Adults only (18+)

Can You Vape in Cyprus

Yes, you can vape in Cyprus, but there are important regulations and restrictions that visitors and residents must follow. The island’s vaping laws are based on the European Union’s Tobacco Products Directive, which governs how e-cigarettes and e-liquids are sold, labelled, and used. Understanding these laws is essential if you plan to travel with your vape or purchase products while on the island.

Cyprus has taken a balanced approach to vaping, recognising it as a less harmful alternative to smoking but still enforcing strict controls to protect public health, particularly for young people. Below is a detailed overview of what you can and cannot do when vaping in Cyprus, as well as practical advice for travellers who vape.

Vaping Laws in Cyprus

E-cigarettes are legal in Cyprus, and vaping is permitted for adults aged 18 and over. The country follows the EU Tobacco Products Directive, which means that all nicotine-containing e-liquids must meet specific safety and packaging standards. The maximum nicotine strength allowed is 20 milligrams per millilitre, and e-liquid bottles containing nicotine must not exceed 10 millilitres in volume. Vape tanks and pods are also limited to a 2-millilitre capacity.

All products sold in Cyprus must be labelled with nicotine warnings and must come from registered, approved suppliers. This ensures that vapers are using regulated products that meet EU safety requirements. Unregulated or unlabelled e-liquids are not legal for sale.

While vaping is allowed, the Cypriot government treats it in a similar way to smoking when it comes to public spaces. This means there are many restrictions on where you can use your vape, especially indoors.

Where You Can and Cannot Vape

Vaping is prohibited in all indoor public places, including restaurants, cafes, offices, shops, and bars, unless a venue has a clearly designated smoking or vaping area. Many hospitality venues have outdoor terraces or open-air sections where vaping is allowed, but always check with staff before using your device indoors.

You are not allowed to vape on public transport or inside airports. Vaping in a taxi or bus is also prohibited. Most airports in Cyprus, such as Larnaca and Paphos, have designated outdoor smoking zones where vaping is permitted, but you cannot use your vape inside the terminal.

In outdoor public areas such as parks, beaches, and streets, vaping is generally tolerated. However, you should still be respectful of others and avoid vaping near children, pregnant women, or in crowded spaces. Some tourist resorts and family-friendly beaches have restrictions in place, so look out for no-smoking or no-vaping signs before using your device.

Vaping in Cars in Cyprus

Cyprus has introduced rules to protect children and vulnerable passengers from exposure to nicotine vapour. It is illegal to smoke or vape in a private vehicle when a child or pregnant woman is present. If caught doing so, you can face a fine. The restriction applies regardless of whether the car windows are open or closed.

If you are driving alone or with adults, vaping in the car is permitted, but it is not recommended to do so while driving. Blowing vapour that obscures your vision could be considered a distraction, and you could be fined for careless driving.

Buying Vape Products in Cyprus

You can buy vape products easily across Cyprus in licensed vape shops and some tobacconists. These shops sell regulated e-liquids, coils, and devices that comply with EU safety standards. You must be at least 18 years old to purchase any vape-related products, and you may be asked to show ID if you look underage.

Because of the EU’s flavour restrictions, the selection of e-liquids may differ from what you find in the UK. Tobacco, menthol, and unflavoured options are common, but fruit and dessert flavours may be limited depending on the retailer’s stock. Prices can also vary, with imported brands often being more expensive due to taxes and shipping costs.

If you prefer a specific brand or flavour, it is advisable to bring your own supply when travelling, provided you stay within airline liquid limits.

Travelling with Your Vape to Cyprus

If you are travelling from the UK or another country to Cyprus, you are allowed to bring your vape and e-liquids for personal use. Airlines follow strict safety rules about how vaping equipment should be packed. Vape devices and batteries must be stored in your hand luggage, not in checked bags, due to the fire risk posed by lithium batteries.

