Health

Before you travel check that:

  • your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
  • you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

For more information read guidance on healthcare when travelling in Europe.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.

Healthcare facilities in Cyprus

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Cyprus where some staff will speak English.

There is additional guidance for people living in Cyprus.

COVID-19 healthcare in Cyprus

If you test positive for COVID-19, you will be advised to self-isolate for 5 days from the date of a positive test. You do not need to test negative after 5 days.

Check the latest COVID-19 guidance from the Press and Information Office.

The Cypriot authorities recommend that you:

  • self-isolate in your private accommodation and do not use public facilities (you will need to pay any additional accommodation costs during the isolation period)
  • get medical attention if you are concerned about your COVID-19 symptoms (there are COVID-19 hospitals in most cities)

If you are a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19, you are advised to take a test on days 3 and 5 from your contact with a positive case.

Health insurance cards

Apply for a free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) before leaving the UK. If you already have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), it will still be valid as long as it remains in date.

The GHIC or EHIC entitles you to state-provided medical treatment necessary during your trip. Any treatment provided is on the same terms as Cypriot nationals. If you do not have your card with you or you’ve lost it, contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team.

It’s important to take out appropriate travel insurance for your needs. A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance and you should have both before you travel. A GHIC or EHIC does not cover all health-related costs, for example, medical repatriation, ongoing medical treatment and non-urgent treatment. Read more about what your travel insurance should cover.

GHIC and EHIC cover state healthcare only, not private treatment. You will be responsible for the cost of any treatment provided by a private doctor or private clinic.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.