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Cyprus Nears Entry Into US Visa Waiver Programme

Exciting news for Cyprus as the nation advances closer to joining the United States Visa Waiver Programme (VWP). President Nikos Christodoulides revealed ‘absolutely constructive’ discussions with a US delegation, marking significant progress. As more details emerge, Cyprus inches towards a future where Cypriot travelers could visit the US visa-free.

The Visit Unpacked

A high-profile US team arrived in Cyprus to undertake a comprehensive technical review of the country’s security infrastructure. Their assessment could soon enable Cypriot citizens to experience hassle-free travel to the US, aligning with the experiences of 24 other EU countries already in the VWP.

The US embassy has affirmed their mission involves evaluating tight security procedures, the issuance of secure travel documents, and the extent of cooperation with US security agencies.

Anticipated Outcomes

Inclusion in the programme signifies trust and stronger ties between both nations. As Cyprus aspires to become the 43rd VWP member country, final decisions await completion after thorough US evaluations in the days ahead.

Eurobank Wins Two Euromoney Awards Following Cyprus Merger

Eurobank has been named Cyprus’ Best Bank for 2026 by Euromoney, while also receiving the award for Best Bank for Large Corporates at the publication’s latest Awards for Excellence.

Merger Marks A Milestone

The awards recognise the bank’s performance during 2025, a year marked by the completion of the legal merger between Hellenic Bank and Eurobank Cyprus. The transaction created Eurobank Limited, which the group says is now Cyprus’ largest banking and insurance organisation, with assets exceeding €28 billion.

Euromoney’s Awards for Excellence evaluate banks’ performance over the previous calendar year, with this edition covering January 1 to December 31, 2025.

Lending, Customers And Digital Growth

Eurobank said its business lending portfolio expanded by around 17 per cent during 2025, while its customer base grew to more than 710,000 retail clients and 11,500 business customers.

The bank also continued its digital expansion, saying more than 96 per cent of transactions are now completed through digital channels, and most financing applications are submitted via its mobile app.

Expanding International Presence

Eurobank also highlighted the opening of its first representative office in India, describing the move as a step toward strengthening business links between Cyprus and India while supporting Cyprus’ role as a gateway to the European Union for Indian businesses and investors.

According to the bank, Euromoney recognised not only the successful completion of the merger but also its lending growth, digital transformation and contribution to Cyprus’ position as an international business and investment hub.

CEO On The Awards

“The Euromoney awards confirm Eurobank’s strong momentum and the successful implementation of our group’s strategy in Cyprus,” Chief Executive Michalis Louis said.

He said the merger strengthened the bank’s ability to support households, businesses and the wider economy, while highlighting continued investment in digital services and the opening of the representative office in India as key milestones during the year.

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