The UK Government has updated its travel advice for Cyprus, warning that fertility treatment in the north of the island carries risks because clinics are not regulated in the same way as in the UK.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) refreshed its advice page on Friday, noting that the north has become a popular destination for medical tourism, with fertility treatment reported to cost about half of private UK services. However, the update cautions that the treatment 'carries risk' and advises travellers to 'make sure you conduct thorough research beforehand'.
FCDO advice and HFEA guidance
The updated note links to the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) website, which offers advice to people considering fertility treatment abroad, including the questions they should ask. The FCDO statement reads: "Fertility treatment in the north of Cyprus carries risks as clinics are not regulated in the same way as they are in the UK. Make sure you conduct thorough research beforehand. Further information on fertility treatment abroad is available on the HFEA website."
Background of complaints and investigations
Fertility services in the north of Cyprus drew attention in April when multiple British patients complained they had been given the wrong sperm or egg donors. An investigation claimed that 'most' families who took DNA tests had their fears confirmed.
Cyprus is a member of the European Union and follows EU laws on treatment, but the north of the country is not controlled by the Republic of Cyprus, so EU law is suspended there. The territory is currently administered by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), which the UK does not recognise as independent from the Republic of Cyprus. The Ministry of Health in the territory has pledged to investigate the fertility service issues.
Limited consular support and NHS criteria
The UK Government's travel advice states that diplomats at the British High Commission have 'limited ability to provide assistance there' and links to a list of English-speaking lawyers in both the Republic of Cyprus and the north. Access to NHS funding for IVF depends on rules set by regional Integrated Care Boards.
