Cyprus to introduce visas for Russians

Cyprus is going to introduce visas for Russian citizens in 2003.

RIA Novosti learnt this on Friday in the Cypriot embassy in Moscow which referred to Cypriot Trade, Industry and Tourism Minister Nikos Rolandis. Thus, the Cyprus-Russia bilateral agreement on visa-free travelling signed in 1995 will become defunct.

"Cyprus is carefully preparing the introduction of the visa regime and will take all the necessary measures to make visas ready within the shortest period of time," Nikos Rolandis said. "The price for the visa will not exceed $10-20," sources in Nicosia reported.

The introduction of the visa regime with regard to Russian citizens was prompted by Cyprus's intention to join the European Union and to meet the obligation to bring its legislation in line with the EU norms, the diplomatic office explained.

Cyprus, the embassy officials remarked, is the last country among the EU hopeful members that preserved the visa-free regime up till now.