Cyprus: ‘We will join the Schengen zone in 2026’

Cyprus is set to join the Schengen zone in 2026, President Nikos Christodoulides announced on Sunday.

“We’re aiming for Schengen membership in 2026. A major technical effort is underway, and by the end of 2025, we plan to have completed all necessary preparations. This is our objective—as a state, we intend to be fully ready by then to enter the Schengen area,” he stated.

He described the move as a “strategic development” that would benefit both the Republic of Cyprus and the European Union.

Christodoulides also emphasized the importance of support from the European Parliament in achieving this goal. He expressed satisfaction with the outcome of his recent meeting with European Parliament President Roberta Metsola. “As I continue to engage with EU member states—especially ahead of our upcoming presidency of the Council of the European Union—this will be one of the key issues I highlight, and I’m encouraged by the responses so far,” he said.

“However, our priority is to complete our internal work, and I assure you that by the end of 2025, all necessary technical requirements will be fulfilled to ensure Cyprus joins Schengen in 2026,” he concluded.