Cypriot citizens are edging closer to enjoying visa-free travel to the United States under the US Visa Waiver Program, which streamlines entry for citizens of participating countries.
Following discussions between the Cypriot Foreign Minister and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, both nations have outlined a timeline for commencing their Strategic Dialogue, as reported by Schengen.News.
As part of these negotiations, annual meetings will alternate between the US and Cyprus, with the inaugural round of consultations scheduled for September in Nicosia.
“We are announcing and launching a strategic dialogue between our countries. The first will take place this fall in Cyprus. I think it’s very powerful evidence of the strengthening, the deepening, the broadening of the relationship between our countries, acting together in so many different areas,” remarked Antony Blinken, US Secretary of State.
Under the Visa Waiver Program, Cypriot citizens can visit the US for up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes without needing a visa. Currently, Cypriots, along with Bulgarians and Romanians, must obtain a B-type visa for entry into the United States.
Visa Waiver Program to Enhance US-Cyprus Diplomatic Relations
Joining the US Visa Waiver Program bolsters Cyprus’s political, economic, social, and cultural ties with the United States, fostering new opportunities for American investments in the Mediterranean island and expanding horizons for Cypriot nationals.
Moreover, this move enhances cooperation in critical sectors such as security and energy, pivotal for national interests. Romania, alongside Cyprus and Bulgaria, remains among the Schengen member states yet to participate in the visa-free program.
US Issues 5,500 Visas to Cypriot Citizens in 2023
According to data from the US Department of State, 5,537 visas were granted to Cypriot nationals in 2023. This figure marks a 50% increase from 2022 but reflects an 8.5% decline compared to 2019, when pandemic-related travel restrictions were absent.
Schengen Visa Statistics reveal that over 163,000 visas were issued to US applicants in 2023, showcasing one of the highest approval rates within the Schengen Area for US travelers.