What's the government response timeline for Cyprus?

Quote: Moving to give hard-pressed tenants a temporary respite, the Council of Ministers on Thursday approved a bill suspending evictions until May 31 for non-payment of rent. The bill will cover non-payment of rent after March 1. https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/coronavirus-freeze-on-evictions-for-non-payment-of-rent-until-may-31/

Date for start of information campaigns is unavailable. From this link, it could be gathered that the information campaign began from March 5: http://www.ucy.ac.cy/hr/en/covid-19-action-plan#Q-A List of Public information campaigns: https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/info.html

Travel advice regarding the coronavirus outbreak was first reported by the Foreign Ministry on 10 March 2020. Cyprus reports first two coronavirus cases on 9 March 2020. Country Measures related to the 2019 NCoV outbreak were released on 9 March 2020. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press.html https://uk.reuters.com/article/us-health-coronavirus-cyprus/cyprus-reports-first-two-coronavirus-cases-including-health-professional-idUKKBN20W2BQ https://www.iata.org/contentassets/269b335aa481479fba4ed61d27b0885b/cyprus-ncov-measures.pdf

Government banned all public gatherings of more than 75 people until March 31: https://www.garda.com/crisis24/news-alerts/321591/cyprus-government-bans-public-gatherings-and-extends-checkpoint-closures-march-10-update-1

Notification: https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/13032020_3.pdf As covered by media: https://in-cyprus.philenews.com/coronavirus-all-schools-in-cyprus-to-close-for-one-week/

Entry granted to those who submit a medical certificate that they have been tested for coronavirus by certified medical centers from their country of origin. Those who fulfil these conditions will be placed under a 14-day compulsory quarantine https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/15032020_3en.pdf

From 15 March, UK nationals (and other non-Cypriots) are not permitted to enter the Republic of Cyprus for tourism while a state of emergency is in force. Cypriot nationals and other legal residents will only be allowed to enter the Republic for urgent medical needs or repatriation of the most vulnerable. Further advice can be obtained from Cyprus’ High Commissions, Consulates or Embassies abroad. Individuals falling into the above categories will be expected to obtain a certificate from Cyprus’ diplomatic missions abroad in order to gain permission to travel and will be subject to 14 days’ quarantine in a state facility on arrival. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/cyprus/coronavirus

Private sector closure: https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/15032020_3en.pdf

only households living together may gather, otherwise gatherings are prohibited. https://archive.vn/wip/TELpU

https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/pro2.pdf Recommendation for laboratory testing for COVID-19: Patients with acute respiratory infection referred by Public Health Practice, 1420 or from A&E Dept and has at least one of the following conditions: Underlying diseases such as cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, severe immunosuppression (malignancy under chemotherapy), rheumatological/ neurological/other immunosuppressive conditions taking medication such as corticosteroids and immunomodulators, immunodeficiency or diabetes (type 1) Newly transpired confusion or communication level disorder Need for exogenous oxygen supply (SpO2<93%) Severe tachypnoea (breaths >30/min) Severe respiratory distress / ARDS Sepsis (organic damage)/ Septic shock 2 of the following 3 criteria must be met for laboratory testing of a hospitalised patient: Patient presenting with new respiratory infection symptoms (eg. Fever, cough, shortness of breath) during hospitalisation without any apparent reason (eg. Aspiration, hospital pneumonia) Radiology image that supports COVID-19 diagnosis: bilateral infiltration without pleuritic fluid collection Contact with confirmed COVID-119 case or travel history within last 14 days

Public transport facilities not available for individuals that do not possess authorisation to step outside their house http://www.mcw.gov.cy/mcw/mcw.nsf/All/C5A57099D1BB0011C225853600274E86?OpenDocument

nationwide lockdown allowing residents to leave home only once per day for food/pharmacy, etc. https://archive.vn/wip/O4FYf

