Cyprus has joined the EU countries that issue the Blue Card – a residence permit for highly qualified professionals from third countries. In this article, we explain who can get the Cyprus Blue Card, what rights it provides, how to apply and why this program is considered a profitable path to legal living and working in Europe. Find out what benefits the card opens up for you and your family, how to quickly apply for documents and where to start

Cyprus has joined the European Union countries that offer the EU Blue Card – a special residence and work permit for highly qualified foreigners. This status allows you to work legally, reunite with your family, enjoy the benefits of local legislation and gradually obtain long-term residence or even citizenship in the EU.

We tell you how the EU Blue Card system works in Cyprus, who is eligible for it, what documents are required and why this format is attracting more and more specialists from all over the world.

When planning a trip abroad, be sure to take care of a travel insurance policy that will protect you from unforeseen situations during the trip and compensate for unplanned expenses - for medical treatment, in case of lost luggage, flight cancellation, etc.

What is the EU Blue Card?

The Blue Card is a residence permit granted to third-country nationals (non-EU) who have received an offer of highly qualified work in a member state of the European Union. The main goal of this system is to attract specialists in industries where there is a shortage of personnel.

The program was launched in Cyprus in 2024, and it has already become a popular immigration option for specialists in IT, engineering, medicine, education and other industries.

Who can apply for a Cyprus Blue Card?

To obtain an EU Blue Card in the Republic of Cyprus, the applicant must meet the following criteria:

- Have a valid employment contract or job offer in the territory of Cyprus for a period of at least 1 year.

- The salary must be at least the minimum threshold of 43,632 euros per year (as of 2025);

- Have higher education or professional qualifications confirming a high level of specialization.

- Health insurance and the availability of relevant documents for application.

What rights does the EU Blue Card provide in Cyprus?

Card holders receive a number of important rights:

- The right to enter, re-enter and reside in the territory of the Republic of Cyprus;

- Access to highly qualified work in the relevant field;

- Equal working conditions and social protection as for Cypriot citizens;

- Possibility of family reunification, with family members receiving permits for the same period as the main applicant;

- Accumulation of periods of residence in different EU countries to obtain long-term resident status.

Advantages of the EU Blue Card

Obtaining a Blue Card opens up many advantages for foreigners who plan to build a career in Cyprus or in the EU as a whole:

1. Access to legal employment in sectors with a shortage of personnel

You can work officially in prestigious positions, receiving a competitive salary of not less than 43,632 euros per year.

2. Possibility of rapid family reunification

Spouses and children under 18 years of age can join the card holder almost immediately. The validity period of the permit for them will be identical.

3. Path to permanent residence and citizenship

After 33 months of legal residence in Cyprus (or 21 months with confirmation of language integration), you can apply for long-term resident status. And after five years, you can apply for citizenship.

4. Visa-free travel within the EU

Card holders can travel within the Schengen countries as tourists without obtaining additional visas.

5. Equal access to rights and services

The use of public services, education, social protection, training opportunities - all this is available on equal terms with citizens of Cyprus.

6. Interstate mobility

After 12 months of residence in Cyprus, a specialist has the right to move to another EU country with a new job offer, having issued a new Blue Card there. This opens the way to career growth throughout the European Union.

How to apply for an EU Blue Card?

The application is submitted to the Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Centre (CRMD) or through the employer. It is recommended to prepare in advance:

- copies of diplomas;

- contract with the employer;

- confirmation of salary;

- health insurance;

- certificate of no criminal record;

- copy of passport;

- receipt for payment of the fee.

The review usually takes from several weeks to two months.

The EU Blue Card in Cyprus is a great chance for highly qualified professionals to legally work and live in Europe, provide for their family and build a stable future. The simplicity of registration, transparent conditions and real prospects for long-term residence make this program a popular migration tool. If you meet the requirements - do not delay in applying!

Need help with document processing or consultation?

On our portal you can order the services of a migration lawyer, check your package of documents, or receive support until you receive the card.

Write to us - and we will help you take the first step towards life in Cyprus!

Reminder! Cyprus has introduced changes to its startup visa program, which came into effect in January 2025. The updated startup visa conditions make the program more flexible and accessible to foreign entrepreneurs. We have already told you what exactly has changed for investors who plan to obtain a Cyprus Startup visa.

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