As of 7 July 2025, Cyprus has officially launched the EU Blue Card scheme, marking a major step forward in opening the local labour market to highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. This development brings substantial benefits for both employers looking to fill skill gaps and job seekers aiming to build long-term careers in Europe.
The announcement was made by the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection.
What is the EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card is a unified work and residence permit that allows third-country nationals (i.e. non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens) to live and work in Cyprus and other participating EU member states (excluding Denmark and Ireland). Designed to attract highly qualified professionals, it facilitates cross-border mobility, simplifies hiring for employers, and sets a clear path to long-term EU residency.
Eligibility Requirements in Cyprus
To qualify for an EU Blue Card in Cyprus, the applicant must meet the following:
- A job offer or employment contract of at least 6 months
- A minimum gross annual salary of €43,632
- A university degree (minimum 3 years of study) or at least 3 years of relevant professional experience within the last 7 years
Applicable Sectors in Cyprus
The scheme in Cyprus is currently open to roles in the following key sectors:
- Information and Communication Technologies (ICT)
- Pharmaceuticals – limited to research-based positions
- Shipping – excluding captains and crew roles
This selective approach helps align with national priorities and ensures demand-driven migration, while offering companies in these sectors access to global talent.
Benefits for Employers
For companies in Cyprus, particularly in the eligible industries, the Blue Card scheme is an opportunity to source skilled professionals without exhausting local talent pools. Key advantages include:
- No quota limits for eligible roles
- Streamlined hiring for hard-to-fill positions
- Opportunity to attract top-tier talent from outside the EU
- No need to sponsor a full relocation package, candidates can move under their own permit
- Improved retention due to the long-term benefits the Blue Card provides to employees
Moreover, any Cyprus-registered employer (not just international or multinational companies) can sponsor an EU Blue Card holder, as long as they meet the salary and compliance requirements.
Advantages for Job Seekers
For high-skilled non-EU professionals, the EU Blue Card offers a clear pathway into the European workforce. Some of the most notable benefits include:
- Legal residence and work rights in Cyprus and later in other EU states
- Equal treatment with local citizens in terms of employment conditions, pay, education, and social security
- Family reunification – dependents can join the Blue Card holder and receive residence permits for the same duration
- EU-wide mobility, after 12 months in Cyprus, holders can apply for a Blue Card in another EU country
- Permanent residency track, time spent under the Blue Card in multiple EU countries can be combined toward long-term residence status
This makes the Blue Card far more attractive than traditional work permits and adds mobility and career flexibility across borders.
Strategic Workforce Planning
At GRS Recruitment, we view the launch of the EU Blue Card scheme as a strategic turning point for talent acquisition in Cyprus. For sectors that are rapidly expanding, such as tech, pharma, and shipping, this policy allows local companies to compete globally for talent.
It also offers a compelling alternative to more restrictive or fragmented immigration processes, aligning Cyprus with the EU’s broader strategy to attract high-calibre professionals in a fast-changing job market.
Need Help Navigating the Blue Card Process?
Whether you’re an employer seeking guidance on how to hire under the EU Blue Card, or a candidate exploring opportunities to work in Cyprus, our experienced recruitment consultants can help. From eligibility checks to role matching and document preparation, we’re here to support both sides of the hiring equation.
Contact us at: info@grsrecruitment.com