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Cypriot Passport Ranks 13th Globally for Travel Freedom

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 1, 2024

The Cypriot passport has achieved an impressive 13th position in the global ranking for travel freedom, according to the latest report by Henley & Partners, an esteemed firm specialising in global citizenship and residence advisory. This notable ranking reflects the strength and versatility of the Cypriot passport, granting its holders extensive travel privileges worldwide.

The Henley Passport Index, which assesses the travel access provided by different nations’ passports, has placed Cyprus in this prestigious position based on the number of destinations its citizens can visit without a prior visa. As of the latest update, Cypriot passport holders enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 178 countries and territories, underscoring the significant mobility and convenience afforded by Cypriot citizenship.

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This achievement is a testament to Cyprus’s robust diplomatic relationships and its standing within the international community. The country’s EU membership plays a pivotal role in this high ranking, facilitating visa-free travel across the Schengen Area and numerous other countries. Additionally, Cyprus’s bilateral agreements and participation in various international organisations further enhance its passport’s global reach.

The high ranking of the Cypriot passport is particularly advantageous for business professionals, frequent travellers, and those seeking international opportunities. It enables seamless travel for business, tourism, and personal purposes, reducing the administrative burden and costs associated with visa applications. This ease of travel is a significant asset for Cypriots, fostering greater global mobility and connectivity.

Moreover, the strength of the Cypriot passport contributes positively to the country’s attractiveness as a destination for foreign investors and expatriates. The ability to travel freely to a wide array of countries is a compelling factor for individuals considering Cyprus as a base for business or residence. This aspect enhances the island’s reputation as a favourable location for international business operations and high-net-worth individuals seeking global mobility.

The rise of the Cypriot passport in the Henley Passport Index also reflects the ongoing efforts by the Cypriot government to bolster its international ties and enhance the nation’s global standing. Diplomatic initiatives, economic agreements, and collaborative efforts with other countries have played a crucial role in expanding the travel freedoms enjoyed by Cypriot citizens.

In addition to the practical benefits, the ranking is a source of national pride, highlighting Cyprus’s successful navigation of global diplomatic and economic landscapes. It underscores the island’s commitment to maintaining strong international relations and ensuring that its citizens can enjoy the benefits of extensive travel access.

Despite its high ranking, the Cypriot government continues to work towards further enhancing the passport’s strength. Ongoing negotiations and efforts to establish new visa-waiver agreements aim to expand the list of accessible destinations, ensuring that Cypriot passport holders can enjoy even greater travel freedoms in the future.

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Cyprus Unions Demand Urgent Inspections Over Rising Use Of Temporary Hotel Workers

Trade unions representing hotel and leisure-centre workers in Cyprus are calling for immediate workplace inspections, warning that the growing use of temporary agency workers is undermining labour protections across the hospitality sector.

Unions Raise Legal And Contractual Concerns

Ouxeka-Sek and Syxka-Peo have written to Labour Minister Marinos Mousiouttas, Labour Relations Department Director Andis Apostolou and Labour Department Director Alexandros Alexandrou, urging the government to intervene.

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The unions said the increasing use of temporary agency workers in hotels and leisure centres has become a widespread problem. They argue the practice violates the Temporary Agency Work Law of 2012, Law 174(I)/2012, while also undermining collective agreements and labour regulations.

Pressure Mounts On Labour Oversight

The unions warned that the issue has been compounded by the new framework governing the employment of third-country workers. In their view, the combined effect is weakening labour protections and distorting competition across the hospitality sector.

Their intervention follows an earlier warning from the Labour Relations Department. In a letter dated June 17, 2025, Apostolou reminded hotel associations of their legal obligations under the existing framework.

The unions said the practice has nevertheless continued and is becoming more widespread, increasing pressure on the government to step up enforcement.

Part Of A Wider Pattern Across Key Sectors

The concerns in the hospitality sector follow similar warnings from the construction industry, where Peo, Sek and Deok said the growing use of temporary workers has led to violations of collective agreements, unsafe working conditions and the treatment of employees as disposable labour.

Meanwhile, the government has announced plans to double the number of labour inspectors from eight to 16 as part of efforts to strengthen enforcement against illegal and undeclared employment.

Call For Immediate Action

Ouxeka-Sek and Syxka-Peo are calling on the Labour Ministry to carry out immediate inspections at hotels and leisure centres, enforce compliance with labour legislation, stop unlawful practices and protect workers’ rights.