Brussels: Cyprus is on the brink of a significant milestone toward joining the Schengen area, with the European Commission set to adopt its Schengen evaluation report in the upcoming spring. European Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, revealed this development in an interview with the Cyprus News Agency.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Commissioner Brunner confirmed that Cyprus has made notable progress in meeting all outstanding technical requirements. The focus now shifts to a political decision by the Council once Cyprus's readiness is officially confirmed. Brunner emphasized the European Commission's full support for Cyprus's efforts to join the Schengen area, highlighting Schengen as one of the European Union's most substantial achievements. It facilitates freedom of movement and boosts tourism, trade, and daily life across the EU.
The report's adoption in spring will mark a crucial step, as the Council will then need to take a unanimous decision on Cyprus's accession once technical readiness is confirmed. This development coincides with the EU's broader plans, such as moving from legislation to full implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum by June 2026. Brunner noted that illegal border crossings have decreased by more than half since 2023, thanks to advancements in implementing the Pact on Asylum and Migration and adopting new measures to streamline procedures across the EU.
The EU is providing Cyprus with £290 million in support for 2021-2027, alongside assistance from the EU Asylum Agency and Frontex. Amid continued instability in the Middle East and shifting migration routes in the Eastern Mediterranean, the EU is prioritizing reducing and maintaining low illegal arrival numbers while remaining vigilant across all routes.
The EU is also intensifying efforts against migrant smuggling, engaging with stakeholders in regions like Libya to reduce illegal departures. The EU remains the largest donor in the Middle East, aiming to stabilize Syria and improve conditions for Syrians to return home.
As Cyprus takes on the EU Council Presidency, its cooperation with the Cypriot authorities has been described as positive. The country has shown significant progress, with irregular border crossings decreasing by 62% in 2025 and the return rate reaching 60%, well above the EU average. Cyprus is well-positioned to drive political progress on key justice and home affairs issues during its Presidency.