More than 570 unallocated state plots will be distributed to families in the coming period under a new Ministry of Interior scheme, with concession prices set at 25% of their market value.
According to the Ministry of Interior, access to affordable housing is a fundamental prerequisite for social cohesion and citizen well-being. To this end, the government is implementing a series of housing measures aimed at creating more, higher-quality, and more affordable housing options for the public.
Scheme Objectives and Eligibility
The Ministry of Interior is proceeding with the implementation of the new Plot Allocation Scheme for Families based on income criteria in communities islandwide. Plots will be allocated at 25% of their market value, creating a substantial opportunity for young, low-, and middle-income families to acquire land and build their own homes for owner-occupation.
Immediately, more than 570 existing unallocated state plots resulting from previous divisions will be distributed to beneficiaries across all districts. Additionally, the scheme provides for the creation of new plots through state land divisions in communities expressing interest in participating.
In a recorded statement, Minister of Interior Konstantinos Ioannou pointed out that through the scheme, the government aims to expand housing options while utilizing available state land for the benefit of society, particularly young families. According to Ioannou, the scheme has a dual objective: supporting families facing difficulties in acquiring private homes and contributing to the revitalization of rural communities, particularly mountain, remote, and disadvantaged areas.
Key Provisions and Criteria
The scheme applies exclusively to communities across all districts, including 63 communities incorporated into municipalities. Beneficiaries include Cypriot citizens who form couples with or without children, as well as single-parent families.
- At least one member of the couple must be under 45 years of age at the time of application.
- At least one member must be a permanent resident of the community where the plots are located or a neighboring community within a distance equal to or less than 15 kilometers.
- Annual gross family income must not exceed specified limits, ranging from EUR 45,000 for couples or single-parent families up to EUR 65,000 for families with five or more members.
The allocation of plots will follow a priority order, starting with local natives residing permanently in the community, displaced persons living in the community, internal returnees, and permanent residents of neighboring communities within 15 kilometers. Beneficiaries are required to complete home construction within three years of signing the concession agreement. Transfer of the plot before construction completion is prohibited, and sale or alienation of the home is barred for five years from its completion date.
For new state land divisions, particular emphasis will be placed on mountain, remote, and disadvantaged areas following expressions of interest submitted to respective district administrations.
