Cyprus on Track to Join US Visa Waiver Program by 2025

Cyprus is making significant strides toward joining the US Visa Waiver Program, moving one step closer to visa-free travel to the United States. This milestone follows the country’s efforts in addressing key security requirements, particularly in combating serious crime, which is essential for eligibility in the program.

A Cypriot Foreign Ministry official recently briefed the Parliamentary Committee on Foreign and European Affairs, highlighting the progress. While a few technical issues remain, the final report is expected to be submitted to the US State Department and Congress in the near future.

Despite the advancements, there were concerns about meeting the program’s strict data exchange requirements. Cypriot officials were initially wary of the potential implications for national privacy. However, a police representative reassured that complying with this condition does not grant the US unrestricted access to Cyprus’ sensitive databases. Instead, the arrangement ensures that Cypriot confidentiality remains intact while meeting the program's requirements.

A 2025 Goal for Visa-Free Travel

The Cypriot government has set an ambitious timeline, with hopes that citizens will be travelling to the US without the need for a visa by the end of 2024 or early 2025. Government spokesperson Konstantinos Letymbiotis stated that visa-free travel could soon become a reality for Cypriot nationals, a long-standing goal of the country.

When Cyprus officially joins the program, Cypriots will no longer need to apply for a visa to visit the US, enjoying smoother entry under the same terms as travellers from other participating countries.

Following in the Footsteps of Romania and Bulgaria

Cyprus has been committed to achieving this goal for years, with fellow EU nations Romania and Bulgaria also working toward joining the program. In recent developments, Romanian authorities announced that the country had successfully met all the necessary requirements, paving the way for visa-free travel to the US for Romanian citizens.

Rising Interest in US Travel

The US is becoming an increasingly popular destination for Cypriot nationals. In 2023, the Bureau of Consular Affairs at the US Department of State issued 5,537 visas to Cypriots, marking a remarkable 50.4% increase from the 3,681 visas granted in 2022.

This surge reflects the growing interest of Cypriot travellers in the US, especially as international travel picks up post-pandemic.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, visa issuances hit a record low, with travel restrictions severely limiting movement. However, the rebound in visa applications signals a renewed interest in US travel among Cypriots.

To qualify for the US Visa Waiver Program, countries must meet several criteria, including maintaining a visa rejection rate below 3%. This particular requirement has been a hurdle for some nations, such as Romania, but Cyprus remains hopeful of meeting all conditions in the coming months.

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