Cyprus interior ministry proposes increase in hunting license fees

The Ministry of Interior of the Republic of Cyprus has drafted legislation to increase hunting license fees for the first time in 21 years. Under the proposal, the standard fee for hunters aged 21 to 65 will rise from 57 to 120 euros, while the fee for those aged 65 to 80 will increase from 43 to 65 euros. Hunters over the age of 80 will be exempt from fees. The bill is currently undergoing public consultation and is scheduled for review by the Legal Service in late June to ensure compliance with national and international law. Authorities aim to have the legislation approved and enacted by August 1, coinciding with the start of the renewal period for the upcoming hunting season. Department of Game and Fauna spokesperson Petros Anagitos noted that the hike is necessary to reflect current economic realities and management costs. Officials aim to apply the new rates to all hunters simultaneously to avoid discrepancies, though final implementation depends on the parliamentary legislative timeline. If the deadline is missed, the implementation may be postponed until the following season to maintain equality among applicants.