Recommendation for laboratory testing for COVID-19: Patients with acute respiratory infection referred by Public Health Practice, 1420 or from A&E Dept and has at least one of the following conditions: Underlying diseases such as cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, severe immunosuppression (malignancy under chemotherapy), rheumatological/ neurological/other immunosuppressive conditions taking medication such as corticosteroids and immunomodulators, immunodeficiency or diabetes (type 1) Newly transpired confusion or communication level disorder Need for exogenous oxygen supply (SpO2<93%) Severe tachypnoea (breaths >30/min) Severe respiratory distress / ARDS Sepsis (organic damage)/ Septic shock 2 of the following 3 criteria must be met for laboratory testing of a hospitalised patient: Patient presenting with new respiratory infection symptoms (eg. Fever, cough, shortness of breath) during hospitalisation without any apparent reason (eg. Aspiration, hospital pneumonia) Radiology image that supports COVID-19 diagnosis: bilateral infiltration without pleuritic fluid collection Contact with confirmed COVID-119 case or travel history within last 14 days

In a news article dated 16 March, it is stated that "As part of its coronavirus response, the Cyprus government has also banned indoor events of over 75 people and other mass events" - https://www.independent.co.uk/travel/news-and-advice/cyprus-travel-advice-coronavirus-uk-foreign-office-holiday-latest-a9393476.html

On March 30, the lockdown was extended to end April https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-04-cyprus-coronavirus-lockdown-end-april.html

Lockdown extended until end of April https://medicalxpress.com/news/2020-04-cyprus-coronavirus-lockdown-end-april.html

Eligible to get tested are people who work in the public and wider public sector and the local government with priority being given to those who serve the public. It also includes the National Guard, police and fire service. https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/04/11/coronavirus-testing-begins-on-20000-workers-who-serve-the-public/ https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/04/11/coronavirus-testing-begins-on-20000-workers-who-serve-the-public/

schools closed at least until 30th April. https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/

As part of lockdown measures, most businesses were closed, exceptions including grocery stores, pharmacies, medical equipment providers, gas stations, funeral homes, nurseries, florists etc. https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/03/24/coronavirus-new-decree-lays-out-which-retailers-exempt-from-closure/

Public transport limited to people with permits. https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/03/24/coronavirus-new-decree-lays-out-which-retailers-exempt-from-closure/

internal movement is restricted and any movements require approval by authorities. https://cyprus-mail.com/2020/03/24/coronavirus-want-to-go-outside-for-non-work-reasons-ask-the-authorities-via-sms-update-1/

Comprehensive testing https://www.financialmirror.com/2020/04/22/covid19-cyprus-fighting-the-virus-through-contact-tracing/

Ban on all public gatherings outside of households that live together https://archive.vn/TELpU

Officials are enforcing a no public gatherings ban https://archive.vn/wip/sW0wL https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://archive.vn/TELpU

https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://archive.vn/TELpU

President announced that as of May 4th the following sectors are open again: the wider public sector with the return of all the employees at their work; construction sector and related businesses; All businesses in retail except commercial centres and big department stores; Flee markets, street vendors and bazaars; Tourist offices and tourist agents; restrictions will be partially lifted in the context of normalising operation of public and private hospitals; the exercise of religion will be permitted in churches, mosques and other places of worship, provided that there are no more than 10 persons present; the use of open space athletic installations will be open to high performance athletes who are included in the records of the Cyprus Olympic Committee. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/30042020_1.pdf

Primary schools and the first three grades of high school will be open as from 21/05/2020. The 1st and 2nd grades of Lyceum, nurseries, kindergartens and playschools will remain closed. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/19052020_13.pdf https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/26052020_11.pdf https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/

Government decree of 20 May 2020 announced the second phase of reopening of Cyprus as of 21 May 2020 including: Reopening of hairdressing salons, barber shops, beauty centres and tattooing studios, subject to the guidelines of the Minister of Health; Reopening of catering services only in open external areas, and only with the use of tables and chairs. It is clarified that an “open external area” has the meaning assigned to it by the Health Protection (Smoking Control) Law. The persons gathered shall not exceed 10 per group; Individual or group exercise is allowed in open air spaces, provided they shall not exceed 10 persons and the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and the Cyprus Sports Organization are observed. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/measuresx.pdf

