The Introduction of the EU Blue Card in Cyprus: An Overview of the Recent Legislative Amendments
On 11 July 2024, the House of Representatives in Cyprus approved a significant amendment to the Aliens and Immigration Law, Cap. 105. This pivotal change aligns national legislation with EU directives, enabling Cyprus to issue EU Blue Cards. This article provides a detailed overview of the legislative updates, eligibility criteria, application process, and the anticipated economic benefits for Cyprus.
Understanding the EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card is a newly introduced residence permit aimed at attracting highly skilled non-EU nationals to work in the European Union. The card offers several benefits, including the right to work and live in the issuing country, family reunification, equal treatment regarding working conditions, and mobility within the EU after a certain period.
Key Amendments to the Aliens and Immigration Law, Cap. 105
The amendments align with Directive (EU) 2021/1883 and introduce the EU Blue Card to Cyprus. The main points include:
Eligibility Criteria:
Higher Education and Professional Experience: Applicants must possess higher education qualifications (at least three years of study) or a minimum of three years of professional experience, particularly in information and communication technology (ICT).
Employment Contract: A valid job offer or employment contract for a highly skilled position with a duration of at least six months.
Salary Threshold: The salary must be at least equal to the average gross annual salary in Cyprus and not lower than the set national minimum wage.
Health Insurance: Applicants must have valid health insurance coverage in Cyprus.
Validity and Renewal:
The Blue Card is initially issued for a period of at least twenty-four months, with the possibility to apply for a renewal within three months before its expiry.
Rights and Benefits:
Family Reunification: The amendments include provisions for family members of Blue Card holders to join them in Cyprus and have access to employment, including self-employment.
EU Mobility: After 12 months of legal residence, Blue Card holders can move to another EU member state for work under certain conditions, encouraging ongoing stays and flexibility within the EU.
Application Process for the EU Blue Card in Cyprus
The process involves several steps:
Preparation of Documents:
Gather necessary documents, including a valid passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, and health insurance coverage.
Submission for Qualification Approval:
Submit the employment contract and proof of qualifications to the Department of Labour for verification.
Blue Card Application Submission:
Submit the complete EU Blue Card application to the Civil Migration Department along with all required documentation.
Review and Decision:
Authorities review the application to ensure compliance with legal requirements.
Issuance of the Blue Card:
If approved, the Blue Card is issued for a period of at least twenty-four months.
Economic Impact and Benefits for Cyprus
The introduction of the EU Blue Card is expected to have a positive impact on the Cypriot economy by attracting highly skilled professionals. Key benefits include:
Addressing Skill Shortages: The Blue Card helps fill critical skill gaps in various sectors, particularly in ICT and other high-demand fields.
Boosting Economic Growth: Highly skilled workers are expected to contribute to economic growth, innovation, and increased productivity.
Attracting Investments: The presence of a skilled workforce can attract investments from large companies, especially in technology and innovation sectors, transforming Cyprus into a hub for innovation and technology.
The amendment to the Aliens and Immigration Law, Cap. 105, and the introduction of the EU Blue Card in Cyprus represent a significant step forward in the country’s immigration policy. This move not only aligns Cyprus with EU legislation but also positions it as a competitive destination for highly skilled professionals. Employers in Cyprus will benefit from a larger pool of talent, enhancing their capacity for innovation and growth.