European Commission Closes Cyprus Citizenship Program Infringement Case

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 16, 2026

European Commission Concludes Investigation

Cyprus has taken decisive steps to address the concerns raised by the European Commission over its former Citizenship-by-Investment Program. The Commission, following a thorough review of the allegations, announced on March 11, 2026 that it is closing the case related to alleged breaches by the Republic of Cyprus.

Regulatory Violations And Commission’s Stance

Commission Representative Mark Lambert was unequivocal during his remarks with CYPRUS PROFILE, stating that such citizenship investment schemes contravene EU law, as European citizenship must remain non-commercial and not subject to purchase. Despite suspending the issuance of investor citizenship in October 2020, Cyprus had not fully repealed the underlying legislation, triggering infringement procedures.

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Legislative Reforms And Resolution

The government of Cyprus responded by finalizing the processing of pending applications in 2021 and formally repealing the legal framework for the program, effective December 12, 2025. These timely reforms have effectively allayed the Commission’s concerns, prompting the closure of the infringement case.

Implications For EU Regulatory Compliance

This development underscores the EU’s stringent oversight of member state policies to ensure alignment with its fundamental legal principles. Cyprus’ swift legislative actions illustrate a commitment to upholding EU standards and bolstering confidence in the region’s regulatory framework.

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Cyprus And Greece Outline Joint Tourism Plans For Summer 2026

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

May 1, 2026

Strategic Partnership Enhances Tourism Prospects

The Cyprus Tourism Authority (EOT Cyprus) presented proposals for summer 2026 focused on strengthening tourism cooperation between Cyprus and Greece, with joint efforts aimed at attracting visitors from long-haul markets.

Greece: The Top Destination For Cypriot Travelers

At an event on April 28, Athena Spakouri, Director of EOT Cyprus, said Greece is expected to remain the main travel destination for Cypriot residents, with plans extending beyond established locations to include lesser-known regions. This approach reflects a broader effort to diversify travel options while maintaining strong demand between the two countries.

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Complementary Destinations, Unified Vision

Building on this, Spakouri noted that Cyprus and Greece offer complementary tourism experiences rather than competing directly. Joint programmes are therefore being positioned to attract visitors from markets such as the United States and China, while tourism activity continues to be assessed in the context of broader geopolitical developments.

Robust Air And Sea Connectivity

Supporting this cooperation, Konstantinos Kollias said around 600,000 Cypriots travelled to Greece in 2025. Frequent flights, short travel times, and ferry connections between Limassol and Piraeus continue to facilitate movement between the two countries and sustain travel flows.

Diverse Tourism Offerings for a New Era

Konstantinos Kollias highlighted that Greece’s tourism portfolio spans from traditional seaside holidays to sectors such as cultural, religious, gastronomic, agritourism, ecotourism, spa, conference, and medical tourism.

This range reflects the expansion of tourism offerings across different segments and travel preferences. In parallel, Joseph Iosif referred to Greece as a “second homeland” for Cypriot travellers, pointing to longstanding cultural and travel links between the two countries.

Innovative Programs And Strengthened Connections

Building on this approach, the EOT strategy includes initiatives focused on gastronomic routes, cultural trails, thematic and religious tourism, as well as curated city breaks in destinations such as Athens and Thessaloniki. These programmes were presented at the event alongside references to historical, cultural, and religious connections between Cyprus and Greece, including remarks from Bishop Gregorios of Mesaoria.

Boosting Air Connectivity And Island Accessibility

At the same time, airlines including Aegean Airlines, Sky Express, and Cyprus Airways outlined plans to expand connections between Cyprus and Greece, with a focus on increasing access to island destinations. The event also brought together stakeholders from the Deputy Ministry of Tourism, Hermes Airports, tour operators, and ACTAA, reflecting coordination across different parts of the tourism sector.

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