Drug Trafficking

Drug Trafficking Defense in Cyprus

Cyprus applies some of the most severe drug sentencing in the European Union — understanding exactly how severe matters enormously to your defense.

Direct answer: Drug offences in Cyprus are governed by the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Law of 1977 (Law 29(I)/1977), as amended, which distinguishes possession for personal use from possession with intent to supply or traffic. Cyprus is one of only four EU countries — alongside Ireland, Malta, and the UK — where life imprisonment is available even for the basic trafficking offence, giving courts considerable sentencing discretion.
The Legal Framework

How Cyprus Drug Law Actually Works

01

Law 29(I)/1977

The core statute governing narcotics offences in Cyprus, as amended over subsequent decades.

02

Life Imprisonment Available

Cyprus is one of only four EU states where the basic trafficking offence can carry a life sentence.

03

Possession vs. Trafficking

The law draws a sharp distinction between personal-use possession and possession with intent to supply.

04

Plea Negotiation

Engagement with the public prosecutor for a reduced charge or sentence is a realistic part of many cases.

Frequently Asked

Common Questions

Is Cyprus really stricter than most other EU countries on drug sentencing?

In terms of the maximum available sentence for a basic offence, yes — it is one of only four EU states permitting life imprisonment for it.

Does the law distinguish between different drugs?

Yes, to some extent, though the possession-versus-trafficking distinction matters more for sentencing outcomes.

Can a first-time offence be resolved without a lengthy sentence?

Plea negotiation and mitigating circumstances can meaningfully affect outcomes, particularly for personal-use cases.

Involved in a Related Cyprus Matter?

Speak with us confidentially before your next hearing or deadline.