Cyprus – Landlines and Mobile Phones

What are the international dialling codes for Cyprus, and what are the area codes for the most popular expat destinations?

Cyprus’s country code is +357. To reach a Cyprus number from outside the country, dial 00357 followed by the eight-digit local number. Calls made within Cyprus require only the eight-digit number itself. There is no trunk prefix or leading zero to omit — the number remains identical whether dialled locally or internationally, making the system notably more straightforward than countries such as France or Germany, where a leading zero is used for domestic calls but dropped when calling from overseas.

Cyprus telephone numbers follow a closed numbering plan that came into effect on 1 December 2001. The “0” dialling prefix for domestic calls was eliminated and replaced with a two-digit area code, which must be included even when calling a number within the same district. The district codes are: Nicosia: 22, Famagusta: 23, Larnaca: 24, Limassol: 25, and Paphos: 26.

All Cypriot landline numbers incorporate their district prefix within the first two digits. A Limassol landline, for example, will appear as 25 XXX XXX, while a Paphos number takes the form 26 XXX XXX. Every number in Cyprus — with the exception of short codes — has exactly eight digits.

Mobile numbers follow the pattern 9xxxxxxx, where the digit immediately following the 9 indicates the network: 9 or 7 denotes Cyta, 6 indicates Epic, 5 points to PrimeTel, and 4 to Cablenet. This can be a useful way to identify a number’s originating network, though since number portability exists, the prefix does not necessarily reflect a subscriber’s current provider.

A note on Northern Cyprus: Northern Cyprus operates under the Turkish numbering system. The Turkish area code 0392 is assigned to landlines, and the Turkish country code +90 applies for international calls into the area. To call Northern Cyprus from the Republic of Cyprus, dial 0139 followed by the seven-digit subscriber number, with calls billed at local rates.

A 24-hour directory enquiries service can be reached by dialling 11892 or 11800. Callers seeking country codes or area codes for international destinations may dial 11894 for assistance.

Who are the major landline providers in Cyprus, and how can you contact them?

Fixed-line services for residential and business customers in Cyprus are provided by Cyta, an autonomous but government-owned entity, along with PrimeTel, Epic, and Cablenet. Since the telecoms sector was opened to competition in 2003, both domestic and international fixed and mobile voice, internet access, and data services have been made available through multiple operators.

Cyta, as the state-owned national telecommunications provider, oversees the majority of the island’s telecom and internet infrastructure. It is the dominant player in fixed-line services, with the most extensive geographic reach across Cyprus. New residents can register with Cyta via the internet, by telephone, or in person at any Cytashop location around the country. Cyta’s address is: Telecommunications Street, Strovolos, PO Box 24929, 1396 Nicosia. Customer service: 132 (from Cyprus) or 22 701 000.

Epic provides mobile phones on both monthly contract and pay-as-you-go terms, as well as fixed-line telephony, TV, and broadband for private and business clients. Epic retail outlets are found throughout Cyprus. Tel: 136 (from Cyprus only); from abroad: +357 96 136 136. Epic’s website is epic.com.cy.

PrimeTel is a significant competitor in the fixed-line market, offering bundled packages that combine landline, broadband, and television services. PrimeTel can be contacted at 133 from within Cyprus. Their website is primetel.com.cy.

Cablenet delivers broadband, fixed telephony, and television via its cable network and has recently made the transition from a virtual network operator to a full mobile network operator, providing competitive plans and dependable service. Cablenet’s presence is strongest in major urban centres. Their website is cablenet.com.cy.

All providers offer a range of pricing options and bundled deals encompassing internet, telephone, mobile, and digital television services, both as standalone products and in combination. Always consult each provider’s official website for current tariff information, as prices are subject to change. The complete list of licensed operators in Cyprus is maintained by the telecoms regulator OCECPR at ocecpr.ee.cy.

Who are the major mobile phone providers in Cyprus, and how can you contact them?

The principal mobile networks operating in Cyprus are Cyta-Vodafone (Cytamobile), Epic (previously known as MTN), PrimeTel, and Cablenet. The mobile market is served by four network operators, including Cablenet, which began as a mobile virtual network operator before becoming a full mobile network operator in its own right.

