Cyprus police to procure vehicles for migrant returns

The Cyprus Police has announced a project to procure specialized vehicles to support the operations of the Aliens and Immigration Service. The initiative, titled “Procurement of Vehicles to Support the Return of Third-Country Nationals,” has a total budget of €2,494,987.90. This project is being implemented under the Asylum, Migration and Integration Fund, with co-funding provided by the European Union and the Republic of Cyprus.

According to official statements released on October 21, 2026, the primary goal of this procurement is to enhance the safety and transport conditions for both police personnel and foreign nationals during return procedures. Authorities expect that the introduction of these vehicles will lead to more effective management of migration flows and ensure consistent implementation of the EU acquis. Additionally, the project incorporates environmental objectives by selecting vehicles with lower fuel consumption to reduce the carbon footprint of the immigration service's operations.

The official announcements did not specify the exact number of vehicles to be acquired or a timeline for when they will enter into service. This measure follows an identified need to address increasing demands on the Aliens and Immigration Service, reinforcing the state's capacity to process and return third-country nationals who do not have legal status on the island.