Government decree of 20 May 2020 announced the second phase of reopening of Cyprus as of 21 May 2020 including: Gatherings in houses are permitted, given that they do not exceed 10 persons, inclusive of any minors; Free movement in parks (except playgrounds), squares, water dams, picnic sites, marinas etc. is permitted, provided that the gatherings do not exceed 10 persons per group, inclusive of any minors. Reopening of catering services only in open external areas, and only with the use of tables and chairs. It is clarified that an “open external area” has the meaning assigned to it by the Health Protection (Smoking Control) Law. The persons gathered shall not exceed 10 per group. Individual or group exercise is allowed in open air spaces, provided they shall not exceed 10 persons and the guidelines of the Ministry of Health and the Cyprus Sports Organization are observed. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/measuresx.pdf

Government decree of 20 May 2020 announced the second phase of reopening of Cyprus as of 21 May 2020 including the abolition of the ban on free movement between 10 p.m. – 6 a.m. Gatherings now permitted up to 10 persons, including free movements in parks, picnic sights, going to the hairdresser, group exercises, outside cafes and restaurants, etc. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/measuresx.pdf

President of Cyprus announced that as of May 21 all restrictions of the movement of citizens are lifted. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/30042020_1.pdf

The House of Representatives on May 22nd approved two government bills in the context of the plan for support of the economy. The first bill has to do with incentives for rent reduction by granting tax credit equal to 50% of the reduction in rent, in the case where the landlord provides a rent reduction for a period of up to three months in 2020. In order for one to become eligible for the credit, the rent reduction offered should be between 30% and 50%. In this way, the tenant is benefited and an important incentive is given to the landlord to grant the reduction, while half the reduction amount is distributed among the taxpayers. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/22052020_21.pdf

Government decree of 20 May 2020 announced the second phase of reopening of Cyprus including allowing: Attending church services and other forms of religious worship in churches, mosques and other religious premises, is permitted, provided that the protocols of hygienic behaviour are upheld, as the Health Ministry may determine. The same measures shall apply for weddings, christenings and funerals; Reopening of beaches, including organised ones, in compliance with hygienic protocols to be issued by the Ministry of Health; Reopening of betting shops, on the basis of specific protocols to be issued by the Ministry of Health. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/19052020_13.pdf

Government decree of 20 May 2020 announced the second phase of reopening of Cyprus including allowing: Attending church services and other forms of religious worship in churches, mosques and other religious premises, is permitted, provided that the protocols of hygienic behaviour are upheld, as the Health Ministry may determine. The same measures shall apply for weddings, christenings and funerals; Reopening of beaches, including organised ones, in compliance with hygienic protocols to be issued by the Ministry of Health; Reopening of betting shops, on the basis of specific protocols to be issued by the Ministry of Health. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/19052020_13.pdf

Presidential announcement: as part of the phased reopening of Cyprus, on June 1st the following are 'open' again: church services and other forms of religious worship in churches, mosques and other places of worship are permitted (the same measures are valid for weddings, christenings, and funerals); organised beaches; ports including disembarkation of cruise ship passengers; Public libraries, museums, archaeological, and historical sites; Betting shops. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/30042020_1.pdf

As part of phase 3 of reopening Cyprus, on June 1, museums, Archaeological Sites and Ancient Monuments re-opened. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=13994 https://knews.kathimerini.com.cy/en/news/the-four-phases-of-cyprus-lockdown-exit-roadmap

The Council of Ministers, in the context of the strategy for the gradual lifting of restrictions measures announced that on 5 June swimming pools are being reopened to the public. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067

The Council of Ministers, in the context of the strategy for the gradual lifting of restrictions measures announced that on 5 June swimming pools are being reopened to the public. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067

