached and the details of the people that can be contacted locally.

● The dossier number, which is communicated at the time of the first call.

IMPORTANT: Remember to always keep bills/ invoices and enclose them with your file.

What should I know when preparing for my trip to Cyprus? 

Security: Crime against tourists is uncommon. Personal attacks, including sexual assaults, such as date rape, are infrequent but they do occur. Drinks served in bars are often stronger than those in the U.K. - so don’t overdo it. You should also be aware that foreign nationals who have entered Cyprus through the north (such as via Ercan airport) are considered by the Government of the Republic of Cyprus to have entered Cyprus through an illegal port of entry. The Republic of Cyprus does not recognize the self-declared ‘Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus’ in the north of Cyprus, nor are residence permits issued by the administration there. The Government of the Republic of Cyprus may fine you for illegal entry if you cross into the south.

Opening hours: In Cyprus, shops open at around 8 am - 9 am and close at 7 pm during the winter period and at around 8.30 pm during the summer period - when they also often shut in the middle of the day.

Public transport: Cyprus does not have a train or underground transport system. As well as traveling around on foot and by bike, you can also use buses or taxis. 

Driving license: You can drive in Cyprus for up to six months using a valid foreign driving license.

Restaurants: Breakfast is usually served between 7 am and 10 am, lunch is served in restaurants between midday and 3 pm, and dinner is served from 7 pm until late. 

Visa: Although many countries have visa-free travel with Cyprus and the Schengen Area, if you think you do need a visa to Cyprus you can find out more here.