Unaccompanied minor migrants in Cyprus fall below 350

Nicosia, Cyprus. The number of unaccompanied minor migrants in Cyprus has fallen to fewer than 350, compared with about 1,100 previously under the responsibility of social welfare services.

Accommodation and oversight

The deputy ministry of migration said accommodation for unaccompanied minors had become manageable following a reduction in irregular flows and arrivals of minors.

Controls at accommodation structures have been increased, while police have been granted access to address possible delinquent behaviour. Such incidents have been significantly reduced, the ministry said.

Cases are dealt with immediately and, where possible, fast-track return procedures are promoted.

Priority examination

The ministry said asylum seekers who entered the Republic as unaccompanied minors and have since reached adulthood are examined as a priority.

The information was provided in response to a question from Larnaca MP Sotiris Ioannou.

Management and housing providers

As of January 1, 2026, the deputy ministry assumed responsibility for managing structures and centres for unaccompanied minors.

Following Council of Ministers approval in February, a one-year state aid plan named Hope for Children and MetAction to continue providing housing for minors.

The organisations provide accommodation in small structures with capacities of five to 15 people each.

Capacity and locations

Available accommodation places declined from 396 in 2025 to 254 at the beginning of February 2026.

In August, when the response was issued, the deputy ministry housed 132 unaccompanied minors in structures under its management across Cyprus.

The structures are located near urban centres to ensure minors have access to hospitals, schools and employment, as provided for under national and European legislation.