What can be legally brought from the occupied north?

Many visitors to the northern, occupied part of the island wonder what products can legally be brought through checkpoints to the south. While regulations allow some purchases for personal use, restrictions apply to items such as alcohol, cigarettes, food, and the value of purchases.

Purchases only for personal use

Products transported through checkpoints must not be of a commercial nature. The value of purchases transported, other than goods subject to special restrictions, may not exceed 260 euros per person.

This means that larger quantities of the same products may raise questions during inspections, even if single items are permitted.

Alcohol and cigarettes – limits apply

The regulations provide for restrictions on alcohol and tobacco products.

A person over 17 years of age may transport for their own use:

• down 40 cigarettes,
• down 1 liter of spirits.

Exceeding these quantities may mean that goods must be declared or there may be problems during inspection.

What food products can be transported?

Among other things, small quantities of selected food products for personal use are permitted.

The regulations allow, among other things:

• small quantities of agricultural products – up to 3 kg or 3 pieces/bunches,
• selected processed products such as olive oil, halva, jams, table olives and some fruit drinks.

However, not all food products can be transported.

What cannot be imported?

The regulations prohibit, among other things, the transport of:

• meat and animal products,
• milk and dairy products,
• live animals,
• counterfeits that infringe intellectual property rights,
• fuel,
• roll-your-own tobacco and shisha tobacco.

Also prohibited are certain plants, wood and selected agricultural products.

Souvenirs and small purchases

Tourists often bring souvenirs, local food products and small purchases from the north.

The most important rule is simple: the purchase must be private and the quantity must not suggest commercial activity.

Before purchasing a large quantity of products, it is worth checking the current rules for crossing checkpoints.

Where do these rules apply?

Transportation takes place through official crossing points specified in the Green Line regulations. Goods contained in travelers' personal luggage may benefit from exemptions if they meet certain conditions.

The material was prepared on the basis of information from the Customs Department of the Republic of Cyprus and the provisions of the Green Line Regulation.