Cyprus’ planned accession to the Schengen zone is expected to give the tourism sector a fresh boost, improving access for travellers and reinforcing efforts to establish the island as a year-round destination. 

Speaking to InBusinessNews, president of the Cyprus Hoteliers Association (Pasyxe), Thanos Michaelides, said the development would “significantly facilitate the movement of citizens within the European Union.”  

He explained that third-country nationals holding a Schengen visa would find it easier to travel to Cyprus, making the island more accessible and appealing.  

“The same,” he noted, “will also apply to the workforce who may have a Schengen visa and therefore we are expected to have an improvement in the situation at this level as well.” 

The only real concern, Michaelides said, involves managing travellers from the United Kingdom, Cyprus’ main source of tourism.  

“Provided that we can give the British a solution that will not make it difficult for them to arrive, then joining the Schengen zone will be very positive,” he said.  

However, this would depend on how the European Union handles post-Brexit travel requirements for UK citizens. 

Michaelides also said that Cyprus joining the Schengen zone may pose a minor issue but won’t deter UK tourists.

Finally, he stated that he believes that Schengen membership will enhance Cyprus’ appeal and support efforts to make the island a year-round destination, even if it does not immediately boost winter tourism.