Cyta–Vodafone provides the widest network coverage on the island, with dependable 4G and 5G service that reaches even more remote locations. Cyta has marketed its mobile services under the Cytamobile-Vodafone brand since 2004, following a partnership agreement with Vodafone Group. Customer service: 132 (within Cyprus) or +357 22 880 132 from abroad. Website: cyta.com.cy.

Epic is recognised for its high-speed 4G and 5G performance, with coverage extending to over 99% of the population in southern Cyprus. A subsidiary of Monaco Telecom, Epic has received repeated recognition from Ookla as the fastest mobile network in Cyprus. Customer service: 136 (within Cyprus) or +357 96 136 136 from abroad. Website: epic.com.cy.

PrimeTel offers solid 4G and 5G coverage in towns and cities, though its rural footprint is somewhat narrower than that of Cyta and Epic. With a market share of approximately 10.7%, PrimeTel operates not only in Cyprus but also in Germany, Greece, and the UK. Customer service: 133 (within Cyprus). Website: primetel.com.cy.

Cablenet has recently completed its transition from a mobile virtual network operator to a full mobile network operator, offering competitive mobile plans and a commitment to service quality. Website: cablenet.com.cy.

In the southern part of the island, Cyta, Epic, and PrimeTel are the common choices, while Northern Cyprus relies on Turkcell and Vodafone Turkey, reflecting the island’s political division.

For those living in or travelling through rural and mountainous areas, Cyta-Vodafone and Epic are widely considered the most dependable options owing to their more developed infrastructure. Signal reliability can be inconsistent beyond major population centres — while cities like Nicosia and Limassol enjoy strong coverage, more remote areas may experience gaps. It is advisable to consult each provider’s coverage map before making a commitment. Plan pricing as of 2025 is subject to frequent change — always verify current rates directly with providers.

How do I get a landline connected in Cyprus?

New residents can sign up with Cyta through the internet, over the phone, or in person at a Cytashop. The same general process applies to Epic, PrimeTel, and Cablenet, each of which has physical stores and online registration options. The procedure is relatively uncomplicated and broadly similar to arranging a fixed-line connection elsewhere in the EU.

1. Choose your provider. Take time to compare bundled packages — most providers offer combinations of landline, broadband, and television. If you intend to set up internet and TV at the same time, searching for bundle deals is worthwhile. While they may appear more expensive initially, they can represent better value over time.
2. Contact the provider. Visit a store, call customer services, or complete an online application. Cyta (132), Epic (136), PrimeTel (133), and Cablenet all offer English-language support.
3. Provide identity and address documents. Providers will request personal details including your full name, address, and proof of identity. A passport or national ID card along with confirmation of your Cyprus address — such as a tenancy agreement or a recent utility bill — will typically be required. Both tenants and property owners may apply, though deposit requirements may vary depending on your situation.
4. Pay the connection fee. Having a landline installed generally incurs a fee of around €50, which some providers allow to be spread across monthly instalments over 12 to 24 months. Additional registration charges may also apply. Always confirm the exact fees with your chosen provider before proceeding, as these can change.
5. Wait for installation. The installation process is usually swift and takes anywhere from a few hours to approximately one week. A technician will visit your property to establish the connection and fit any required equipment.
6. Activate and test your line. Following installation, verify with the provider that your line is active and ensure you have received all necessary account and billing details.

If you are moving into a property that already has an existing landline infrastructure in place, the process may be faster — often simply a matter of transferring the account into your name. Tenants who do not own property in Cyprus may be asked to provide a security deposit of up to €500. Confirm deposit requirements with your chosen provider prior to applying. For the most up-to-date consumer rights information regarding landline connections, refer to OCECPR at ocecpr.ee.cy.

How do I get a mobile phone SIM card or contract in Cyprus?

Acquiring a mobile SIM card in Cyprus is a straightforward experience whether you are a visitor passing through or a new long-term resident settling in. Prepaid and postpaid options are both readily available, and the process mirrors that of most EU countries — identity verification is a requirement across all options.

Prepaid (Pay-As-You-Go) SIMs

Prepaid SIM cards can be purchased at network provider stores, petrol stations, and the many kiosks found throughout Cyprus. With a prepaid SIM, you simply select a provider and pick up a card at any convenient kiosk location. Kiosks operated by the main Cypriot mobile operators can also be found at Larnaca and Paphos international airports, providing convenient access for new arrivals.

