The Cyprus Cabinet has formally approved the National Strategy for the Integration of Migrants 2026-2029, establishing the Republic’s first comprehensive policy framework for legally residing migrants.
Approved on February 4, 2026, following a proposal by the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection, the strategy creates a targeted and measurable framework to address long-standing coordination gaps. According to a ministry announcement issued on Saturday, the policy aims to safeguard social cohesion and economic prosperity for both the local population and migrants.
The strategy defines integration as a dynamic, two-way process of mutual respect and responsibility. Key pillars for sustainable integration include proficiency in the Greek language, legal employment, and a substantial understanding of the country’s institutional framework.
The Four Strategic Objectives
The strategy is built around four central pillars:
- Socioeconomic Integration: Prioritizing Greek language learning, employment, education, skill development, and access to social services.
- Public Awareness: Efforts to combat stereotypes and increase public understanding of migration.
- Healthcare Access: Ensuring migrants have clear pathways to medical services.
- Policy Alignment: Harmonizing legislation to ensure actions are not hindered by existing legal or political rules.
Tackling “Ghettoization” and Daily Life
The policy places significant emphasis on daily living conditions, including housing, mobility, health, and participation in culture and sports. Crucially, the strategy aims to address the phenomenon of “ghettoization”—the over-concentration of foreigners in specific urban and rural areas.
Progress will be monitored via Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and standardized reporting tools. A new Advisory Committee, chaired by the Director General of the Deputy Ministry of Migration, will oversee implementation. This committee will include representatives from independent supervisory bodies, academics, international organizations, and civil society.
«Properly organized integration constitutes an investment in the country’s human resources,» the Ministry stated, adding that targeted interventions allow those living and working legally in Cyprus to contribute productively to the economy.
The implementation of the strategy is expected to strengthen social cohesion and sustainable development while ensuring respect for the values and institutions of the state.
