Since the partial opening of the Green Line in 2003, several crossing points between North and South Cyprus have been opened to travellers. EU citizens and nationals of visa-exempt countries can cross with a valid passport, while EU citizens can also use their national ID cards.
However, Turkish passport holders and other nationalities subject to visa requirements cannot cross freely and must possess a valid visa issued by the Republic of Cyprus. Furthermore, if you entered the island through the North (e.g., Ercan Airport or northern ports), authorities in the South consider this an illegal entry and will deny you crossing at the Green Line.
Always carry your original passport — photocopies are not accepted. Crossings are generally quick (5–20 minutes) during off-peak hours.
All Open Crossing Points
There are currently 9 active crossing checkpoints along the UN buffer zone (Green Line) in Cyprus. All of them are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
The busiest and most recommended vehicle crossing. Located on the main Nicosia bypass highway — the primary route for tourists driving from Larnaca or Paphos airports into the North. Wide lanes, fast processing, open 24/7. If you're arriving by car or private transfer, this is the checkpoint you'll use.
Pedestrian only. Located right in the heart of Nicosia's old city shopping district. Park your car on the South side and walk across in 2–5 minutes. Puts you immediately into the historic Arabahmet and Arasta bazaar districts of North Nicosia.
Located near the historic Ledra Palace Hotel in central Nicosia (now used by the UN). While technically a road, regular tourists cannot drive rental cars here — vehicle access is restricted to diplomats, UN personnel, and authorised taxis. Popular for pedestrians wanting a quieter walk into the old city than Ledra Street.
Located west of Nicosia. A great alternative for drivers wanting to bypass central Nicosia traffic when travelling between the Troodos Mountains / Paphos region and the northwestern part of North Cyprus.
Located on the east coast. Provides the fastest and most direct route for visitors travelling between Ayia Napa/Protaras and the historic city of Famagusta (Gazimağusa) and the recently reopened ghost town area of Varosha (Maraş).
Located in the east-central part of the island, passing through the British Sovereign Base Area (Dhekelia). Generally quiet and highly efficient for drivers heading to Famagusta (Gazimağusa) and the Salamis Ruins.
Another eastern checkpoint passing through the British Sovereign Base Area. Situated very close to Famagusta city, offering short waiting times due to low traffic volumes.
A scenic coastal crossing in the far northwest. Connects the Tillyria enclave (Kato Pyrgos) to the rest of South Cyprus via the North, cutting down travel time significantly for coastal travellers coming from the Paphos or Polis region.
Opened in 2018, this mountainous checkpoint connects the Lefka area in the North with the rural mountain valleys of the South. Ideal for eco-tourists and hikers exploring the Troodos mountain foothills and the Lefke region.
Quick Comparison Table
All 9 crossing points at a glance:
| # | Crossing Point | Location | Vehicle | Pedestrian | Open 24/7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Metehan / Agios Dometios | Nicosia (Main Highway) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 2 | Ledra Street / Lokmacı | Nicosia City Centre | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3 | Ledra Palace | Central Nicosia | ✗ (diplomats only) | ✓ | ✓ |
| 4 | Astromeritis / Bostancı | West of Nicosia | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 5 | Dherynia / Derinya | East Coast (Famagusta) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 6 | Pergamos / Beyarmudu | East (British Base Area) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 7 | Strovilia / Akyar | East (near Famagusta) | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 8 | Limnitis / Yeşilırmak | Northwest Coast | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 9 | Lefka / Apliki (Apliç) | Northwest Mountains | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Essential Crossing Tips
Before you cross, make sure you're prepared:
Crucial Entry Rule
If you are a non-EU citizen requiring a visa for South Cyprus (such as a Turkish passport holder), you cannot cross the Green Line if you originally entered the island via the North (Ercan Airport or northern ports). The Republic of Cyprus considers this an illegal entry point.
Bring Your Original Passport
All travellers need a valid passport (or EU national ID card for EU citizens). Photocopies are strictly rejected. North Cyprus authorities no longer stamp physical passports — your document is simply scanned digitally.
Vehicle Insurance
Standard South Cyprus car rental insurance does not cover North Cyprus. You must purchase separate third-party insurance at the border insurance booths — available 24/7 at main vehicle checkpoints like Metehan. Consider renting directly in the North instead!
Best Times to Cross
Avoid 08:00–10:00 and 17:00–19:00 on weekdays (commuter rush). Mid-morning and early afternoon are usually the fastest. Weekends can be busy with day-trippers at Ledra Street and Metehan.
Currency
South Cyprus uses the Euro (€). North Cyprus uses the Turkish Lira (₺), but many places also accept GBP and EUR. Exchange bureaux are available just after crossing at the main checkpoints.
Mobile Phones & Data Roaming
EU data roaming does not automatically apply in North Cyprus. Switch off data roaming before crossing to avoid heavy charges, or buy a local tourist SIM card (North Cyprus Turkcell or Telsim) on arrival.
Need a Transfer from Larnaca or Paphos?
We pick you up from the airport in South Cyprus, handle the border crossing with you, and drop you off at your hotel or address in the North. Comfortable, stress-free, door-to-door.