Banks in Cyprus will be closed on October 1. It is worth planning your visit in advance.

All banks operating in the Republic of Cyprus will be closed on Thursday, October 1, 2026The reason is Cyprus Independence Day, which is a public holiday and a day off from work.

The Central Bank of Cyprus has announced the closure of its branches. Those who need to attend to a matter requiring a visit to a branch should do so no later than Wednesday, September 30th. Banks in Cyprus will reopen on Friday, October 2nd.

Banks in Cyprus closed on October 1

On Thursday, standard service will not be available at bank branches. Cashiers and advisory desks will remain closed.

It is worth planning in advance, among other things:

• withdrawing a larger amount of cash at the cash register,
• cash deposit requiring the assistance of an employee,
• collection of card or documents,
• signing the contract,
• placing an order at the branch,
• meeting with an advisor,
• settling matters related to a loan or a company account.

Businesses that accept a large number of cash payments should note that they will not process standard cash deposits on October 1st. Cash deposit machines, if available, should operate normally, but processing of funds may depend on the specific institution's policies.

Cards, ATMs and apps should work

Bank closures primarily affect brick-and-mortar branches. Customers should still have access to ATMs, payment cards, mobile apps, and online banking, unless a specific bank has previously announced technical maintenance.

Through the app you will still be able to, among other things:

• check your account balance and history,
• make a transfer,
• pay the bills,
• manage your card,
• change payment limits,
• block a lost card.

However, simply submitting a transfer order doesn't mean the money will be immediately credited to the recipient's account. The time it takes for a standard transfer to be credited may depend on the bank, the time it was placed, and the settlement system used.

Instant transfers should also be available on public holidays if both banks support this service. Before making an urgent payment, it's worth checking transfer availability and applicable limits.

Why does Cyprus celebrate on October 1?

October 1st is one of the most important public holidays in the Republic of Cyprus. It commemorates the country's independence from Great Britain in 1960.

The Republic of Cyprus formally gained independence August 16, 1960However, the main national celebrations were moved to October 1, partly due to less oppressive weather conditions than in the middle of the Cypriot summer.

A military parade is held in Nicosia on this day, with the participation of government officials. Celebrations also take place in other parts of the island.

It's not just banks that will be closed

Independence Day is a public holiday. In addition to banks, government offices, schools, and some private businesses and service outlets will be closed.

Restaurants, cafes, shops, and shopping malls may operate on individual hours. So, don't assume that all retail establishments will be closed, but it's worth checking the information provided by the specific business before traveling.

Those planning to visit a bank or government office should factor the holiday into their plans. It's best to handle matters requiring in-person attendance by Wednesday, September 30, or postpone them until Friday, October 2.

Sources: Central Bank of Cyprus, Bank of Cyprus, Cyprus Mail.