Cyprus extends residency permits for non-EU nationals due to travel disruptions

The Cyprus Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection has announced emergency measures to extend residency documents and entry visas for non-EU nationals unable to return to the country. These measures, effective from March 1, 2026, were introduced in response to aviation disruptions caused by the regional conflict in the Middle East, which some sources describe as a US-led war against Iran. Residency permit holders who have exceeded the three-month absence limit are permitted to re-enter Cyprus until April 30, 2026, provided their absence began after February 28, 2026. The extension also applies to individuals holding receipts for pending or approved residency renewal applications who have similarly surpassed the three-month stay limit. Additionally, entry permits originally scheduled to expire between March 1 and March 31, 2026, have been extended to allow entry until April 30, 2026. The ministry stated that these measures aim to prevent the loss of legal status for those affected by circumstances beyond their control. Officials confirmed that the situation will be monitored, with the possibility of further extensions depending on conditions on the ground.