Medical Cards in Cyprus: What you Need to Know!
If you live in Cyprus and need medical care, having the right medical card is essential. There are two types of medical cards in circulation:
- Type 07 – For asylum seekers
- Type 05 – For persons with permission to live in Cyprus, including recognized refugees and subsidiary protection holders
Here’s how they work and how to apply.
📌Type 07 Medical Card – For Asylum Seekers
If you are an asylum seeker, you have free access to medical care.
- During the first year: You can use your Confirmation Letter to receive medical care at public hospitals. Your first year starts from the Submission Date in the top left corner of your Confirmation Letter.
- After the first year: You will need a Type 07 Medical Card to continue receiving free healthcare.
Make sure your medical card reads 07 on the top.
📌Type 05 Medical Card – For Recognized Refugees & Residents
A Type 05 Medical Card is used for:
Accessing healthcare during the “gap period” (after being granted international protection but before receiving a residence permit)
Dental care at state services (€6 per visit)
ℹ️ How to Apply for a Type 05 Medical Card
Where to apply:
- Ministry of Health
- Citizen Service Office
Documents required:
- Completed application form – Download here
- Residence permit OR Asylum Service Decision (if still waiting for the permit)
- Labor card (if unemployed) OR Statement of Social Insurance contributions (if employed for at least 3 years)
ℹ️ Who Cannot Receive a Type 05 Medical Card?
You are not eligible for a Type 05 Medical Card if:
- You or a family member works but does not meet the 3-year Social Insurance contribution requirement
- Your annual household income exceeds:
- €15,400 for a single-person household
- €30,750 for a household of two adults (+ €1,700 for each additional family member)
ℹ️ Medical Care During the “Gap Period”
If you have been granted international protection but haven’t received your residence permit yet, you will need a Type 05 Medical Card to access healthcare.
For more details, check out our post: Mind The Gap: How to Access Healthcare While Waiting for GESY Registration.
Having the right medical card ensures you can access the healthcare services you need. If you need assistance with your application, reach out for support.