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There was a time, particularly in the 1970s and 1980s, when Cyprus served as a “haven of peace” for Lebanese escaping the horrors of war. Simply arriving in Cyprus, typically Larnaca, was enough to obtain a visa and enjoy the island’s “small pleasures.”
As the Israeli war intensifies on Lebanese territory, old fears are being revived, prompting many Lebanese to pack up and leave the country once again. Some are choosing Cyprus as their destination, just as they did before. Even before the recent escalation, another crisis had driven the Lebanese to flee: the country’s economic collapse. Hundreds have attempted the sea crossing from Tripoli in northern Lebanon to Cyprus. Their fate was often tragically predictable: either drowning at sea or being turned back by Cypriot authorities.
Will the wealthy be greeted more favorably this time?
Alternatives and restrictions
Since 2019, the ongoing crises in Lebanon have made it harder to enter Europe, even with a valid tourist visa. In this climate of increasing restrictions, are there alternative options like yacht travel, and what specific rules apply to tourist visa holders in times of conflict?
As tensions rise in Lebanon, foreign travelers are rushing to the airport in search of flights. With many cancellations and delays, an alternative has surfaced: private yachts departing from Dbayeh Marina, bound for Ayia Napa in Cyprus.
Captain Elias Khawand, who typically operates yachts for cruises to Cyprus, has recently begun accommodating travelers eager to leave Lebanon. However, this option is out of reach for many Lebanese.
According to Khawand, “Despite the long-standing relationship between Lebanon and the neighboring island, dating back to the Civil War, a visa is still required to enter Cyprus. Anyone without a visa will be immediately turned away by border security upon arrival.”
Cyprus has long been a refuge for the Lebanese during times of conflict. In the past, they would travel to the island by boat or plane to escape the unrest, staying until the war ended, with only a valid passport required. Many also took advantage of their time in Cyprus to apply for immigration visas at local embassies, enabling them to continue their journey to other destinations. But today, the entry requirements have changed.
“Before Cyprus became a European Union (EU) member, Lebanese citizens could get a visa upon arrival,” explains Khawand. “Now, border controls require either a visa issued by the Cypriot embassy or a Schengen visa for entry.” Khawand also shares the experiences of those who have tried to stay in Cyprus without a visa. He says, “Anyone arriving on Cyprus’ shores without a visa, residency or permit is not allowed through security checks. They are either sent back to their home country or must stay on board under the watch of border guards until the ship departs the next day.”
Tightening entry controls in Europe
European airports have grown increasingly strict about allowing Lebanese nationals into EU countries, driven by rising migration flows and extended stays. While border agents have traditionally required a return ticket, proof of accommodation and insurance, these demands are now being enforced with greater rigor, even when passports and visas are valid.
Uniform border control measures for sea and air travel
Currently, with the situation remaining stable at Beirut International Airport, entering Cyprus by sea is the same as traveling by air and does not require any additional documents or justifications.
In a statement to This is Beirut, a source from the Cypriot embassy in Lebanon explains, “The security measures enforced at the borders for travelers arriving at the international airports of Paphos and Larnaca are also implemented by maritime authorities.” This includes passport checks and luggage inspections for those arriving by boat, as confirmed by the same source.
Despite the ongoing conflicts, anyone with a visa issued by the embassy is entitled to enter Cyprus, whether by sea or air, according to the Cypriot embassy. “However, it’s vital to adhere to the visa conditions, including the permitted duration of stay, and to avoid overstaying without following the proper legal procedures,” the source adds. “During times of conflict, compliance with the guidelines set by European and Cypriot immigration authorities is essential.”
Challenges of accessing Cyprus
These challenges affect not only those trying to escape the war but also individuals who own property in Cyprus. Even with a Lebanese passport, they encounter difficulties when opening bank accounts, securing permanent residency, or transferring money between the two countries. Andreas, a real estate agent in Cyprus, explains, “In the past, purchasing a home in Cyprus was much simpler. While it is still possible, the procedures and requirements for proof of funds have become increasingly complicated for third-country nationals. This is also true for opening bank accounts, especially in light of the banking collapse in Lebanon.”