E-liquids must follow the standard liquid restrictions for carry-on luggage. Each bottle must be 100 millilitres or less and stored in a single transparent resealable bag. You can pack larger bottles in your checked luggage, but make sure they are tightly sealed and placed in a protective pouch to prevent leaks.

Once you arrive, you can use your vape outdoors in designated areas, but avoid using it inside public buildings or transport facilities. Remember that vaping laws in Cyprus are enforced, and failing to comply can result in fines.

Penalties for Vaping in Prohibited Areas

Cyprus takes its public smoking and vaping regulations seriously. Fines can reach several hundred euros for those caught vaping in restricted areas, including indoor public spaces and vehicles carrying children. Businesses that allow customers to vape indoors where it is not permitted can also face penalties.

Police and local enforcement officers have the authority to issue on-the-spot fines, particularly in busy tourist areas where smoking and vaping bans are clearly marked. The best way to avoid trouble is to follow the same rules that apply to smoking.

Health Perspective on Vaping in Cyprus

The Cypriot Ministry of Health recognises vaping as a less harmful alternative to smoking for adult smokers but continues to warn against its use among young people and non-smokers. Like most EU nations, Cyprus promotes vaping only as a harm-reduction tool, not a lifestyle product.

Health authorities also caution against second-hand vapour exposure, particularly around children and vulnerable groups. While the vapour from e-cigarettes contains far fewer toxins than cigarette smoke, it can still include nicotine and other fine particles that may cause irritation in enclosed spaces.

Environmental and Disposal Regulations

Cyprus is also strict about waste management and environmental protection. Vape devices and e-liquid bottles should not be thrown away in general waste bins. Instead, users are encouraged to dispose of them responsibly at designated recycling points or through take-back schemes at vape shops.

Because many vapes and pods contain lithium batteries and electronic components, improper disposal can pose environmental risks. If you are visiting, it is best to take used devices home with you for proper recycling or ask a local retailer where to dispose of them safely.

Vaping Etiquette in Cyprus

Cypriots are generally relaxed about vaping, but cultural norms still favour politeness and consideration in public. It is good etiquette to avoid vaping around people eating, drinking, or in family-friendly spaces such as playgrounds or beaches. In restaurants or bars with outdoor seating, always ask the staff before vaping, as each establishment may set its own policy.

Avoid cloud chasing or using large sub-ohm devices in crowded areas, as this can attract unwanted attention or complaints. Using compact pod systems discreetly outdoors is more socially acceptable.

How Vaping in Cyprus Compares to the UK

For UK travellers, vaping in Cyprus will feel familiar, as the rules are largely the same under EU regulations. The main difference is enforcement and the range of available products. In the UK, you’ll find a wide variety of flavours and nicotine options, whereas Cyprus has stricter controls, particularly on flavoured e-liquids.

In both countries, the maximum nicotine strength is 20 milligrams per millilitre, and packaging laws are similar. The same health and age restrictions also apply. However, Cyprus tends to have higher fines for vaping in prohibited areas, so being cautious is important.

The Future of Vaping Regulation in Cyprus

As with many European countries, Cyprus is reviewing its vaping laws as public health policies evolve. The government continues to monitor youth vaping rates and may tighten restrictions in the future. Discussions have taken place about extending advertising bans, restricting product displays, and increasing penalties for retailers who sell to minors.

While there is no sign of an outright ban on vaping, the authorities are moving toward stricter control over marketing and availability, particularly in tourist-heavy areas.

Final Thoughts

Yes, you can vape in Cyprus, but it must be done responsibly and within the law. Vaping is legal for adults over 18, and you can bring your device and e-liquids with you when travelling, provided they meet EU safety standards. You can vape outdoors and in designated areas, but not indoors, on public transport, or in vehicles with children or pregnant passengers.

By respecting local rules and showing courtesy to others, you can enjoy vaping in Cyprus without any issues. Remember to use only legal, compliant products, dispose of used items responsibly, and avoid vaping in enclosed spaces or around those who may be sensitive to vapour. With a little awareness and consideration, vaping in Cyprus can be both convenient and trouble-free.