Cyprus Nears US Visa Waiver Program As Refusal Rate Drops Below 3%

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 28, 2024

Cyprus has achieved a significant milestone in its efforts to join the US Visa Waiver Program, with the 2024 visa refusal rate for Cypriot citizens reported at just 2.16%. This figure, announced by the US Department of State, is well below the program’s required threshold of 3%, marking a crucial step toward visa-free travel for Cypriots.

Progress Towards Inclusion

Deputy Minister to the President, Irene Piki, highlighted the importance of this development, stating that Cyprus has met a “key prerequisite” for its inclusion in the program. She credited the progress to successful technical consultations between Cyprus and the United States over the past year.

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

Piki reaffirmed the government’s commitment to securing Cyprus’ inclusion in the program by 2025, allowing Cypriots to travel to the US for tourism and business without the need for a visa.

Support from US Officials

US Ambassador to Cyprus, Julie Fisher, also acknowledged the milestone, describing it as a significant step forward. She expressed optimism that Cypriots would soon enjoy the benefits of visa-free travel to the US.

What’s Next?

The Cypriot government plans to continue its focused efforts to meet all remaining requirements, ensuring the process stays on track. This achievement underscores the growing cooperation between Cyprus and the US, paving the way for stronger ties and easier travel.

As Cyprus moves closer to this goal, the prospect of visa-free access to the US represents an important development for both business and leisure travellers.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

University Of Cyprus And DegradationLab Launch Solar Research Project

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

June 11, 2026

The DegradationLab Strategy Unit in Infrastructure and the University of Cyprus Photovoltaic Technology Laboratory have launched a research project focused on validating a performance monitoring system for next-generation photovoltaic devices.

Named MPPT-Solution, and formally titled “Proof of Concept of Open-Source, Low Cost, And Adaptable MPP Tracking System For Perovskite PV Devices”, the project aims to improve Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) for emerging photovoltaic technologies, including perovskite-based solar cells.

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

Addressing Hysteresis In Photovoltaic Performance

One of the project’s objectives is to address measurement hysteresis, a challenge associated with several emerging photovoltaic technologies. Researchers are developing an electronic monitoring system designed to track maximum power output more accurately and support performance assessment under varying operating conditions.

Rigorous Testing And Strategic Validation

Launched on March 1, 2026, the project is scheduled to run for nine months. Testing will be conducted under controlled laboratory conditions at the University of Cyprus before moving to field trials involving large-scale perovskite photovoltaic panels. During the outdoor testing phase, international industry partners will collaborate with researchers to evaluate system performance under real-world operating conditions.

Pathway To Commercial Viability

Alongside its research objectives, MPPT-Solution is exploring the development of an open-source, low-cost and adaptable MPPT system for future commercial applications. Project participants expect the technology to contribute to improving the efficiency and monitoring capabilities of next-generation photovoltaic installations.

Strategic Funding And Innovation

Funding is provided by the Cyprus Research and Innovation Foundation through its Proof of Concept programme, which forms part of the broader Smart Development initiative. Support from the programme will enable the development and validation of renewable energy technologies while strengthening research activity in Cyprus.

Breaking news