The government announced the lifting of all internal movements as of 21 May 2020 however the final lifting occurred on 6 June 2020 when the government announced they would allow the movement from and to the areas controlled by the Republic of Cyprus. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/5062020_11.pdf

The 3rd phase of reopening Cyprus started on 9 June. The following were opened on 9 June: kindergartens and nurseries, children’s clubs, outdoor children’s playgrounds, all-day and summer schools with refectories. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067

The 3rd phase of reopening Cyprus started on 9 June. The following were re-opened on 9 june: malls, airports and ports, indoor catering services, indoor hotels, open-air theatres and open-air cinemas, sports championships without spectators, kindergartens and nurseries, children’s clubs, outdoor children’s playgrounds, all-day and summer schools with refectories. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067

The 3rd phase of reopening Cyprus started on 9 June including open-air theatres and open-air cinemas. However other mass events such as congregations, demonstrations, parades, concerts in public and private places, open-air fairs and festivals remained banned. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067

The 3rd phase of reopening Cyprus started on 9 June. The following were re-opened on 9 june: malls, airports and ports, indoor catering services, indoor hotels, open-air theatres and open-air cinemas, sports championships without spectators, kindergartens and nurseries, children’s clubs, outdoor children’s playgrounds, all-day and summer schools with refectories. Music, dancing and entertainment venues remain closed. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067

Following a decision by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works, as of 9 June, public transport (Cyprus only has buses and taxis) can ride with 100% fully capacity inside the buses. Since March the buses were only allowed to carry maximum 30% capacity (increased to 50% in May). The wearing of masks is obligatory. https://www.intercity-buses.com/?wp=news-details&id=1C88B7DCABFD13B13AE1D1FBDA910967&id=1C88B7DCABFD13B13AE1D1FBDA910967

The 3rd phase of reopening Cyprus started on 9 June. This included the re-opening of airports and ports. Flights to and from a 13 countries have resumed with flights to and from an additional 6 countries to resume as of 20 june. If persons test positive for Coronavirus after visiting, the Cypriot government will reimburse the travel costs. Initially all travellers will need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test undertaken within 72 hours of travel, but from June 20, only those arriving from six countries in the second category, such as Poland and Romania, will need to do so. https://www.schengenvisainfo.com/news/cyprus-to-reopen-its-borders-for-several-eu-schengen-nationals-in-two-phases/ https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14067 http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2020-06/04/c_139111920.htm

Government press release: As of 20 June 2020, passengers coming from Category A countries ('low risk' countries) will not be required to present a laboratory test certificate upon entry into Cyprus. Passengers coming from Category B countries (Countries with possibly low risk but greater uncertainty compared to Category A) will be required to have undertaken a laboratory test by a recognized laboratory at least during the last 72 hours prior to departure and to possess a Certificate showing negative PCR of COVID-19 in order to enter Cyprus. Sample laboratory testing will be carried out on the passengers of all arriving flights, with the number of those tested being estimated at 300 persons per day. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14341

The 4th and final phase of reopening of Cyprus started on June 24th (now labelled as an extension of the 3rd phase). This phase was initially scheduled to start on July 14th however positive epidemiological data brought this date forward. As of June 24th the remaining sectors of society were reopened: indoor theaters and cinemas, festivals and Concerts, playgrounds indoors and outdoors. Mass gatherings are now allowed up to 75 people in indoor spaces and 150 people in outdoor spaces. This includes mass gatherings for music concerts and festivals, weddings, christenings, private assemblies in houses and any other form of mass gathering. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/measuresx.pdf https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/en/article/ygeia/cyprus-enters-third-phase-relaxation-covid-19-measures

