Cyprus is poised to become a leading destination for top global talent with the recent adoption of the EU Blue Card scheme. This new law, effective July 11, 2024, aligns Cyprus with European standards for attracting skilled professionals from outside the EU. By streamlining the process for these individuals to work and live in Cyprus, the Blue Card aims to address critical workforce shortages in specialized industries and strengthen Cyprus' reputation as a hub for innovation and technology.

Overview and restrictions

The EU Blue Card is a residency permit that allows highly skilled non-EU nationals to work and live in most EU countries, excluding Denmark and Ireland. It aims to fill gaps in sectors experiencing a shortage of qualified personnel, offering a streamlined pathway for professionals and their families to enter and reside in the EU. The Blue Card is valid for up to three years and can be renewed, providing stability and long-term opportunities for its holders.

Benefits for the Blue Card holder

• Blue Card holders are granted the right to work in high-demand professions with competitive salaries comparable to those of EU nationals. In Cyprus, the salary threshold for Blue Card applicants is set between 1 to 1.6 times the national average salary, which is approximately €20,000 to €32,000 per year.
• The Blue Card facilitates the relocation of the cardholder's immediate family, ensuring families can stay together.
• Cardholders can travel visa-free across EU member states and relocate to another EU country for work after 12 months of residence in the issuing country.
• Blue Card holders enjoy the same working conditions, educational opportunities, social security benefits, and access to services as the host country’s citizens.
• Blue Card holders can apply for long-term residence after 33 months and for citizenship after five years, provided they meet certain conditions such as language proficiency and pension contributions.

Eligibility and criteria

To obtain a Blue Card in Cyprus, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A valid job offer or employment contract for at least six months in a highly skilled position.
• A salary meeting the national threshold.
• A higher education degree obtained after at least three years of study or three years of relevant professional experience in the past seven years, especially in the ICT sector.
• Valid health insurance coverage.

Application Procedure

• The applicant must gather all necessary documents including a passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, and health insurance.
• Submit the employment contract and qualifications to the Department of Labor for verification.
• After the verification, submit the complete Blue Card application and required documents to the Civil Migration Department.
• Authorities will review the application to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and standards.
• If approved, the Blue Card is issued for up to three years, renewable as long as conditions are met.

Cyprus is set to significantly enhance its workforce by implementing the EU Blue Card scheme. This initiative will attract top-tier professionals, solidifying Cyprus' position as a thriving hub for innovation and technology. The influx of skilled talent will drive economic growth, create new jobs, and bolster the ICT sector.

The EU Blue Card scheme will take effect once the legislation is voted and published in the Official Gazette of Cyprus. Following official adoption, the Migration Department is expected to provide further clarifications.

For more information or clarifications about the new EU Blue Cards you may contact Cathy Georgiou our expert lawyer for immigration and labor law.