When registering your SIM at the point of purchase, bring your passport as copies may be required. A valid passport or EU national identity card is the standard requirement for all buyers regardless of nationality or residency — this reflects EU-wide telecoms regulations governing SIM registration, similar to requirements in France, Germany, and the majority of other member states.

Credit top-ups can be purchased at periptero kiosks, tobacconists, post offices, and petrol stations. Some convenience stores and supermarkets also carry prepaid SIM cards, though the range available may be narrower than at operator-run outlets.

Postpaid (Contract) Plans

Most monthly contract plans require a commitment of 12 to 18 months, with financial penalties for ending the contract early. For postpaid subscriptions, providers will ordinarily require both a proof of Cyprus address and identity documents. New arrivals lacking a permanent address or property ownership may be asked to provide a security deposit. Unlike some countries where a contract can be obtained within days of arrival with only a passport, Cyprus providers may require evidence of residency or employment, particularly for those without an established credit history on the island.

A range of plans is available that bundle call minutes, SMS, and mobile data for a monthly fee. Some networks also offer unlimited calling options, discounted devices, or free handsets as part of their packages.

Checking phone compatibility

To use a phone brought from another country in Cyprus, the device must be unlocked — that is, not tied to a specific network. If a phone is locked to a foreign carrier, it may be possible to have it unlocked at phone shops either in your country of origin or in Cyprus. Once unlocked, the device can be used on any compatible Cyprus network, provided the handset supports the relevant technology and frequency bands.

How do I pay my telephone bill in Cyprus?

Bills for mobile contracts, fixed telephony, digital television, and internet services are issued on a monthly basis and can be delivered by post or by email. When signing up, you can request that your bills be issued in English or another preferred language.

Payment methods include in-person payments at provider offices, online transfers, direct debit, and top-up cards. Bills may be settled online using a credit or debit card, by cheque sent through the post, or by telephone. The major telecoms companies in Cyprus accept most widely used credit cards.

Direct debit arrangements can be set up at the time of signing your contract with a provider. This is typically the most convenient ongoing payment method and is particularly recommended for newcomers who want to avoid inadvertently missing a payment deadline.

Multiple options exist for settling your phone bill, and you can choose whichever method suits you best — whether that is visiting the provider’s office in person, paying at a bank, or managing everything online. Cyta, Epic, PrimeTel, and Cablenet all provide online customer account portals where bills can be reviewed and paid.

Failure to pay on time may lead to service interruption. Customers encountering payment difficulties are encouraged to get in touch with their provider promptly to explore available options and prevent disconnection. Late payment policies differ between providers — as with most European telecoms operators, non-payment typically triggers a warning period before any suspension of service, rather than immediate disconnection.

Are there any practical tips for using phones in Cyprus as a newcomer?

EU roaming rules apply

As a member of the European Union, Cyprus falls under EU roaming regulations. If you hold a SIM from another EU country, you can generally use it in Cyprus at your home rate under the EU’s “roam like at home” framework — and conversely, a Cyprus SIM can be used throughout the EU without additional roaming fees, subject to fair-use limits. Before travelling, always confirm with your provider that this benefit applies to your specific plan.

eSIM availability

eSIMs offer several practical advantages over physical SIM cards: there is no need to remove your primary SIM, allowing you to keep your home number active for calls and messages, and setup can be completed quickly without visiting a shop. 5G is broadly available across Cyprus, with Cyta and Epic maintaining extensive 5G coverage across the island. Both Cyta and Epic support eSIM on eligible devices — consult their respective websites for compatible handset lists and instructions on activation.

Number portability

Switching network while retaining your existing Cyprus mobile number is possible. To transfer your number, simply initiate a porting request with your new provider — this is a legal right under EU telecoms regulation. The porting process in Cyprus can take several working days, which is slower than in some EU markets such as France or the Netherlands where same-day or next-day porting is standard practice. Begin the transfer with your new provider and keep your existing SIM active until the port has been confirmed as complete.

Keeping a foreign number

It is not possible to port a non-Cypriot number onto a Cyprus SIM, as number porting operates strictly within national borders. If retaining your overseas number is important to you, consider keeping your foreign SIM active in a dual-SIM handset alongside a Cyprus SIM, or using a VoIP solution in parallel. Many newcomers use applications such as WhatsApp or Google Voice to maintain a familiar number for family and friends abroad while relying on a local SIM for day-to-day use in Cyprus.

