What Is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a residence and work permit in Cyprus for highly skilled non-EU nationals. The programme enables qualified professionals to live and work in Cyprus while benefiting from enhanced mobility across the European Union. It allows them
to live and work in Cyprus or other EU countries under specific conditions. In addition to promoting professional mobility across the EU, the Blue Card offers key benefits such as family reunification.
Companies and professionals seeking assistance with the application process can learn more about our EU Blue Card in Cyprus services.
EU Blue Card Eligibility Requirements in Cyprus
To be eligible, a highly skilled third-country national must earn a gross annual salary of at least
€43,632. The Cyprus EU Blue Card is currently available for professionals working in sectors facing labour shortages, including ICT, pharmaceutical research and shipping. There is no limit on the number of EU Blue Cards that can be issued for jobs in Information
and Communication Technologies (ICT), pharmaceutical research, and the shipping sector
(excluding ship captains and crew). However, for all other sectors, no new Blue Cards are currently
being issued.
Family Reunification Rights for EU Blue Card Holders
Family members of Blue Card holders in Cyprus are covered by national family reunification laws. This means
they can apply at the same time, receive residence permits of equal duration, and enjoy free access to the
labour market, including self-employment.
Where family reunification requirements aren’t met, dependents can instead apply for a Temporary
Residence Permit as Visitors. This also applies to parents, partners in long-term relationships, and adult
children.
One of the main advantages of the EU Blue Card in Cyprus is the ability to relocate within participating EU Member States under simplified mobility rules.
EU Blue Card Mobility Across the European Union
The Blue Card allows two types of movement for the main applicant:
1
Short-term mobility permits up to 90 days in another EU country without extra formalities.
2
Long-term mobility allows a Blue Card holder who has lived in another EU country for at least 12
months to move to Cyprus for high-skilled work, provided a new application is submitted within one
month of arrival.
Applications are generally examined within 90 days. However, those applying through the long-term mobility scheme can expect a decision within 30 days.
Who Cannot Apply for an EU Blue Card in Cyprus?
Certain individuals are excluded from applying altogether, including asylum seekers, long-term
residents, posted workers, and those already residing in Cyprus illegally.
Benefits of the EU Blue Card in Cyprus
The EU Blue Card makes Cyprus an attractive destination for highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union. In addition to obtaining a residence and work permit in Cyprus, Blue Card holders benefit from family reunification rights, access to the local labour market and opportunities for mobility across EU Member States. The programme is particularly relevant for specialists in ICT, research and other high-demand sectors. As Cyprus continues to strengthen its position as an international business and technology hub, the EU Blue Card provides a clear pathway for skilled professionals seeking long-term career opportunities in Europe.