Nicosia: The Cabinet approved on February 4, 2026, following a proposal by the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection, the National Strategy for Migrant Integration 2026-2029, the first comprehensive government policy of the Republic of Cyprus in the field of integration of legally residing migrants.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Strategy establishes a coherent, targeted, and measurable framework of interventions, addressing long-standing coordination gaps and aiming to safeguard social cohesion and economic prosperity, for the benefit of both Cypriot society and migrants. Under the Strategy, integration is approached as a dynamic, two-way process of mutual respect and responsibility. Key prerequisites for effective and sustainable integration include knowledge of the Greek language, lawful employment, and a substantive understanding of the country's institutional framework.
The Strategy is developed around four core strategic objectives. First, socio-economic integration, with emphasis on learning the Greek language, employment, education and skills development, as well as access to social services and active participation in host communities. Second, the enhancement of public awareness and the combating of stereotypes. Third, access to healthcare services. Fourth, legislative and policy alignment, so that the implementation of actions does not conflict with legal provisions or existing policies.
At the same time, emphasis is placed on areas affecting everyday life, such as housing and mobility, health, participation in cultural activities and sports, through both early and long-term integration interventions. In addition, the smooth integration of legally residing migrants also entails addressing the phenomenon of over-concentration (ghettoisation) of foreign nationals in specific areas of cities and communities.
The implementation of the Strategy will be monitored through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and standardised reporting tools, with the aim of collecting reliable and high-quality data to be used for evaluating the effectiveness of actions and for policymaking. As part of the evaluation framework, the Strategy also provides for the establishment of an Advisory Committee, chaired by the Director General of the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection, with the participation of competent services, independent supervisory bodies, academics, international organisations, and civil society stakeholders. The Committee will be tasked with assessing the implementation of the Strategy's actions and submitting recommendations for adjustments where deemed necessary.
'Properly organised integration is an investment in the country's human capital and, through targeted interventions and continuous evaluation, creates the conditions for those who live and work legally in the Republic of Cyprus to contribute productively,' the announcement states. In this way, it adds, the implementation of the National Strategy for Migrant Integration 2026-2029 is expected to strengthen social cohesion, the economy, and sustainable development, shaping a functional, safe, and cohesive society, with respect for the values and institutions of the state, always guided by the collective interest.