New measures in Cyprus: foreign criminals to be deported without trial

The Government of Cyprus has called on parliament to expedite the review of a bill providing for the deportation of foreign nationals involved in criminal activity. The document, prepared by the Ministry of the Interior, aims to strengthen control over migration flows and enhance public safety.

As explained by Minister of the Interior Constantinos Ioannou, current legislation limits the state's ability to respond quickly in cases where foreigners commit crimes or pose a threat to public order. The new bill amends the Aliens and Immigration Law, giving authorities the right to deport such individuals even before court proceedings are completed, if their presence is deemed a security risk.

According to the minister, recent years have seen an increase in cases where individuals with temporary residence permits become involved in criminal schemes — from human trafficking and drug trade to violent incidents. Ioannou stressed that the government considers it unacceptable for foreigners who abuse the trust of the host country to remain on the island by exploiting gaps in legal procedures.

The bill also proposes simplifying administrative deportation procedures, expanding the powers of the Migration Department and strengthening cooperation between the police and judiciary. One of the proposals includes creating a unified registry of individuals considered undesirable for residence in the Republic.

Authorities emphasize that the document is not directed against legal foreign workers or students living in Cyprus, but exclusively concerns those involved in criminal activity. Opposition representatives, in turn, called on the government to ensure a balance between security and human rights, warning of possible abuses when applying the new measures.

The minister expressed hope that parliament will approve the bill in the coming weeks, allowing it to enter into force before the end of the year. According to him, this will be an important step in strengthening public order and protecting law-abiding citizens — both Cypriots and foreigners residing on the island.