Who can apply for Asylum in Cyprus?
If you have fled your native country due to dangers to your life or freedom, you may seek international protection by claiming asylum in Cyprus.
Specifically as mentioned by UNHCR a person can apply for asylum under specific circumstances, such as:
- You cannot or don’t want to return to your country if you fear persecution. The reasons can be your race, religion, nationality, political opinions, or involvement with a specific social group.
- You are unable or unwilling to return to your home country because you are afraid of suffering serious and unjustified harm. Examples are death penalty or execution, torture or inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment.
- In instances of international or domestic armed conflict, indiscriminate violence poses a significant and individual threat.
First you need to apply for Asylum seeker with the National Asylum Service. After your apply, you will be considered an Asylum Seeker and not a Recognized Refugee as many think.
Understanding the Asylum
When you apply for asylum seeker status with the National Asylum Service, keep in mind that you are not immediately accepted as a refugee. In reality, you are still considered an asylum seeker until your application is accepted.
There is an important distinction between the two names. Asylum seekers are people who have fled their native country because of persecution, war, or other forms of violence. They are seeking asylum in a new nation and have sought for protection from their native country.
A recognized refugee, on the other hand, is someone who has been given legal protection by the government of the nation where they are seeking asylum. This indicates that their asylum petition was granted, and they now have the right to live and work in the new nation as a refugee.
It is critical to note that not all asylum applicants will be considered refugees. The application procedure can be time-consuming and complex, and many circumstances can influence the result of an asylum claim. If you are seeking asylum, it is critical that you understand your rights and the legal process for requesting refugee status. Seek tools and assistance to help you get through this tough time, and keep in mind that you are not alone.
Asylum Seekers Rights in Cyprus
Asylum seekers in Cyprus have the right to financial assistance from the government while they await a judgement on their refugee status. This financial help is critical for many asylum seekers, who are frequently left without means of support or income while their asylum application is being processed.
The Cyprus government’s financial assistance can help pay basic requirements such as food, clothes, and housing, as well as medical expenditures and other required charges. This assistance is meant to assist asylum seekers in maintaining a minimum quality of life while they await a judgment on their status.
Asylum seekers in Cyprus can receive financial aid from the government, with a total amount of €361 provided for an individual, and up to €1,155 for a family of five.
Also Asylum Seekers enjoy the
- Right to stay in the Republic of Cyprus under their application is examined and decision is made.
- Right to move freely in the Republic of Cyprus
- Right to Access the National Healthcare Services
- Right to Work (after one month of your Application)
Voluntary Return to Home Country:
In case you decide you want to get your passport back and voluntary return to your Home country, you have the right to ask for cash and a free airplane ticket. The government will provide you with €300 and a Free airplane ticket and escort you to the airport.
Asylum Decision in Cyprus: How it Works
If your application for asylum in Cyprus is rejected by the Asylum Service, it’s important to know that you have the right to appeal the decision before the Cyprus Administrative Court. Appealing a rejected asylum application can be a complex and challenging process, but with the help of an experienced immigration lawyer, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of success.
Before any interviews with the Asylum Service or the Administrative Court, it’s important to consult with an immigration lawyer. An immigration lawyer can help you prepare for the interview, understand your legal rights, and provide guidance on how to present your case effectively. If the interview goes wrong, it could have serious consequences for your entire application, and even result in deportation.
During the appeal process, you will need to provide evidence to support your asylum claim, and argue that the decision to reject your application was wrong. The Administrative Court will review your case and make a new decision based on the evidence presented.
It’s important to note that the appeal process can be lengthy and time-consuming. For that reason it’s essential to work with an immigration lawyer who has experience with asylum cases in Cyprus.
With the right legal guidance, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of success in appealing a rejected asylum application.
Become a Recognized Refugee in Cyprus
If your asylum application is approved in Cyprus, you will be granted a Recognized Refugee card, International, or Subsidiary Protection. This documentation is an important step towards obtaining permanent residence and eventually becoming a Cypriot citizen.
Once you obtain the Permanent Residency, you can bring your family to Cyprus with the Family Reunification process.
It’s important to work with an experienced immigration lawyer who can help guide you through the process of obtaining permanent residence and citizenship in Cyprus as a recognized refugee. With the right support and documentation, you can achieve your goal of becoming a Cypriot citizen and enjoying all the benefits that come with it.
Trust our Immigration Lawyers to expertly manage your procedure with meticulous care. From beginning to end, we’ll ensure that the process is handled efficiently and effectively. Contact us today to experience our professional service firsthand.