Cyprus begins forced deportations of Syrian nationals

The Republic of Cyprus has commenced the forced deportation of Syrian nationals whose asylum applications were rejected, making it one of the few European Union member states to implement such measures. According to the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection, led by Deputy Minister Nicholas Ioannides, the move follows the exhaustion of legal appeals through the International Protection Administrative Court. State authorities are also actively revoking subsidiary protection status for some individuals and accelerating the rejection of manifestly unfounded claims.

This development follows a period of stability in Syria after the change of government in Damascus in December 2024. Between June and October 2026, the government operated an EU-funded voluntary return program offering financial incentives, such as 2,000 euros for adult spouses and 1,500 euros per child, alongside two-year work visas for one family member. While over 5,000 Syrians chose to return voluntarily under these terms, approximately 1,500 individuals had their asylum requests denied.

Cypriot authorities have warned that enforcement measures will intensify, urging those remaining illegally to utilize voluntary return options. Further deportations are planned as the ministry continues to review the status of foreign nationals currently residing in the country without valid legal authorization.