Uproar in occupied Cyprus over potential restrictions on crossings with unrecognized 'identity cards'

Uproar has erupted in the occupied territories following an announcement by the so-called "Southern Cyprus Workers' Association" regarding changes to crossing regulations to the free areas, effective August 25, 2025.

According to the announcement, crossing will only be permitted to those holding an identity card of the Republic of Cyprus or a member state of the European Union.

For those with a birth certificate from the Republic of Cyprus, presentation of this document will be required along with a photocopy of the identity card of their mother or father, who is a citizen of the Republic. These documents must be presented at each crossing.

The "Southern Cyprus Workers' Association" claims that crossing will not be permitted to individuals who only possess an identity card from the so-called "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus," which the Republic of Cyprus does not recognize.

The association stated that it has already held consultations on the matter and will continue to update its members. The Republic of Cyprus has not yet officially commented.