In July 2024, the House of Representatives enacted a key amendment to the Aliens and Immigration Law (Cap. 105), aligning it with Directive (EU) 2021/1883. This pivotal update introduces the EU Blue Card scheme in Cyprus, facilitating the entry and residence of highly skilled non-EU workers in the European Union.

This article carefully outlines the key amendments, namely concerning admission criteria, validity requirements, and benefits as listed below:

Admission criteria

Requisite Documentation:

• Employment contract or job offer valid for at least six months for a highly skilled position.
• Professional qualifications:

-  A highly skilled person must have either a higher education degree (minimum 3 years of study) or at least 3 years of professional experience, particularly in the technology sector.

-  For regulated professions: applicants must meet the legally mandated qualifications for practicing in the regulated sector.

-  For non-regulated professions: applicants must possess high-level of qualifications relating to their sector of employment.

• Travel document valid for the duration of the requested EU Blue Card.
• Proof of health insurance that covers all risks not covered under the employment contract.
• An address in Cyprus.

Salary Requirements:

• The salary must meet the national threshold, set between 1 to 1.6 times of the average gross salary.
• For certain high demand professions and in the case of recent graduates holding a higher education degree, the minimum wage may be reduced to eighty percent (80%) of the average gross salary.

The EU Blue Card is initially valid for at least 24 months and can be renewed up to 3 months before its expiration.

Blue Card holders enjoy the same treatment as Cyprus citizens in key areas, notably in employment (working conditions, salary, and other job-related benefits), education and social security.  Further, Blue Card holders can bring their family members to join them in Cyprus with equal access to employment and education. With twelve months of legal residence in Cyprus, Blue Card holders can move and work freely in any other EU member state, enabling highly skilled professionals to work all across the EU.

Evidently, the introduction of the EU Blue Card scheme will further enhance Cyprus’s economy by attracting highly skilled professionals and boosting innovation and growth in key sectors like IT. This influx of talent is expected to drive technological advancements and business opportunities, fostering a more dynamic and competitive market. Our firm is uniquely prepared to help businesses navigate the new rules and capitalize on these opportunities.