Turkish Cypriots trying to cross to the Republic of Cyprus-controlled areas have been facing problems at checkpoints, Turkish Cypriot media report.
According to Kibris Postasi, Gürcan Osmanbuba, of an association representing Turkish Cypriots working in Republic-controlled areas, claimed that from 25 August 2025, crossings would only permit passage with Republic of Cyprus or European Union identity cards.
Osmanbuba stated that under the alleged new procedures, individuals possessing Republic of Cyprus or European Union identification could only use these documents for crossings. He claimed persons with birth certificates must present these documents at each crossing.
The association representative asserted that individuals whose parents hold Republic of Cyprus citizenship must carry identity photocopies, whilst those holding only TRNC identity cards would be refused passage.
Authorities in the Republic of Cyprus have not issued official statements regarding the claimed policy changes, nor clarified whether any procedures are temporary or permanent.
Police reportedly request Republic of Cyprus identity documents or birth certificates to expedite processing, causing delays at crossing points rather than representing policy restrictions.
