New Rules for Third Country Nationals
The Civil Registry and Migration Department of Cyprus implemented important changes to the procedures facilitating the entry of third country nationals in Cyprus for employment purposes.
Cyprus’ immigration legislation currentlyrequires third country nationals working for companies in Cyprus to physically attend an appointment at the Cypriot Immigration office in order to provide their biometric data (fingerprints and photograph) and signature.
Application and Registration Procedure Details
If an application is submitted for an entry permit, then following the granting of the permit and the arrival of the third country national in Cyprus, the applicant must register at the Migration Department in Nicosia or at the district Immigration Unit where the applicant resides, within seven days of arrival in Cyprus.
Biometric Data Retention Policy
It should be noted that the captured fingerprints are deleted from the Aliens’ Register within 48 hours after the issuance of the residence permit.
Impact on Existing Residence Permits
Third country nationals with work and temporary residence permits issued under the previous legislation will not be affected by the new rules and their permits will remain valid until their expiry; however, upon renewal of their permit, they will be obliged to comply with the new rules and provide their biometric data to the Civil Registry and Migration Department of Cyprus.
