Housing
BENEFICIARIES OF INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION STATUS
The Refugee Law (No. 6(I)/2000) establishes the framework for the protection of refugees and protected persons, as defined by the Act, regardless of their ethnic origin. It outlines the fundamental principles for the treatment of asylum seekers, including their rights and obligations.
Key provisions include:
- Regulation of entry and the issuance of temporary residence permits within the Republic.
- Definition of the process for the recognition of refugee status.
- Establishment of the Asylum Service, which holds the general mandate for handling asylum applications.
This legislation ensures a structured and fair approach to managing asylum cases and safeguarding the rights of those seeking protection.
In Cyprus, there is no specific referral system for housing asylum seekers. However, under the Refugee Law (No. 6(I)/2000), asylum seekers have the legal right to reside freely within the Republic of Cyprus.
The State can provide designated housing for certain groups, including asylum seekers. However, if an asylum seeker declines this offered accommodation, they become ineligible for any housing-related benefits they might otherwise be entitled to claim.
The country has a single Reception Centre for Asylum Seekers, located in Kofinou, Larnaca district, with a capacity of approximately 400 individuals. The Center provides temporary accommodation for asylum seekers until they find more suitable and permanent housing. Priority is given to families with adolescent children, single women and/or persons with disability.
The maximum stay at the center is typically six months. If an asylum seeker's application is still under review after this period, the Social Welfare Services take responsibility for arranging alternative housing solutions.
Services Offered at the Reception Centre:
- Free meals
- Free shuttle services
- Social Care services
- Health services
- Administrative assistance as needed
Additionally, children of families residing in the center have access to appropriate services and support to meet their needs. Finally, people staying at the Centre receive a small amount of money for personal expenses.
There is currently not any active scheme providing housing opportunities for Refugees. While, they have the right to freely choose their place of residence and to travel within the Republic of Cyprus without restrictions, they are responsible for securing their own accommodation. They may apply for financial aid through the national Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI) scheme, which can include a rent allowance. However, to qualify for the rent allowance, a rental contract must already be in place. Additionally, the GMI scheme does not cover rent deposits.
There is currently not any active scheme providing housing opportunities for Beneficiaries of International Protection. While, they have the right to freely choose their place of residence and to travel within the Republic of Cyprus without restrictions, they are responsible for securing their own accommodation. They may apply for financial aid through the national Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI) scheme, which can include a rent allowance. However, to qualify for the rent allowance, a rental contract must already be in place. Additionally, the GMI scheme does not cover rent deposits.