The 4th and final phase of reopening of Cyprus started on June 24th (now labelled as an extension of the 3rd phase). This phase was initially scheduled to start on July 14th however positive epidemiological data brought this date forward. As of June 24th the remaining sectors of society were reopened: indoor theaters and cinemas, festivals and Concerts, playgrounds indoors and outdoors. Mass gatherings are now allowed up to 75 people in indoor spaces and 150 people in outdoor spaces. This includes mass gatherings for music concerts and festivals, weddings, christenings, private assemblies in houses and any other form of mass gathering. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/measuresx.pdf https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/en/article/ygeia/cyprus-enters-third-phase-relaxation-covid-19-measures

The 4th and final phase of reopening of Cyprus started on June 24th (now labelled as an extension of the 3rd phase). This phase was initially scheduled to start on July 14th however positive epidemiological data brought this date forward. As of June 24th the remaining sectors of society were reopened: indoor theaters and cinemas, festivals and Concerts, playgrounds indoors and outdoors. Mass gatherings are now allowed up to 75 people in indoor spaces and 150 people in outdoor spaces. This includes mass gatherings for music concerts and festivals, weddings, christenings, private assemblies in houses and any other form of mass gathering. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/pdf/measuresx.pdf https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.stockwatch.com.cy/en/article/ygeia/cyprus-enters-third-phase-relaxation-covid-19-measures

Given the positive epidemiological picture in Cyprus, the government announced that as of July 1st, the maximum number of persons that can be served in a hotel/restaurant/cafe/canteen (etc.) may not exceed 100 persons indoors and 200 outdoors. 3 square meter social distancing is still in force for indoor spaces and 2 square meter for outdoor spaces. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/2072020_1.pdf

Cyprus government gave an update on 6 July 2020 of the list of countries that they recommend against all travel to/from. No major change. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/7072020_3.pdf

Government Press Release regarding events such as music concerts, festivals, fairs: It is clarified that, although it has been announced that the holding of concerts, festivals, fairs, etc. would be considered after September 1st, no definite decision has been made as to when such events will be allowed to take place. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14672

As of 12 July, due to favourable epidemioligcal data, government press release announces the maximum number of persons allowed to attend social gatherings at home and/or in public places (physical presence in the same premises/installation regardless of indoor and outdoor areas), is increased from 150 to 250 persons for outdoor spaces and from 75 to 100 persons in indoor spaces. The maximum number of persons allowed to be served in catering establishments is increased to 250 in outdoor spaces. As regards indoor spaces, the maximum number remains unchanged at 100 persons. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14672

Minister of Health speech highlights the early (relative to other countries) and widespread testing and tracing policy in Cyprus. The Minister noted the 'aggressive' strategy of actively testing large groups of the population including random sampling, but also testing of front-line workers and healthcare professionals and vulnerable groups. The policy of mass testing remains in place. https://www.pio.gov.cy/en/press-releases-article.html?id=14879

No further changes in policy (last update 12 July 2020). The only aspect that changes almost on a weekly basis is the list of which countries are categorised as 'A, B or C' in terms of requirements for entering into Cyprus. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/index.html https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press.html https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.covid19.cy/

No change in policy.

Policy remains unchanged: Both the Republic of Cyprus and the area administered by Turkish Cypriots (“Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus”) have eased restrictions intended to address the continued outbreak of COVID-19. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/index.html https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press.html https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.covid19.cy/

While the holding of concerts, festivals, fairs, etc. will be considered after September 1st, no definite decision has been made as to when such events will be allowed to take place. In this context, the professionals who are active in the field of organizing concerts/festivals/fairs are urged not to plan any events after September 1st, in anticipation of the final decision which will be taken by the Government, on the basis of guidelines sought from the World Health Organization and ECDC. The organizing and holding of concerts is allowed ONLY in open-air ampitheatres and not in any other open space (e.g. stadiums), provided that the instructions provided in the Protocol for the functioning of open-air amphitheatres are strictly adhered to. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/10072020_2.pdf

Policy remains unchanged https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/index.html https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press.html https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.covid19.cy/

