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Travelling

Below are the services we provide. Click on each one to find out more.

BENEFICIARIES OF INTERNATIONAL PROTECTION STATUS

Asylum seekers

Asylum seekers based on humanitarian grounds can apply for the examination for a travel document to the Migration Department.

Beneficiaries of Subsidiary Protection

Individuals that hold the status of Subsidiary Protection status based on humanitarian grounds can apply for a travel document to the Migration Department. Specific procedures have to apply.

  1. Residence Permit
  • Beneficiaries of subsidiary protection status must apply for a reneable residence permit of one year. This permit is renewable for two-year periods, for the duration of the status.
  1. Travel Document
  • For the purposes of travelling outside Cyprus, subsidiary protection beneficiaries are issued with a laissez-passer comprising of a one-page A4 document for a single journey.
  • This document however does not meet the international and EU standards and as such you will most likely be unable to travel with this document.
Recognized Refugees

Recognized refugees are entitled to specific rights related to travel, governed by international and national laws.

1. Residence Permit

  • Recognized refugees must apply for a residence permit, which is valid for three years and can be renewed for additional three-year periods.

2. Travel Document

  • Refugees can apply for a Convention Travel Document (CTD), issued under the 1951 Refugee Convention, which allows for international travel.
  • These documents are generally recognized across member states for refugees needing to travel abroad.

3. Travel to EU Countries

  • No visa is required for stays of up to three months in EU member states, aligning with the Schengen visa-free rules for refugees holding valid CTDs.

4. Visa Requirements

2. Restrictions

  • Travel back to the country of origin using refugee travel documents is strictly prohibited, as it could conflict with the individual's refugee status, which is granted due to persecution in that country.

THIRD COUNTRY NATIONALS

Domestic Workers

Employers of domestic workers are required to cover the travel costs for the employee’s arrival in Cyprus and provide a return ticket when the contract is terminated. However, if the employee travels back to their home country for annual leave holidays, will bear the cost of traveling; the employer is not responsible for covering the flight ticket costs.

Students

Students from non-European countries studying at a Higher Education Institute in Cyprus, can travel to other countries, including EU member states. However, they must be mindful of Cyprus’s unique status as non-Schengen EU country; holding a Cypriot visa or residence permit does not automatically grant the right to travel to EU/Schengen countries. A separate Schengen visa must be obtained for travel to Schengen member states

Being a resident in Cyprus could make it easier to apply for a Schengen visa, allowing travel within the Schengen zone under specific conditions:

1. Travel to Schengen Countries

      • Students need to apply for a Schengen visa to visit Schengen-area countries.
      • Approval depends on individual circumstances, the purpose of the visit, and the country issuing the visa.

2. Facilitation Due to EU Residency

      • Being a resident of Cyprus (an EU country) may simplify the visa process, as applicants already demonstrate ties to an EU member state. However, visa policies vary between Schengen countries.

3. Strategies for a Multi-Entry Visa

      • Research which Schengen countries are more likely to issue a multiple-entry visa valid for an extended period.
      • Prepare a strong application, including evidence of financial stability, valid travel insurance, and ties to Cyprus (e.g., proof of study).

4. Planning and Research

    • Each Schengen country has its own consular procedures, and requirements can differ. Visit the embassy or consulate website of the intended country for the most accurate and updated information.