Cyprus Prepares to Accept Applications for the EU Blue Card

Cyprus Prepares to Accept Applications for the EU Blue Card

Cyprus is getting ready to launch the EU Blue Card program. According to our information, the migration service will start accepting applications in mid-summer.

As a reminder, the EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit that allows highly qualified third-country nationals to live and work in EU countries (except Denmark and Ireland).

The application process and criteria have already been agreed upon, and we are excited to share exclusive information with you.

Card Validity Period:

• Standard validity: 36 months (depending on passport validity and employment contract).
• If the employment contract is less than 24 months, the card is valid for the contract duration + 3 months (maximum 24 months).

Objectives and Benefits:

• Attracting and retaining highly qualified professionals to drive innovation, economic growth, and EU competitiveness.
• Addressing labor shortages in key sectors such as IT, pharmaceuticals, and shipping.
• Providing flexibility and mobility for highly skilled workers within the EU and EEA.

Who Can Apply?

• Third-country nationals (non-EU/EEA citizens).
• Must have higher education or professional skills (e.g., in IT).
• Must have an employment contract of at least 6 months with a salary of ≥ €43,632 (1.5 times the average annual salary in Cyprus).

Application Process in Cyprus:

• Application Submission

The employer submits the application with the required documents and pays the fees.

• Entry and Biometric Data Collection

The applicant must enter Cyprus within 3 months after receiving entry approval.

Biometric data (photo, fingerprints) must be collected within 3 days of arrival.

• Approval and Card Issuance

Application processing takes up to 3 months.

If approved, the Blue Card is issued within 30 days.

Key Rights of Blue Card Holders:

• Residence & Work – Free movement within Cyprus and access to high-skilled jobs.
• Changing Employers – Allowed after 12 months without restrictions.
• Unemployment – The Blue Card remains valid for up to 3 or 6 months of unemployment.

Mobility:

• Short-term – Up to 90 days in other EU countries.
• Long-term – Ability to move to another EU country for work after 12 months.
• Family Reunification – Spouses and children can join the Blue Card holder with the same residence permit duration.
• Path to Permanent Residency – Available after 5 years of continuous residence in the EU.

Renewal Procedure:

• The renewal request must be submitted before the current card expires.
• Updated documents and fees are required.
• Processing time: 1 month for approval.

Note: The content of this article is relevant at the time of its first publication. It is intended to provide general information on the topic and does not constitute legal advice. We recommend seeking professional advice regarding your specific matter before taking action based on the information presented. For more information or consultation, please contact our tax experts by email at contact@mainpartnertrust.com

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