Cyprus plans to block tourists' funds in accounts to guarantee payment of fines for traffic violations

The authorities of Cyprus propose to block funds in the accounts of tourists and car renters to guarantee payment of fines for traffic rule violations. This initiative is being discussed in the country's Ministry of Transport and involves freezing an amount from 300 to 500 euros on renters' bank accounts during the rental period. If no fines occur, the money is returned.

The problem of unpaid fines in Cyprus is acute: tourists renting cars with red category Z plates often violate traffic rules and leave the country without paying fines. In the Free Famagusta area, about 6000 unpaid fines have been recorded in the last three years, and across the country this figure reaches approximately 20,000.

Rental company owners oppose the new measure. They note that current legislation already obliges them to collect full data of renters, and the responsibility for controlling fine payments should lie with the state. In addition, blocking funds may negatively affect tourists' budgets and their perception of the country as a hospitable destination.

As an alternative, the rental companies association proposes establishing information exchange between the police and airports. This would allow detaining tourists with unpaid fines at passport control before departure until the debt is settled.

The problem of unpaid fines also concerns local companies. Sometimes rental firms do not provide data about specific drivers, which also leads to unpaid fines. Authorities are considering the possibility of tightening legislation in this area.

Thus, the initiative to block funds causes controversy: on the one hand, it can improve discipline on the roads and increase budget revenues; on the other hand, it may cause negative reactions from tourists and businesses. Cyprus authorities continue to discuss the most effective and fair measures.