Cyprus Approves New Migrant Integration Strategy

The Government of Cyprus has approved a new national strategy for the integration of migrants, aimed at strengthening social cohesion and the country’s economic stability. The document was approved on 4 February 2026 following a proposal by the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection.

According to the official statement, the strategy seeks to address long-standing coordination problems and to create a clear, measurable integration system for both the local population and migrants. The authorities emphasize that integration is viewed as a two-way process based on mutual respect, responsibility, and active participation.

The strategy is built around knowledge of the Greek language, legal employment, and an understanding of the state’s institutional framework. These elements are identified as key conditions for integration:

The document is based on four main pillars:

• Socio-economic integration — learning the Greek language, access to the labor market, education, skills development, and social services;
• Public awareness — combating stereotypes and increasing public awareness about migration;
• Access to healthcare — ensuring clear and equal pathways to medical care;
• Policy alignment — adapting legislation and public practices for the effective implementation of measures.

Special attention in the strategy is given to everyday living conditions: housing, mobility, healthcare, as well as migrants’ participation in cultural and sporting life. A separate objective is the fight against so-called “ghettoization” — the excessive concentration of foreigners in certain urban and rural areas.

Key performance indicators (KPIs) and standardized reports will be used to monitor the implementation of the strategy. An Advisory Committee will also be established under the chairmanship of the Director General of the Deputy Ministry of Migration. Its members will include representatives of independent bodies, academia, international organizations, and civil society.

The ministry emphasized that “well-organized integration is an investment in the country’s human capital,” enabling people who legally live and work in Cyprus to make a full contribution to the economy and social life.