The Cyprus Blue Card is a work and residence permit designed to attract highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. By offering a streamlined pathway to employment, residence, and long-term mobility across the European Union, Cyprus positions itself as an attractive destination for international talent, particularly in industries that are rapidly growing and in need of expertise.
A third-country national who holds a valid Cyprus Blue Card issued by the Republic is entitled to enter and stay in one or more Member States for the purpose of carrying out a business activity for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, on the basis of the Blue Card, a valid travel document and evidence of the business purpose of the stay.
What Is the Cyprus Blue Card?
The Cyprus Blue Card enables qualified non-EU nationals to live and work in Cyprus while enjoying key benefits such as family reunification, visa-free travel across the EU, and a potential path to permanent residence and citizenship. To read more about the citizenship requirements under the fast track program, click here.
It also facilitates mobility within the EU, offering flexibility for career growth and relocation opportunities. Mobility comes in two forms:
- Short-Term Mobility – third-country national who holds a valid EU Blue Card issued by a Member State is entitled to enter and stay in the areas controlled by the government of Cyprus for the purpose of carrying out a business activity for up to 90 days in any 180-day period, on the basis of the EU Blue Card, a valid travel document and evidence of the business purpose of the stay. Details of the exact evidence that needs to be provided are still to be clarified by the migration department.
- Long-Term Mobility – It is the possibility of entry and residence in a second Member State for the purpose of highly qualified employment for the Blue Card holder and his family members after 12 months of legal residence in the first Member State upon submission of an application.
After 12 months of legal residence in the first Member State, other than the Republic, as an EU Blue Card holder, the third-country national is entitled to enter, reside and work in the areas controlled by the government of Cyprus for the purpose of highly qualified employment on the basis of the EU Blue Card and a valid travel document.
In this case, the EU Blue Card holder must obtain a Blue Card (in card form) from Cyprus, upon submission of an application, provided that he/she meets the provisions of the legislation (article 18ΤΘ). For the purpose of convenience, the conditions and documents on the basis of which it is proven that the requirements are met, have been included in the list of documents that must be presented with the applications for an EU Blue Card.
The EU Blue Card holder is allowed to commence work in the Republic not later than 30 days after the date of submission of the complete application, even if a decision on the application has not yet been taken. The application can be submitted to the competent authorities of the second Member State while the EU Blue Card holder is still residing in the territory of the first Member State. The EU Blue Card holder is entitled to enter the Republic by presenting the Blue Card of the first Member State, i.e. without an entry permit or visa.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Cyprus Blue Card, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Employment in specific high-demand sectors:
- Information & Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Pharmaceuticals (research roles only)
- Maritime (excluding ship captains and crew)
- Hold a higher education diploma of at least three years. For ICT professionals, professional experience of at least three years in the past seven years may substitute for academic qualifications.
- A valid employment contract of at least six months.
- A minimum annual salary of €43,632 (€3,636 gross monthly).
These requirements ensure that the Blue Card targets highly skilled and well-compensated professionals, aligning with the EU’s broader goal of attracting global talent.
Duration & Processing Times
- The Blue Card is valid for 24 to 36 months, depending on the duration of the employment contract.
- If the contract is shorter, the card will be issued for the contract period plus three months, capped at 24 months.
Applications shall be examined within 90 days, provided that they are duly completed. Otherwise, the deadline counts from the date of submission of the completed application. Applications for an EU Blue Card for the purpose of long-term mobility shall be examined within 30 days, provided that they are duly completed.
In case an application for an EU Blue Card has been submitted, that has not yet been examined, then re-entry to the Republic can be obtained with the payment receipt provided after the submission of the application fees, which bears a stamp allowing re-entry into Cyprus.
Benefits of the Cyprus Blue Card
Holders of the Cyprus Blue Card enjoy several key advantages:
- Re-entry rights – Card holders can re-enter Cyprus even after long absences.
- Family reunification – Eligible family members may join the applicant, creating stability and support for relocation.
- Employment flexibility – If employment is lost, the card remains valid for up to 3 months (during the first two years) or 6 months (after two years).
- Intra-EU mobility – After 12 months, holders may move permanently to another EU Member State for new career opportunities.
- Secure residence – Maximum validity of up to three years provides a stable base for long-term settlement.
Together, these benefits make the Cyprus EU Blue Card more than just a work permit — it is a platform for professional growth, family security, and future EU integration.
Application Process
The application process requires careful preparation and compliance with Cyprus’s migration and labour regulations. The main steps include:
- Document preparation – Collecting all required documentation from both employee and employer.
- Submission – Filing the complete application with the Migration Department.
- Employment assessment – The Department of Labour reviews the employment terms to confirm eligibility.
- Verification – The Migration Department checks the supporting documents for compliance.
- Issuance – The Blue Card is issued within 90 days of submission.
Importantly, applicants who are still awaiting approval can re-enter Cyprus using the official stamped payment receipt from their application fee.
How Can Altus Citadel Help You?
At Altus Citadel, we specialise in guiding highly skilled professionals and employers through every step of the Blue Card application process. From initial eligibility assessment and document preparation to submission and follow-up, our team ensures a smooth, efficient, and compliant process. Feel free to contact us at marketing@altuscitadel.com or call at +357 22 252 774.
You can view the official announcement on the introduction of the Cyprus Blue Card by clicking here.
