During 2024 the House of Representatives enacted a key amendment to the Aliens and Immigration Law (Cap. 105), aligning Cyprus law with Directive (EU) 2021/1883 (so called EU Blue Card Directive).
The amendment introduced the EU Blue Card scheme in Cyprus.
What is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit for highly qualified professionals seeking employment in the European Union (EU).
This initiative aims to make Cyprus an attractive destination for global talent, by offering a streamlined pathway for entering and working within the EU.
Recent Developments
The Ministry of Labour has recently issued decrees outlining some key aspects of the EU Blue Card scheme in Cyprus:
- Defined the following three sectors with unlimited positions for highly skilled third-country nationals:
- Information and Communication Technologies,
- Pharmaceuticals (research positions only),
- Maritime (excluding ship captains and crew).
- The admission quotas for all other professions were set to zero.
- Established as a minimum annual gross salary the amount of €43.632.
What Benefits does EU Blue Card Provide to its Holders?
- To travel within the European Union as tourists, without having to issue a visa,
- To relocate to Cyprus with their family members,
- To move to another European Union country for work after 12 months of residence in Cyprus,
- To enjoy equal working conditions, educational opportunities, social security benefits and access to public services as Cyprus citizens.
Application Process
The application will be submitted with the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
We are currently waiting for further instructions and guidelines from the Migration Department, which has not yet started to accept applications under this new scheme.
Should you wish to find out more on the EU Blue Card, contact us at info@paraschou.com.cy.
