Joint migration repatriation flights and enforcement operations in Cyprus

On August 26, 2026, Cyprus conducted its first joint forced return flight of third-country nationals in cooperation with the European border agency Frontex. This coordinated operation, supported by the Greek and Bulgarian authorities, resulted in the repatriation of 51 individuals residing illegally. Specifically, Cyprus returned 35 people, Greece 15, and Bulgaria one. This brings the total number of individuals repatriated from Cyprus since the beginning of 2026 to 6,027, achieved through both voluntary and forced return procedures.

Following this, on August 30, 2026, the Cypriot Aliens and Immigration Unit conducted an enforcement operation in the Larnaca district, resulting in the arrest of 50 third-country nationals for illegal residency. Authorities reported that 14 of those arrested have already been deported, while the remaining 34 were moved to a temporary accommodation facility to begin repatriation procedures. The operation targeted various individuals, including former students, workers, and failed asylum seekers. These actions reflect an intensification of the government's migration management policy, aiming to systematically process asylum claims and enforce the removal of individuals who lack legal status to remain in the country.