Cyprus scraps curfew, changes workplace rules

Nightclubs, reception halls, recreational areas, and performing arts centres reopen but SafePass is required indoors

Today Cypriots have both another reason to celebrate, and a place where to do it, as curfew across the island is lifted, and nightclubs reopen for the first time in 15 months. Also, in line with the government decision to ease restrictions throughout June, the 50 percent workplace capacity limit in the public sector and private companies will no longer apply from 10 June.

No testing for vaccinated workers

Testing rules for employees also change. Vaccinated workers are no longer required to submit a weekly rapid test if three weeks have passed since their first vaccine dose. If a company employs 50 people and 28 of them have been vaccinated, the testing obligation concerns the other 22, the health ministry has explained.

As of 10 June, nightclubs, reception halls, recreational facilities (including swimming pools) and performing arts centres reopen along health ministry guidelines. Fetes and folk festivals can be held in churchyards according to public market protocols.

There are strings attached, however. In nightclubs, people will be served only at their tables (bar areas will remain closed until 1 July) with a maximum of eight people allowed per table. Customers may dance around their table only. SafePass is required in all indoor areas.

Weddings, christenings and receptions

From 10 June until 30 June, weddings and christenings may be held in restaurants, hotels or other venues with attendance limits of 250 people indoors and 350 people outdoors. Receptions and cocktail parties are also allowed, but only in the open and with a cap of 250 people at any time.

Receptions or wedding dinners in a home setting need a special approval. Proof of marriage or baptism should be sent to althhealthservices@mphs.moh.gov.cy alongside the square footage of the house to determine the maximum number of guests according to the relevant protocol. A SafePass is also required from attendees.

Campsites, summer schools and children’s camps

From 16 June, camping pitches or other similarly designed areas, summer schools and children’s camps will reopen.

The latest relaxations come on top of other alleviation measures which commenced on 29 May with the introduction of shorter curfew hours. Since 1 June, 20 people have been allowed to gather in a household, including permanent residents and minors.

There is now a 50 percent capacity limit for indoor venues including religious places of worship, casinos, conference venues, trade fair and other commercial premises, exhibitions, theatres, amphitheatres and other performing arts venues. Also, the indoor spaces of catering businesses, such as bars and restaurants, have reopened based on a health protocol.