Chamber Urges Action On Visa-Free Travel, Tax, Social Security And Direct Air Links

The American Chamber of Commerce in Cyprus is calling on policymakers in Nicosia and Washington to deepen economic and strategic cooperation, proposing a five-point agenda focused on trade, investment, mobility and connectivity.

In a policy paper titled “Strengthening Cyprus-United States Bilateral Relations,” AmCham Cyprus says bilateral ties have entered a period of “accelerated strategic cooperation” driven by shared interests in security, energy, technology, economic development and regional stability. The chamber argues that this momentum should now translate into practical measures that make Cyprus more attractive to U.S. businesses and investment.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Visa-Free Travel For Cypriot Citizens

AmCham Cyprus’ first priority is Cyprus’ entry into the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme, which would allow Cypriot citizens to travel to the US without visas for short stays.

The chamber points to Cyprus’ 2.16% visa-refusal rate, below the programme’s 3% threshold, as well as upgraded biometric passports, stronger digital data-sharing capabilities and new security legislation. Beyond tourism and travel, AmCham says visa-free access would reduce barriers for business executives, academics and other professionals while making Cyprus more attractive as a regional base for U.S. companies.

A Modernised Tax Treaty

The second proposal calls for an updated Cyprus-U.S. double taxation treaty. Signed in 1984 and entering into force in 1986, the current agreement predates major changes in digital commerce, cross-border services and international tax rules.

AmCham says a modern treaty would provide greater tax certainty, reduce administrative barriers and strengthen Cyprus’ position as a regional headquarters and services hub. Shipping, energy, ICT, financial services and fintech could particularly benefit from clearer rules on withholding taxes, dispute resolution and digital business activity.

Social Security Agreement

A Cyprus-U.S. social security, or totalisation, agreement is another priority. Such agreements prevent workers from paying contributions in both countries while helping preserve pension rights when employees move between jurisdictions.

AmCham argues that a deal would reduce costs for businesses and employees, improve labour mobility and make it easier for U.S. companies to deploy staff to Cyprus. The benefits could be particularly relevant to globally mobile workers in sectors including energy, technology, defence and finance.

Direct Flights Between Cyprus And The U.S.

The chamber is also pushing for direct commercial air links between Cyprus and the United States. Discussions have already taken place with a U.S. carrier, but AmCham says passenger demand remains below the roughly 500 travelers per day generally needed to support a long-haul route.

Despite the challenge, direct connectivity could significantly improve business and tourism links, reduce travel times and strengthen Larnaca and Paphos as gateways to the Eastern Mediterranean.

U.S. Preclearance At Cypriot Airports

The fifth proposal is a feasibility assessment for a U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance facility at Larnaca or Paphos. Under such an arrangement, passengers would complete U.S. immigration and customs procedures before departure and arrive in America as domestic passengers.

AmCham notes that preclearance facilities already operate at 15 international locations under bilateral agreements. A facility in Cyprus could make its airports more attractive to airlines, support new long-haul routes and reduce pressure on U.S. ports of entry.

A Broader Economic And Strategic Partnership

Together, the five proposals are intended to strengthen Cyprus’ role as a business and strategic hub in the Eastern Mediterranean while deepening its relationship with the United States.

AmCham Cyprus says progress on visa access, taxation, social security, air connectivity and preclearance would improve mobility, support investment and strengthen security cooperation. The chamber also said it is ready to work with the Cypriot government and U.S. counterparts to advance the agenda.