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Cyprus Sees Strong Demand for eID Cards as 10,000 Applications Submitted

Nearly 10,000 applications have been submitted for Cyprus’ new electronic identity cards (eID), with 5,600 already issued.

Appointments at Citizen Service Centres are available without delays, with the Nicosia centre experiencing the highest demand. Citizens must apply online before booking an in-person verification appointment.

Interest is highest among those aged 25-55, particularly in the 35-44 age group. The application process began on 27 January.

The digital identity card, valid for three years and renewable, is available to Cyprus citizens over 18 who possess a biometric ID and a smartphone with biometric authentication. The first 100,000 eIDs are state-subsidised—30,000 are free, while the remaining 70,000 cost €15.

Deputy Minister of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy Nikodemos Damianou described the eID as a secure digital identity enabling authentication for online services and legally binding electronic signatures.

Cyprus Records 3.1M Guest Nights In Q3 2025

Cyprus recorded 3.1 million guest nights in short-term rental accommodation in the third quarter of 2025, according to Eurostat. The data reflect bookings made through online platforms.

Record Performance In Q3 2025

Between July and September 2025, guest nights reached 3,104,502 across platforms, including Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia. The volume highlights the role of digital booking platforms in Cyprus’s tourism sector.

Continental Trends Bolstering Digital Tourism

Across the EU, short-term rental activity also increased. In the fourth quarter of 2025, total guest nights reached 172.30 million, up 10.90% compared to the same period in 2024 and 30.20% higher than in 2023. For the full year, online platforms accounted for 951.60 million nights in 2025, representing an increase of 11.40% year on year and 32.40% compared to 2023.

Regional Destinations And Competitive Dynamics

Tourism activity remains concentrated in southern European regions. Croatia’s Jadranska Hrvatska recorded 27.70 million guest nights, followed by Spain’s Andalucia with 19.50 million and France’s Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur with 16.90 million. Cyprus is not among the top 20 EU regions by volume, though its figures remain notable relative to its size.

Economic Implications And Forward Outlook

Tourism continues to play a key role in Cyprus’s economy, with online platforms accounting for a growing share of bookings. Eurostat data indicate continued expansion in digital tourism, with implications for policy planning and investment across the sector.

 

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