No further changes in policy (last update 12 July 2020). The only aspect that changes almost on a weekly basis is the list of which countries are categorised as 'A, B or C' in terms of requirements for entering into Cyprus. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/index.html https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press.html https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/ https://www.covid19.cy/

Support is still provided (extended by 4 months until mid-October). https://www.sovereigngroup.com/news-and-views/cyprus-introduces-e700-million-covid-19-financial-support-package/

Debt relief continues until December 2020. Under the Emergency Measures by Financial Institutions and Supervisory Authorities Decree of 2020, dated March 30, 2020, all licensed banks in Cyprus are ordered to suspend the collection of loan installments, including interest, until the end of the year, subject to the borrower submitting a written request to this end and no default amounts to have existed, on the relevant loans, over 30 days past due as at 29 February 2020. Under the scheme, the sum of the suspended installments on the principal, as well as the interest for the period in question, will not be immediately due on December 31st 2020, but the loan duration will be suitably extended to accommodate the suspension. Also, The deadline for the payment of the annual levy is extended from 30 June 2020 to 31 December 2020, without the application of the surcharge of 10% or 30%. https://home.kpmg/xx/en/home/insights/2020/04/cyprus-government-and-institution-measures-in-response-to-covid.html https://www.sovereigngroup.com/news-and-views/cyprus-introduces-e700-million-covid-19-financial-support-package/

Policy remains unchanged: Everyone can get tested plus random testing is done and mandatory for some arrivals. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/31072020_16.pdf

Decision announced by the Council of Ministers that the following measures take effect on 22 August 2020 and will be in effect until 15 January 2021: The organizing of fairs, festivals, exhibitions and concerts in places such as stadiums, churchyards, and so forth, is banned. However, the organizing of concerts and theatrical performances at open-air amphitheaters is allowed, provided that the spectators are seated and the relevant Protocol is strictly adhered to as regards distancing, the maximum number of persons, ticket selling, etc https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/21082020_8.pdf

Decision announced by the Council of Ministers that the following measures take effect on 22 August 2020 and will be in effect until 15 January 2021: The maximum number of persons at private gatherings in houses and other mass assembly areas is set at 50. Defined as private gatherings are, for example, private parties, birthday parties, beach parties, etc. The maximum number of persons (physical presence at dinner) who may attend weddings or christenings is set at 350. As regards the well wishing ceremony at a reception, the flow of persons must not exceed 250 per hour. - The maximum number of persons in catering establishments, which are allowed to function on the basis of Decree No. 28, remains the same, that is, 150 persons indoors and 250 persons outdoors. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/21082020_8.pdf

Decision announced by the Council of Ministers that the following measures take effect on 22 August 2020 and will be in effect until 15 January 2021: Laboratory testing will be conducted of 5.000 persons in areas with a large crowding of people (e.g. bars, restaurants, malls, universities, and so forth), to be repeated every two weeks with the aim of recording the epidemiological picture in the community. The first 5.000 tests will target young persons, 18-40 years of age, outside catering establishments, bars, etc., since random tests have shown that most COVID-19 cases detected recently are persons belonging to the specific age group. In addition, the carrying out of random checks is recommended for school workers and students, health professionals and the remaining personnel of public hospitals, as well as for workers and inmates of nursing homes and other indoor shelters, in cooperation with the competent Ministries and Services. Priority will be given to persons returning from holidays and trips, in an effort to minimize the risk of having outbreaks in such places. Finally, people returning from a trip abroad are urged to repeat privately the laboratory examination 7 days after their arrival, even if they have undergone a laboratory test at the airport with a negative result. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/21082020_8.pdf

Latest government press release date Aug 24 2020 announces an updated categorisation of countries within the EEA and beyond based on their epidemiological risk assessment. Depending on the category, visitors from that country may have to show proof of a recent Covid-19 test and self-isolate for 14 days. https://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/en/press/24082020_7.pdf

Policy remains unchanged: there are no movement restrictions internally in Cyprus. https://cy.usembassy.gov/covid-19-information/