Voluntary Returns

If you would like to return to your country but do not have means to do so, you may ask the authorities for help.

Important Notes: The assisted voluntary return program is only for third country nationals (migrants and asylum seekers) who are undocumented.  If you have an appeal in court or any other court case open, you will be asked to close your case(s). If you are not willing or cannot, the authorities will not be able to proceed. 

Possibility 1 – Assisted Voluntary Return: You will travel within 2-3 months, receive assistance to arrange your travel docs, and a financial incentive provided at the airport prior to departure. Please note that financial incentives depend on the country of origin, see the document below. You can apply at the Migration Department in Nicosia or any Immigration Office.

Note Exception: No financial assistance is given to persons with a criminal record.

Possibility 2 – Joint Reintegration Services: You will not receive a lump sum upon departure, but you will receive some financial support and significant post-travel assistance upon arrival and during first year of reintegration. The authorities will ask you to present a plan for re-integration in your country and they will decide whether you will qualify for this option.  You can apply at the Migration Department in Nicosia.

Contact Information for the Migration Department Returns Office and Immigration Offices:

For more information please visit the Migration Department’s webpage on the Assisted Voluntary Returns Program. For your convenience, we have included the main brochures below.

• Assisted Voluntary Return brochure
• Incentives for Voluntary Return summary

Photo Credit: Migration Department brochure