The Cypriot Cabinet today agreed on a new package of restrictions, which are introduced in the country due to the adverse pandemic situation. From January 10 to 31 Cypriots will face a lockdown with the return of SMS-permits to go outside. At the same time, the vaccination program against coronavirus continues as usual.

Residents of the country will have to remember the experience of last spring – to leave the house, you will again need to send an SMS to 8998. The number of messages is limited to two per day. In addition, a ban on movement between regions is introduced.

Curfews are in effect from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. nationwide. There will remain a ban on gatherings for any purpose (except outdoor exercise classes with a limit of two people).

Of the stores, those that sell groceries and basic necessities will remain open.
Construction, manufacturing and agricultural sectors will continue to operate.
Barbershops, beauty salons and tattoo parlors fall under the lockdown – along with long-closed cultural institutions, nightclubs, gyms, dance and sports schools.
Catering establishments are still not allowed to host guests, but are allowed to sell take-out food.
Church services are still conducted in public, but it is possible to enter a temple to pray, as long as personal safety precautions are respected.

All state and private schools are temporarily closed (transferred to distance learning). But nurseries and kindergartens remain open so that young parents can work.

Employees of the public sector and municipal employees remain at a distance (except for life support services). Private companies are also urged to transfer employees to this mode of work – so that in the offices there would be not more than 15% of staff, not more than 20 people per room.

The measures will take effect at 05:00 on Sunday morning and will be in force until midnight on January 31. If the epidemiological situation improves, the restrictions may be relaxed.