Frequently Asked Questions from New Parents in Cyprus
At Caritas Cyprus, we often receive questions from parents—especially newcomers—about citizenship, travel rights, breastfeeding, and administrative procedures related to their children. Here are some helpful answers to guide you.
1. Does having a baby in Cyprus automatically grant Cypriot citizenship?
No. In Cyprus, citizenship is not determined by the place of birth but by the nationality of the parents.
- If both parents are from the same country, the child will usually receive that nationality.
- If the parents have different nationalities, they can decide together which one to give to the child.
- If one parent is Cypriot, it is possible to apply for Cypriot nationality for the child, but this requires an official application and approval by the relevant authorities.
2. My baby has a European passport, but I am not European. Can I move to another EU country?
Not automatically.
- If you are an asylum seeker, you cannot move to another country until your case is decided or closed.
- Your child may be able to travel to countries where their passport grants entry, but this does not give you, as the parent, the right to live there without the proper visa.
- Being the parent of an EU citizen does not guarantee free movement within the EU.
3. Breast milk or formula: which is better?
Breast milk nutrients are better absorbed and are the best choice for your baby’s brain growth and nervous system development. While each family’s situation is different, breastfeeding offers significant nutritional advantages.
4. When and how should I start breastfeeding?
It’s best to start as soon as the baby is born.
- The earlier you start, the more you encourage milk production.
- Without stimulation (either breastfeeding or expressing milk), milk production usually stops within 7–10 days.
5. For official documents: is the mother’s signature enough?
If the birth certificate lists two parents, both are considered decision-makers for important matters like the child’s legal status, schooling, and healthcare. In most cases, official documents about the child must be signed by both parents.