Border Crossing

Border crossing between North and South Cyprus

Cyprus, one of the main Eurasian island-countries in the Mediterranean seas have been divided into two major states by the United Nations' "Green Line". Though it is only a small country in the area, it is still notable to know that it has two separate republics and governments servicing the two main groups of citizens in the nation.  Since 1974, it has been established that there are two main parts of this one whole, thus arising the Republic of Cyprus, which refers to South Cyprus, and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, which refers to Northern Cyprus.

Because of this division, they have set certain policies and rules of border crossing, either you're from the North traveling to the South, or from the South traveling to the North.  It is through their efforts to make peaceful measures and unification methods that both the Greek and Turkish Cypriots decided to allow some openings or less strict rules when it comes to border crossing along the Green Line, which is presently the partition that divides this island.  Recently, there are five active checkpoints along the Green Line, which allowed easier and faster border crossing between the two states.  Although, there have been plans to open more checkpoints, it hasn't been realized yet.

In border crossing, people must follow the guidelines on which checkpoint to cross, so as not to delay transfers and to keep the safety, security, and peace in the area.  For the time being, there are five checkpoints for people who want to move between North and South Cyprus.  People, visitors, and guests, may choose which of these checkpoints they should or need to cross in Nicosia, and they must also be very careful because these checkpoints may have different names depending on whether you're in the Greek or Turkish territory.  Agios Dometios is the checkpoint for vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and goods.  This is where most of the people cross in a day.  Ledra Palace is also for pedestrians and cyclists, but the only vehicles allowed to pass this gate are the diplomats.  Black Knight and Pergamos allow vehicle-transfer aside from pedestrians and cyclists.  Zohdia, the newly opened border crossing is a checkpoint for vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists as well.

Checkpoints in Cyprus border crossing would depend on where you're coming from.  Each entry point has its own set of three names --- in English, Greek, or Turkish --- so, better make it a point to know what these are especially if you'll try border crossing this beautiful island.