Family Reunification for Refugees in Cyprus
Obtaining refugee status in Cyprus grants you the right to apply for family reunification, allowing you to bring your spouse and minor children to join you in Cyprus. This guide outlines the process and requirements for applying for family reunification.
Who Can Apply?
Only individuals who have been granted refugee status (not subsidiary protection) can apply for family reunification.
When to Apply?
It is recommended to apply within three months of receiving your Asylum Service Decision to avoid potential delays.
Steps to Apply for Family Reunification
Step 1: Submit an Application
You must submit a request for family reunification to the Migration Department in Nicosia. This letter should include the names of your family members and a request for their reunification with you in Cyprus.
Documents to Include:
- Copies of family members’ birth certificates
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Copies of family members’ passports (if available)
- Your Asylum Service Decision
Step 2: Application Review by the Migration Department
The Migration Department will examine your application and send you a response.
- If approved: You will be asked to submit additional documents, including:
- Original passports and birth/marriage certificates
- For children, a school attendance certificate may be required
- If rejected: You may need legal assistance to appeal the decision.
Step 3: Applying for an Entry Visa
Once your application is approved, the required documents must be submitted to the Cyprus Consulate responsible for your country of origin along with an application for an entry visa to Cyprus.
Step 4: Arrival in Cyprus and Residence Permit Application
Upon arrival, family members must:
- Apply for Family Unity status at the Asylum Service.
- Submit an application for a residence permit at the Migration Department.
Processing Time & Challenges
The family reunification process can take up to a year or longer, depending on various factors such as document verification and government processing times. It is important to ensure that all documents are correctly submitted to prevent unnecessary delays.
Need Help?
If you require assistance with your application, seek help from Cyprus Refugee Council (22205959📞) who also monitor the process.
For more information, visit the official Migration Department website: Migration Department Cyprus.
Edited to protect privacy: I am still waiting for an answer from the immigration office regarding my application for a family visa.
Please guide me. Thank you.
Please call our Help Line (9 am – 11 am weekdays, English, French, and Greek: 99601260 or Arabic: 99476101). We cannot provide detailed advice in this forum without compromising you personal information.
Hello im T. a recognise refugee in Cyprus I’m pregnant now and I’m married and my husband is not working cause he don’t have status in Cyprus
He got rejected as and asylum seeker
N I’m almost due I really need help🥲🥲
No one to help us can help get status to work?
Hi T.,
Please contact our helpline at 99601260 between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM. A caseworker will answer your questions and give you advice.
If your husband has been rejected twice (by the Asylum Services and the Court), he no longer has the right to work in Cyprus. Nevertheless, depending on your legal status and personal situation, you may be eligible for government support for pregnant women.
We also offer an information session called “Having a Baby in Cyprus”, where our specialist explains your rights and the procedures for giving birth in Cyprus. The next session will be on Thursday, October 30 at 4:00 PM.
You’re very welcome to join us at our Center in Nicosia (Old Town, Paphos Gate) to ask questions and receive guidance regarding your pregnancy.