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Refueling in Cyprus – how to refuel your car after hours?
Filling up in Cyprus may be different than in Poland. Many stations are staffed only until late afternoon, but fuel can also be purchased in the evenings, at night, on Sundays, and on public holidays.
Once staff have finished their shift, stations switch to self-service mode. Drivers then use payment machines that activate their chosen dispenser. It's worth familiarizing yourself with how these machines work beforehand, as card payments may result in a temporary hold.
The rest of the article is below
Until what hours does the petrol station staff work?
At many Cypriot stations, staff are available until approximately 4:00 p.m. However, the exact hours depend on the specific station, day of the week, and season.
The end of service does not mean the dispensers are closed. Most stations allow you to continue refueling using self-service payment machines.
It can also be used late in the evening, at night, on Sundays and holidays.
How to refuel your car after the station is closed?
Once the staff has finished their work, please use the vending machine located at the dispensers. The procedure may vary slightly depending on the station chain, but it's generally similar.
First, select the distributor number you want to use. Then, select your payment method and follow the on-screen instructions.
Once the transaction is accepted, the machine will activate the appropriate dispenser. The driver can then begin refueling.
Check the lowest fuel prices in Cyprus
Gasoline and diesel prices can vary depending on the city and station. Before filling up, it's worth checking where the cheapest fuel is currently.
The widget shows the lowest available fuel prices and can help you find a better-value station in your area.
You can check the lowest prices in individual regions of Cyprus here.
How does card payment work at a gas station?
Many self-service petrol stations in Cyprus use a card pre-authorisation system.
Before the dispenser is activated, the system temporarily blocks a certain amount on the account. This is usually around €50, although the block amount may vary depending on the station operator.
Pre-authorization doesn't mean the full amount has been charged. It's merely a temporary payment security measure to confirm that there are sufficient funds on your card.
What happens to blocked money?
After refueling, the system settles the actual value of the purchased fuel.
If the vending machine has blocked €50 and the driver has filled up with €30, only €30 will be charged. The remaining €20 should be released from the block.
However, both the hold and the actual transaction may be visible in your account history for a period of time. This doesn't automatically mean the station charged you twice.
How long does it take to release the lock?
The time it takes to unblock your funds depends primarily on the bank that issued your card.
In some cases, the difference returns to your available balance within minutes or hours. Sometimes it takes one or more business days.
Occasionally, the hold may persist for longer. If it doesn't clear after a few days, it's worth contacting your bank to check the transaction status.
Can I pay with cash at the machine?
Some machines at Cypriot gas stations also accept banknotes. In this case, the driver first selects a dispenser and then inserts the appropriate amount into the machine.
However, be careful when paying with cash. The machine may not give change, so it's best to deposit the amount you actually intend to spend on fuel.
The way the device works and the available payment methods may vary depending on the station.
How to avoid having funds blocked on your card?
The simplest solution is to fill up during operating hours. You can then pay at the cash register or directly to the station attendant.
The driver then pays exactly for the amount of fuel refueled, without having to block a larger amount on the account.
An alternative is to pay cash at a vending machine, provided it is supported. However, you should first check whether the machine gives change.
What to watch out for when refueling after hours?
Before confirming payment, please carefully check the selected distributor's number. Entering the wrong number may trigger a station with a different car.
It's also worth checking what type of fuel you need. In Cyprus, unleaded petrol 95 and 98 octane, as well as diesel, are available.
Those using a rental car should check the fuel label on the filler flap, key, or vehicle documents. Filling with the wrong fuel can result in serious engine damage.
Refueling in Cyprus is not complicated
Self-service stations allow you to refuel your car at virtually any time. The biggest surprise for tourists is the temporary hold on funds when paying by card.
However, pre-authorization is not an additional fee. Once the transaction is settled, the station only collects the amount corresponding to the value of the fuel, and the remaining hold is released by the bank.
Knowing how the machines work helps you avoid unnecessary stress and makes traveling around the island easier, especially in the evenings and on days when the station staff are not working.
FAQ
Are petrol stations in Cyprus open 24 hours a day?
Many stations are staffed only until late afternoon, but self-service dispensers are usually also available in the evening, at night and on holidays.
Why does the station block 50 euros on the card?
This is a pre-authorization, or temporary payment security. Once the fuel is filled, only the actual value of the purchased fuel is charged.
How long does it take to unlock the money?
This depends on the bank. Funds may be released within a few minutes, a few hours, or a few business days.
Can I pay with cash at the self-service station?
This is possible at some stations. However, you should check the machine's instructions, as the machine may not be able to give change.
Can I refuel my car after 4 p.m.?
Yes. At most stations, you can use self-service vending machines and dispensers that operate after staff have closed.
