By: N. Pirilides & Associates LLC
Cyprus officially launched its EU Blue Card scheme on 7 July 2025, after transposing Directive (EU) 2021/1883 into national law in mid‑2024. The EU Blue Card is a residence permit that allows highly qualified workers from countries outside the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA) to live and work in Cyprus and other EU member states, with the exception of the Kingdom of Denmark and Ireland. The Migration Department of the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection of the Republic of Cyprus shall now be accepting applications for the issuance of the EU Blue Card.
In the Republic of Cyprus, the EU Blue Card will be issued for highly qualified employment in the following sectors:
- Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Pharmaceuticals (for research purposes only)
- Shipping (excluding ship captains and crew)
The minimum gross annual salary required for the issuance of an EU Blue Card in the Republic of Cyprus is set at €43,632.
Holders of an EU Blue Card issued by the Republic of Cyprus enjoy the following rights:
- Entry, re-entry, and residence in the Republic of Cyprus.
- Access to highly qualified employment.
- Equal treatment with Cypriot citizens in terms of working conditions, education and training, social security etc.
- Family reunification with permits equal in duration to those of the EU Blue Card holder.
- Accumulation of periods of residence in different member states for the purpose of eligibility of acquiring EU long-term resident status. After 33 months of contributions and local language competence, Blue Card holders may apply for long-term EU residence.
- Eligibility for Cyprus citizenship after 5 years
Application Process
Persons who wish to apply for the EU Blue Card should submit their employment contract and proof of qualifications to the Department of Labour for initial approval and apply at the Migration Department with supporting documents. Decision is typically issued within 90 days.
If you’re a non‑EU specialist in one of the targeted sectors, Cyprus now offers one of the most attractive EU-wide immigration programs. For tailored guidance, document preparation, or assistance with your application, please contact us for more information.
