Gay Law in Cyprus

There are certain things you need to know before you come to Cyprus about law regarding gay life.

Homosexuality - Legal in Cyprus as it had to comply to European Union regulations for accession in 2004. More on this in a further update soon.

Age of Consent:

Heterosexual - 17 years old

Gay / Lesbian - 17 years old

Public Nudity - Illegal. Do not listen to people who tell you about nudist beaches as there is now a law prohibiting nudity in public.

Sexual Intercourse in public places - Illegal. No matter how late it is or how secluded you think you are, it remains illegal. Also remember that the police may pop up ANYWHERE at any time, which is a good thing as it means they are doing their job of tackling crime (e.g. illegal drug trade)

Recreational Drug Use - ILLEGAL. The Cypriot Government is very strict on all illegal drug related issues, so think twice before trying to bring them into the country. Even possession for personal usage is illegal so don't even try it. You will be arrested and prosecuted otherwise. This goes for ALL recreational drugs (Marihuana/weed/hashish, ecstasy, cocaine, heroin, speed, magic mushrooms etc. are all illegal) 

Driving Licence - To drive a car you must be over 18 years old and have a valid driving licence and ID and be insured for the car you are driving, otherwise do not drive. Motorcycles have the same laws except you must be 17 years old.

Identity - It is illegal not to have some form of official document of identification on you, whether this is your national ID card, passport or drivers licence.

Same Sex Marriage / Same Sex Civil Partnerships - Not recognised or conducted in the Republic of Cyprus, so do not plan to have some form of union here while you are on holiday or you will be disappointed.