The Republic of Cyprus is dealing with a complex situation regarding migration. On one hand, the country is successfully reducing the number of migrants arriving unofficially. On the other hand, the European Union (EU) now officially recognizes it as a country that needs help managing this issue. At the same time, the country is making symbolic changes at its borders, like removing separate passport control lines for Turkish Cypriots.
Government data for 2025 shows a large drop in irregular arrivals. The number has fallen by 87% since 2022, with only 2,281 people arriving this year. Officials have also sent back over 10,000 people. The government says these numbers show that its strict policies are working well.
However, the European Commission believes Cyprus still faces a big challenge. Because of this, Cyprus will automatically get support from a new EU system starting in mid-2026. This system will provide money and help by moving some asylum seekers to other EU countries. This shows that Europe thinks Cyprus is dealing with a lot of pressure.
Cyprus also has a very strict asylum process. It rejects about 70% of all applications, which is the lowest acceptance rate in the area. This shows the government's firm approach.
In another important change, Cyprus recently ended its system of separate passport checks for Turkish Cypriots at border crossings. Now, everyone uses the same lines. The police said this change was needed to improve the process. This is a small but meaningful step in the daily life of people on the island.
Together, these events show a country that is carefully managing its borders and its relationships.