Nicosia, Cyprus. Deputy Migration Minister Nicholas Ioannides said the government aims to turn migration into what it called a “solution” that supports economic growth and promotes social cohesion, safety and public order. He cited declines in irregular arrivals and asylum applications, alongside increased repatriations.
Policy approach and compliance
Ioannides said migrants were welcome provided they embrace the Greek language, culture and way of life and respect the host country. He said that for those who cannot comply with legislation and the way of life, “there is the way of repatriation.”
Trends in asylum and arrivals
Ioannides said the number of asylum seekers had significantly dropped, while Roma numbers were rising. Presenting work done in 2025, he said irregular arrivals fell by 86 per cent and asylum applications by 87 per cent since 2022, while pending applications decreased by 34 per cent compared with 2024.
Repatriations and departures
Ioannides said Cyprus was among the top EU countries in repatriations, with a record 12,029 departures in 2025. He added that from the election of President Nikos Christodoulides through February 28 this year, 31,312 third-country nationals had left the country, with 1,341 departures in the first two months of 2026. He said 70 per cent of repatriations in 2025 were voluntary and that departures were five times higher than arrivals.
EU framework and legislative changes
Ioannides said Cyprus was implementing the EU agreement on migration and asylum and promoting amendments to national legislation, including provisions to allow an individual’s protection status to be lifted if the person is a threat to security.
Strategy, emergency planning, and digitalisation
He said a national strategy on migration and asylum had been drafted, along with a national emergency plan and the digitalisation of asylum service files.
How do you think Cyprus should balance migration management with social cohesion and public order?
