Cyprus parliament approves new asylum legislation

On Thursday, the Cypriot House of Representatives passed a new legislative framework for asylum procedures, aligning the country with the European Union's migration pact. The bill, which passed with 35 votes in favor and 14 abstentions, is scheduled to take effect on June 12, 2026. The legislation introduces mandatory border screening processes and establishes designated reception centers to handle applications. Accelerated procedures for processing claims will be implemented, and asylum seekers are now permitted to enter the labor market within six months of their application. Legal safeguards are enhanced through mandatory audio recording of interviews, free legal guidance at the administrative stage, and legal representation during the appeals process. The human rights commission is designated as an independent oversight mechanism for fundamental rights at border procedures. Furthermore, the law sets new deadlines for the Administrative Court of International Protection to issue rulings. The adoption of this legislation allows Cyprus to access 190 million euros in EU funding for migration management.