According to the latest data from the Cyprus Ministry of Migration, Russian citizens rank first among all foreigners in the number of residence permits issued. As of 30 September 2025, they held 40,735 out of 175,677 total permits. This confirms that Russians continue to show strong interest in Cyprus as one of the most attractive destinations for living, investment, and business. Deputy Minister of Migration Nicolas Ioannides also noted that around 200,000 third-country nationals currently reside legally on the island.
Migration Landscape: Who Else Chooses Cyprus
After Russians, the largest groups of residence permit holders are:
- UK — 16,279
- Nepal — 15,607
- India — 14,237
- Syria — 12,868
- China — 9,407
- Sri Lanka — 8,895
- Philippines — 8,807
- Ukraine — 6,172
- Egypt — 4,860
Another 37,810 permits belong to citizens of other countries, reflecting the multicultural nature of Cyprus. The island attracts professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors from all over the world.
Current Situation With Asylum and Migration Processes
The ministry continues to process a large number of asylum applications — more than 16,000 cases are still pending, while 16,153 applicants already hold international protection status. Ioannides noted that around 70% of all applications are ultimately rejected.
Additionally, about 6,500 migration-related cases are currently in the courts, and authorities continue working to resolve the status of individuals residing on the island illegally.
Since the change in Syria’s status, 4,007 Syrians have left Cyprus, and 4,379 requested the withdrawal of their asylum applications.
Funding and Key Initiatives of the Migration Ministry
The ministry’s budget is allocated as follows: 65% for current expenses and 35% for infrastructure development and digitalization. Among the current expenses:
- €8 million — strengthening migrant return policies
- €7.11 million — support for unaccompanied minors
- €17.3 million — construction of new facilities and accommodation centers
Modern Reforms and Digitalization of the Migration System
The ministry is actively introducing digital technologies and new security standards. Recent initiatives include:
- digitization of documents under the Civil Registry and Migration Department
- introduction of new secure passports, ID cards, and residence permits with enhanced biometrics (in cooperation with the Ministry of Interior)
Cyprus has also launched:
- the EU Blue Card program, allowing highly skilled professionals from third countries to work and reside on the island
- the Visitor Scheme, enabling third-country nationals to study in Cyprus’ maritime and aviation academies
Additionally, preparations are nearing completion for the launch of the RECAMAS integrated information system, which will manage return procedures for third-country nationals and streamline migration control.
Cyprus Strengthens Its Role as a Hub of International Mobility
The growing number of residence permits issued to Russians and other foreign nationals reflects continued confidence in Cyprus as a safe, stable, and investment-friendly jurisdiction.
The island is developing a transparent migration policy and modern tools for managing foreign populations while maintaining a balance between economic growth and social stability.