The introduction of the EU Blue Card scheme marks a significant development for the Cyprus economy, aligning the country with the European Union's framework to attract highly skilled professionals from non-EU nations. Approved by the Cypriot Parliament on July 11, 2024, this legislation addresses workforce shortages in specialized sectors and further solidifies Cyprus as a hub for innovation and technology. The Blue Card scheme simplifies the process for qualified individuals to work and reside in the EU, offering numerous benefits for approved cardholders.
Overview
The EU Blue Card is a residency permit that allows highly skilled non-EU nationals to work and live in most EU countries, excluding Denmark and Ireland. It aims to fill gaps in sectors experiencing a shortage of qualified personnel, offering a streamlined pathway for professionals and their families to enter and reside in the EU. The Blue Card is valid for up to three years and can be renewed, providing stability and long-term opportunities for its holders.
Benefits
- Blue Card holders are granted the right to work in high-demand professions with competitive salaries comparable to those of EU nationals. In Cyprus, the salary threshold for Blue Card applicants is set between 1 to 1.6 times the national average salary, approximately €20,000 to €32,000 (per year).
- The Blue Card facilitates the relocation of the cardholder's immediate family, ensuring families can stay together.
- Cardholders can travel visa-free across EU member states and relocate to another EU country for work after 12 months of residence in the issuing country.
- Blue Card holders enjoy the same working conditions, educational opportunities, social security benefits, and access to services as the host country’s citizens.
- Blue Card holders can apply for long-term residence after 33 months and for citizenship after five years, provided they meet certain conditions such as language proficiency and pension contributions.
Eligibility
To obtain a Blue Card in Cyprus, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A valid job offer or employment contract for at least six months in a highly skilled position.
- A salary meeting the national threshold.
- A higher education degree obtained after at least three years of study or three years of relevant professional experience in the past seven years, especially in the ICT sector.
- Valid health insurance coverage.
Application Procedure
- The applicant must gather all necessary documents including a passport, employment contract, proof of qualifications, and health insurance.
- Submit the employment contract and qualifications to the Department of Labour for verification.
- After the verification, submit the complete Blue Card application and required documents to the Civil Migration Department.
- Authorities will review the application to ensure compliance with all legal requirements and standards.
- If approved, the Blue Card is issued for up to three years, renewable as long as conditions are met.
The EU Blue Card scheme represents a major advancement for Cyprus in building a dynamic and skilled workforce. By attracting highly qualified professionals, Cyprus aims to further establish itself as a hub for innovation and technology, boosting public revenue, creating new job opportunities, and boosting the ICT sector.
The EU Blue Card scheme will take effect once the legislation is voted and published in the Official Gazette of Cyprus. Following official adoption, the Migration Department is expected to provide further clarifications.
For more information or clarifications about the new EU Blue Cards you may contact our expert team member Yulia Iosiphidou.
