The Cyprus Parliament has passed a law on the EU Blue Card for highly qualified specialists

Previously, we wrote about two bills submitted to the Cyprus Parliament aimed at attracting highly qualified specialists from third countries to the island. On July 11, 2024, the Parliament approved the Blue Card EU law, which will provide new opportunities for highly skilled professionals from third countries to work and reside in Cyprus.

• The Blue Card EU is an international standard designed to attract highly qualified specialists. It grants holders the right to work and live in an EU member state (residence permit).

Benefits of the Blue Card include:

✔ Legal employment.

✔ Opportunity for the entire family to move to Cyprus.

✔ Access to health insurance, unemployment benefits, and other social assistance.

✔ Simplified procedures for obtaining permanent residency and citizenship in Cyprus.

Implementing this mechanism in Cyprus will attract new companies and investments, thereby strengthening the island’s economic growth. It will also allow local and international companies to expand their talent pool and contribute to the development of innovation and technology on the island.

• Minimum Employment Contract Duration

The minimum duration of an employment contract for work in Cyprus is six months.

• Higher Education and Work Experience Requirements

The Blue Card is available to highly qualified professionals from third countries who have a higher education degree with at least three years of study. In the IT sector, this residence permit is also available to managers and professionals with three years of work experience in the field, which can be accumulated over the seven years prior to the application.

• Quotas

During parliamentary discussions, it was decided to amend the bill to limit the number of Blue Cards that can be issued in Cyprus annually. Annual quotas will be set after consultations with relevant ministries and employer associations.

• When Will the Law Take Effect?

The new regulations will come into effect after the necessary signature from the President of the Republic of Cyprus and the publication of the text on the official government website.

We keep track of all updates and new developments to ensure our clients are always informed about the latest events.

Learn More!

• How to obtain Cyprus residency status?
• Cyprus simplifies the naturalization process for highly qualified professionals
• How to open a company in Cyprus and relocate your employees
• Obtaining a residence permit in Cyprus through employment