Press Releases

1.    What is in effect regarding camping?

Organized group camps, regardless of the age of the participants, will suspend their operation, as soon as the current period is completed, and no later than July 23, 2021.

2.    Does this mean that the operation of camping sites is suspended?

No, the operation of camping sites continues on the basis of the health protocol.

3.    How will catering establishments, night clubs, event venues, discos and other entertainment venues operate?

Only seated service will be provided and the customers must be seated. The maximum number of persons per table is 10. It is understood that the health protocol and the guidelines must be followed.

Dancing is prohibited at all times, regardless of the type of music offered. Dancing is permitted only in premises/establishments hosting only fully vaccinated persons or persons who have recovered from COVID-19 in the last six months and hold a recovery certificate. The owner/manager of the establishment is obliged to inform and receive approval from the Ministry of Health that his/her establishment will only accept fully vaccinated persons or persons who hold a COVID-19 recovery certificate in the last six months. The information must be sent to the email address: healthservices@mphs.moh.gov.cy.

4.    What is the maximum number of persons allowed in catering establishments, night clubs, event venues, discos and other entertainment venues?

Indoor spaces:

• 250 persons with the required possession of a SafePass, or

• 450 persons, provided that all persons are fully vaccinated or have been infected with COVID-19 in the last 6 months and possess a certificate of recovery.

Outdoor spaces:

• 350 persons with the required possession of a SafePass, or

• 500 persons, provided that all persons are fully vaccinated or have been infected with COVID-19 in the last 6 months and possess a certificate of recovery.

Businesses/establishments that will choose to accommodate only citizens who have been vaccinated or have been infected with COVID-19 in the last 6 months, should make sure that this is indicated at a prominent place in their business/establishment, as well as inform the citizens of their decision.

The owner/manager of the establishment is obliged to inform the Ministry of Health in writing that his/her establishment will only accept fully vaccinated persons or persons who possess a certificate of recovery from COVID-19 in the last six months. The information must be sent to the email address: healthservices@mphs.moh.gov.cy.

5.    Where is the possession of a SafePass required?

Until 31^st July, a SafePass is required from persons aged 12 and over in all indoor and outdoor areas as well as in premises where, in compliance with the distancing measures and in accordance with the relevant guidelines and health protocols, it is possible for more than 20 persons to gather, including employees. The presentation of a SafePass is also required in retail stores, beverage and food retailers, catering establishments, night clubs, etc.

The businesses/establishments must make sure that the maximum number of customers that is allowed in the space is indicated in a prominent space outside their business/premises. In addition, they are required to indicate in a prominent space outside their business/establishment, whether or not the presentation of SafePass is required, taking into account both the number of employees and customers.

For example, the presentation of a SafePass is not necessary, provided that in a bakery or mini-market, based on the square meters, 15 customers are allowed to be present at any given time and there are also 5 employees. In a retail store the presentation of SafePass is required provided that 16 customers and 5 employees are allowed to be in the space based on the square meters.

Beaches, parks and linear parks, dams, squares, nature trails and excursion sites are excluded from the requirement of a SafePass presentation.

6.    Am I required to present a SafePass in places such as Services/ Departments of the public and wider public sector and Local Authorities, as well as private sector companies?

For any kind of visit to Ministries/Services/Departments/Offices of the public, wider public and private sector (including passenger vessels) and to the Local Government, the presentation of a SafePass is required.

The responsibility for checking the compliance with the measure lies with the authorized Officer or the respective Head of the Ministry/Service/Department/Office of the public and wider public sector and Local Authority.

In the private sector, the responsibility for checking the compliance with the measure lies with the owner/manager of the company or their authorized Officer.

7.    Is the possession of a SafePass required for public transportation means?

The possession of a SafePass is mandatory in public passenger transport means (buses, taxis, etc.) by both employees and passengers. More details and guidelines will be announced by the competent Ministry of Transport, Communications and Works.

8.    Is the possession of a SafePass required in institutes, social activities and summer schools?

Yes, the possession of a SafePass is mandatory in institutes, social activities and summer schools by all persons aged 12 and over, including the employees.

9.    Who is reported in case a citizen refuses to present a SafePass in the places where its possession is mandatory?

A citizen who does not present a SafePass in places where its possession is mandatory and, despite the recommendations of the person in charge of the premises, refuses to leave the premises/business, the owner/manager of the premises has an obligation to inform the Police for appropriate action.

10. Can I use the EU Digital COVID Certificate (EUDCC) as a SafePass?

Yes, you can use the EU Digital COVID Certificate as a SafePass in places where the presentation of a SafePass is mandatory. Citizens must present proof of identification (identity card, passport, ACR) for verification purposes.

11. What will apply to nursing homes?

Only the holders of a SafePass can visit nursing homes. The responsibility for checking the possession of a SafePass lies with the owners/managers of the nursing homes.

In addition, it is recommended that the residents do not exit the units. However, in case of staying out of the nursing home overnight, the resident must present a negative antigen test result with a validity of 24 hours upon their return.

(MKY/NG)