The EU Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed for highly skilled professionals from non- EU countries. It provides a streamlined pathway for qualified individuals and their families to live and work in the European Union.
Cyprus introduced the EU Blue Card scheme through an amendment to its Aliens and Immigration Law in mid-2024, aligning with EU Directive (EU) 2021/1883. The law was approved by the Cypriot Parliament on July 11, 2024, marking a significant policy shift to attract highly skilled workers to Cyprus. This was part of a broader EU-wide reform of the Blue Card system aimed at easing restrictions and encouraging uptake of the program across member states.
Eligibility Criteria for the EU Blue Card in Cyprus:
- Employment Contract: Applicants must have a valid job offer or employment contract for a highly skilled position lasting at least six (6) months.
- Salary Threshold Set: The salary must meet the national threshold, which is set between 1 and 1.5 times the average gross annual salary in Cyprus (annual gross salary of €43,632). Regarding the minimum gross salary, this is determined by the Minister of Labor and Social Insurance.
- Education and Experience: Applicants should be “highly qualified” professionals and must hold a higher education degree obtained after at least three (3) years of study. Alternatively, individuals in the information and communication technology sector may qualify with at least three (3) years of relevant professional experience within the past seven years preceding the application for a blue card.
- Health Insurance: Applicants must have valid health insurance for themselves (and any dependents) in Cyprus. This can be private medical insurance or coverage under the national healthcare system if applicable. It ensures that the individual will not be a burden on public health resources.
- Travel Document: Applicants must present a valid travel document with a validity period that is at least equal to the duration of the requested EU Blue Card.
- Clean Background: (Implicit but important) The applicant should not pose a security or public health risk. Applications can be refused if an individual is deemed a threat to public policy, security, or health, or if false information was given. Additionally, certain categories of persons (e.g. asylum seekers, seasonal workers, diplomats, or those under temporary protection) are generally not eligible for Blue Cards.
Benefits and Rights of the EU Blue Card
- EU Freedom of Movement for work: Blue Card holders can move freely between EU member states after twelve (12) months of legal residence and employment in their initial host country. This provision is designed to retain highly skilled professionals in the EU while allowing them the flexibility to work across different member states, both in the short and long term.
- Visa-Free Travel in the EU: Blue Card issued by Cyprus allows the holder to travel throughout the EU without needing additional visas for short visits. Blue Card holders can visit other Schengen-area countries for tourism or business meetings visa-free, subject to the usual 90-days in 180-days rule for tourists. This facilitates ease of movement across Europe for personal or professional reasons.
- Family Reunification: Blue Card holders are entitled to bring their immediate family members, including spouses and dependent children, to live with them in Cyprus, ensuring that families can remain united.
- Equal Treatment: Blue Card holders enjoy the same rights as citizens of the Republic of Cyprus in terms of working conditions, salary, and other employment-related benefits.
Application process in Cyprus
1. Preparation of Required Documents. Key documents include:
- Valid Passport: A copy of the applicant’s passport (and copies for any dependents joining).
- Employment Contract or Job Offer: A signed contract or formal job offer letter from the Cypriot employer, confirming a highly skilled position with at least a 6-month duration. The contract should specify the salary (meeting the threshold) and role.
- Proof of Qualifications: Diploma or degree certificates, and/or documents evidencing the required professional experience.
- Health Insurance Policy: Documentation of health insurance coverage in Cyprus.
- Additional paperwork: Passport-sized photos, completed application forms, a clean police clearance certificate from the home country, and proof of payment of any application fees may also be required as per the Migration Department’s guidelines.
2. Qualification Check: Before the residence permit application is submitted, Cyprus authorities require validation of the job and the applicant’s credentials. The employer (or applicant) must submit the employment contract and the proof of qualifications to the Department of Labour for review. The Labour Department will verify that:
- The job role is indeed a high-skilled position and falls within the categories eligible for a Blue Card.
- The salary meets the national threshold.
- The applicant’s education or experience is appropriate for the position.
3. Submission of Blue Card Application: With the labour verification in hand, the applicant then submits the full Blue Card application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department (the competent immigration authority in Cyprus). The application will include all documents from step 1, the Labour Department’s approval, completed application forms, and applicable fees.
4. Review and Decision: The Civil Registry and Migration Department reviews the Blue Card application thoroughly to ensure all legal requirements are satisfied. They will check the validity of the job offer, the authenticity of diplomas and documents, and that the applicant has no disqualifying factors (security or health risks). By law, a decision on an EU Blue Card application should be made within 90 days of submission. It is up to the discretion of the authorities to request additional information or clarification from the employer or applicant if needed.
5. Issuance of the Blue Card: If the application is approved, the applicant will be issued an EU Blue Card residence permit. In Cyprus, the Blue Card is typically granted for an initial period of up to 24 months (2 years), depending on the length of the work contract (it will not exceed the contract’s duration plus a small margin).
6. Registration and Follow-up: After issuance, the Blue Card holder should register their residence address with local authorities and may need to fulfil any local formalities (such as obtaining a social insurance number, tax identification, etc., through the employer). Family members joining the Blue Card holder will also receive residence permits and should similarly register.
7. Renewal: As the Blue Card nears expiry, the holder can apply for renewal if they continue to meet the conditions. Renewal applications in Cyprus should be filed at least three (3) months before the card’s expiration to ensure continuity of status.
Conclusion:
The introduction of the EU Blue Card in Cyprus is set to have a considerable positive effect on the nation’s economy. With proper conformity and organisation, the EU Blue Card can be the gateway to mutual growth for both Cyprus and the skilled individuals who choose to make it their new home. Interested employers and candidates should prepare early and seek guidance if needed to navigate the application process. Given the legal intricacies involved, consulting with an immigration law expert or a specialized attorney can ensure a smooth experience.
For inquiries or legal assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@kpklegal.com.
Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Readers are advised to consult with legal professionals for advice specific to their individual circumstances.