Is abortion legal in Cyprus?
Yes — abortion has been legal since 2018, within limits. It was decriminalised by a 2018 amendment to the Criminal Code (Cap. 154), in force March 2018. On request (no reason): up to 12 weeks, with the woman's consent. For rape, sexual abuse or incest (and certain minor/intellectual-disability cases): up to 19 weeks. For serious risk to the woman's life or physical/mental health, or severe foetal abnormality: no fixed time limit. It's performed by a registered medical practitioner, in a public hospital or certified clinic. In short: yes, with limits depending on the grounds.
📋 The rules
- Legal since March 2018 (Cap. 154)
- On request: up to 12 weeks
- Rape/incest: up to 19 weeks
- Health risk/foetal abnormality: no time limit
- By a registered doctor, in a hospital/clinic
🔓 Exceptions
- Medical (medication) abortion up to the 7th week; surgical after
- Except in emergencies: two gynaecologists present
- Conscientious objection by staff is permitted
⚠️ Penalties & fines
Abortion outside the legal limits or conditions (e.g. outside the approved framework or by an unauthorised person) remains a criminal offence under the Criminal Code. Beware a myth: "abortion is completely banned in Cyprus" is false — it's been legal since 2018 within the limits. Note: the exact amending-law number, any reflection period (a 72-hour one is reported) and any mandatory counselling couldn't be confirmed here. Tip: contact a public hospital or certified clinic for medical guidance. This is a sensitive topic — if you need support, speak with a doctor or health counsellor.
📎 Official sources
- SRHR · Cyprus abortion policy →
- CyLaw · Criminal Code Cap. 154 →
- Malta Today · Cyprus decriminalises abortion →
❓ Frequently asked
Is abortion legal in Cyprus?
Yes. It was decriminalised by a 2018 amendment to the Criminal Code. Abortion on request is allowed up to 12 weeks of pregnancy, with the woman's consent, while broader limits apply for medical grounds or in cases of rape, sexual abuse or incest.
Until when is it allowed?
On request, with no reason, up to 12 weeks. For rape, sexual abuse or incest, up to 19 weeks. For serious risk to the woman's life or health, or severe foetal abnormality, there's no fixed time limit, as the grounds are medical rather than elective.
Who can perform it?
Abortion is performed by a registered medical practitioner, in a public hospital or certified clinic. Except in emergencies, two gynaecologists must be present. Healthcare staff have a right of conscientious objection and may decline to take part in the procedure.
Medication or surgical?
Medical abortion, using medication, is possible up to the 7th week of pregnancy. After that point, the procedure is surgical. The appropriate method is determined medically, depending on the week of pregnancy and the individual's circumstances and health.
Is there a reflection period?
A 72-hour reflection period and possible counselling are reported, but this wasn't confirmed here as an express legal requirement. For accurate guidance, contact a public hospital or certified clinic, which will explain the procedure and the conditions that apply.
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