Coverage in popular expat areas

Cyta–Vodafone provides the most comprehensive network coverage across Cyprus, delivering reliable 4G and 5G connectivity even in more isolated areas. For expats based in Troodos mountain villages or in rural parts of the Paphos or Larnaca districts, Cyta is generally the most dependable choice. PrimeTel offers sound 4G and 5G service in cities and larger towns, though its reach into rural areas is somewhat more limited compared to Cyta and Epic.

Phone compatibility

If you are arriving in Cyprus with a handset purchased abroad, it should function on the island provided it supports the appropriate frequency bands (GSM 900/1800; UMTS 2100). The great majority of modern smartphones sold in Europe, North America, or Asia will be fully compatible. If you are uncertain, check your device’s technical specifications against the frequency bands published by your chosen Cyprus provider.

No roaming in Northern Cyprus

There are no roaming agreements in place between the Republic of Cyprus and Northern Cyprus, meaning Republic of Cyprus mobile phones will not operate in Northern Cyprus. However, a handset with a SIM from another country will generally function on both sides of the island. If you need to make calls while in Northern Cyprus, an international roaming SIM or a device carrying a foreign SIM card is the most practical solution.

National mobile speeds

According to Ookla data from February 2025, Cyprus records a median mobile download speed of 114.06 Mbps, placing it 31st in the world for mobile performance — ahead of Malta and Turkey. This is an impressive figure for a small island nation and means that streaming, video calls, and mobile working are well-supported throughout the country’s main population centres.

Frequently asked questions

Can I keep my foreign number when I move to Cyprus?

It is not possible to port a foreign phone number onto a Cyprus network — number porting operates exclusively within Cyprus’s national numbering system. That said, you can keep your existing overseas SIM active in a dual-SIM phone alongside a new Cyprus SIM, or use a VoIP service to retain a familiar number for your contacts back home.

Do I need a local address to get a SIM card in Cyprus?

For a prepaid SIM, a passport or valid ID card is all that is required — a local address is not necessary. When registering at the point of sale, bring your passport as copies may be needed. A valid passport or EU national identity card is the standard requirement. For a postpaid contract, a local address and evidence of residency will generally be needed, and a deposit may be requested if you do not own property in Cyprus.

Can tourists and new arrivals get a postpaid mobile contract in Cyprus?

Postpaid contracts are generally intended for residents rather than short-term visitors. New arrivals without an established address or credit history in Cyprus may face higher deposit requirements, or may find it more practical to begin with a prepaid SIM and move to a contract once their residency is confirmed. Most postpaid plans involve a minimum commitment of 12 to 24 months, and a deposit of up to €500 may be required from those who do not own property in Cyprus.

Is 5G available in Cyprus?

Yes, 5G coverage is widely available across Cyprus, with Cyta and Epic leading in terms of geographic reach. PrimeTel also offers 5G service in urban areas. Consult the coverage maps on each provider’s official website to check 5G availability at your specific location.

Which mobile network has the best coverage in rural Cyprus?

Cyta–Vodafone delivers the broadest coverage across Cyprus, with dependable 4G and 5G connectivity extending to more remote areas. For expats living in mountain villages or rural regions, Cyta is generally the recommended option. Epic is the strongest alternative in urban settings and along the southern coastline.

How do I top up a prepaid SIM in Cyprus?

Top-up credit can be purchased at periptero kiosks, tobacconists, post offices, and petrol stations. You may also top up online through your provider’s website or via their mobile app. Top-up vouchers are widely available across Cyprus, making it easy to add credit without needing a bank card.

Are eSIMs available from Cyprus providers?

Yes. Both Cyta and Epic support eSIM on compatible handsets. eSIMs can be purchased directly through the operators’ websites, with identity verification required. Third-party eSIM providers also offer plans compatible with Cyprus networks for those who prefer not to register directly with a local operator. Verify that your device supports eSIM functionality before making a purchase.

Who regulates telephone services in Cyprus?

Telecommunications in Cyprus (excluding Northern Cyprus) are regulated by OCECPR — the Office of the Commissioner of Electronic Communications and Postal Regulation. A full directory of licensed operators can be found on the OCECPR website at https://ocecpr.ee.cy/. OCECPR is responsible for consumer complaints, licensing, and all regulatory oversight of telecoms providers operating within the Republic of Cyprus.