Nicosia: The government's goal is to transform migration from a problem into a solution, in a way that contributes to strengthening the economy and safeguarding social cohesion, as well as public order and security, said Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nicholas Ioannides during a press conference where he presented the Deputy Ministry's report on its work for the year 2025.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Ioannides noted a significant reduction in irregular arrivals and new asylum applications in 2025 compared to previous years, with an 86% and 87% decrease, respectively. Additionally, pending asylum cases decreased by 34% compared to 2024. Cyprus also ranked among the top EU member states for the number of returns of third-country nationals, recording 12,029 departures in 2025 and a total of 31,312 from the start of the administration through February 28, 2026.
The Deputy Minister emphasized 2025 as pivotal for advancing the Deputy Ministry's primary strategic objective, linked to the European Pact on Migration and Asylum. This included an amendment to the Refugee Law allowing revocation of subsidiary protection status under specific conditions and a recodification submitted to the House of Representatives.
In preparation for implementing the Pact, the Deputy Ministry undertook extensive reviews and upgrades, such as revising the Asylum Service's procedures and designating the Pournara First Reception Center as a Control, Screening, Reception, and Identification Center. Infrastructure upgrades included renovating the Pournara facility and constructing the Reception Center in Limnes, both funded by the EU, to enhance accommodation capacity and improve return efficiency.
The government's policies have yielded results, with a shift in the ratio of arrivals to departures in 2025, where five times as many people left as arrived. The European Commission noted Cyprus issued the most return decisions in Europe, relative to population and GDP, between July 2024 and June 2025.
Ioannides highlighted the importance of the first comprehensive National Strategy for the Integration of Legally Residing Migrants, funded by Switzerland and European funds. The strategy aims to reduce costs associated with migration, with over 60% covered by EU co-funding or cooperation with other countries.
Regarding regional developments, the Deputy Ministry remains vigilant but notes no new migrant flows have been observed. The emphasis is on sustainable asylum systems and reducing abusive applications, with a focus on integrating those willing to comply with Cypriot law and culture.
The Deputy Ministry has also focused on coordinating with authorities in Syria, with a presence reestablished in the country to facilitate voluntary returns of Syrian nationals. Additionally, preparations for the implementation of the Pact on Migration and Asylum include legislative and procedural improvements.
Unaccompanied minors in Cyprus are now managed by the Asylum Service, with a comprehensive plan for their care, while initiatives on legal migration aim to meet labor demands. The Deputy Ministry works to curb irregular flows and ensure effective control over legal immigration.
Addressing increased Roma migration, Ioannides acknowledged their status as European citizens requires a different approach, emphasizing cooperation with police to combat crime while respecting legal obligations for all citizens.