Cyprus has reassessed its colour-coded Covid-19 safe travel risk, opening up to 16 countries, including Armenia, Financial Mirror reports.

Based on Cyprus’ three-tier list, safe countries are categorized as Green, Orange, Red, with arrivals allowed entry without quarantine once March restrictions end. The additional Grey tier is for arrivals from non-EU countries that require special permission and have to self-isolate.

However, in a bid to increase tourist arrivals, in line with the guidelines of the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), authorities have decided to move 16 countries from Grey into the Red category.

From 1 April, Cyprus will be moving the UK, Israel, Russia, the UAE, Ukraine, Jordan, Lebanon, Egypt, Belarus, Rwanda, Serbia, U.S., Armenia, Georgia, Bahrain, and Qatar into the red. This means travelers from these countries are allowed entry if they carry a negative coronavirus test, no older than 72 hours, and take another upon arrival.

Cypriot authorities are trying to encourage tourists from third countries, including its three largest markets, the UK, Russia, and Israel, believing the move will increase air connectivity. Tourists from the UK and Israel, who can prove they are vaccinated against Covid-19, will be allowed entry into Cyprus without getting tested or quarantine.