Cyprus: Reforms in Asylum, Refugee, and Migration Policies

Significant reforms in asylum, refugee, and migration issues are being promoted in Cyprus, according to the Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Nikolas Ioannidis.

The reforms include the introduction of a screening control and asylum process, the establishment of an independent national mechanism for monitoring fundamental rights, and new parameters of solidarity at the European level.

These changes are part of the implementation of the new European Pact on Migration and Asylum, starting on June 12, 2026, and the expected adoption of the new Refugee Law.

The Deputy Minister emphasized the need for Cyprus to adapt to the changes and properly implement the new procedures, with an emphasis on stricter border controls and faster procedures, always respecting human rights.

The President of the Administrative Court of International Protection, Margarita Papantoniou, presented issues of jurisdiction of the Court.

The Deputy Minister stated that efforts are being made to streamline and digitize legal migration procedures, while the Government has put barriers to illegal immigration.