On the 11th of July 2024, the House of Representatives of the Republic of Cyprus passed a legislative bill to implement the EU Blue Card Scheme. This important legislative milestone represents a crucial advancement in improving the framework for skilled migration to Cyprus.
What is an EU Blue Card?
The EU Blue Card, governed by Directive (EU) 2021/1883, offers a substantial opportunity for highly-qualified non-EU nationals to advance their careers within Cyprus and the broader European Union. By providing the right to live and work in Cyprus and the freedom to move across EU countries, the Blue Card is an excellent pathway for skilled professionals seeking to expand their horizons and embrace new challenges in a dynamic market environment. The EU Blue Card applies in 25 of the 27 EU countries, excluding Denmark and Ireland.
Key Points of the EU Blue Card:
- Eligibility Criteria:
- High Skill Definition: The Blue Card pertains to individuals with a tertiary education degree lasting at least three years. Alternatively, professionals in information and communication technologies may qualify with relevant professional experience of at least three years within the past seven years.
- Salary Threshold: To obtain a Blue Card, applicants must have a salary that is between 1 and 1.6 times the average gross annual salary of the Member State.
- Benefits and Mobility:
- Family Rights: The proposal grants increased rights to the family members of Blue Card holders.
- Mobility: After twelve months of employment in the initial Member State, Blue Card holders can move to another EU Member State with simplified rules for both short and long-term mobility.
- Long-Term Residency: Flexible provisions for access to long-term resident status, depending on each Member State.
Anticipated Implementation
Although the legislation has been approved, the official law is anticipated to be issued by the end of July 2024.
Broader Implications
By aligning with the European directive, the EU aims to strengthen its position as a knowledge and innovation-based economy. The directive seeks to reduce the administrative burden on businesses, better align labor supply with demand, and ensure that procedural guarantees and rights for Blue Card holders are on par with national residence permit programs.
HOW BYBLOSERVE CAN ASSIST YOU?
Please rest assured that our team is closely monitoring the situation to ensure we provide you with timely and accurate updates. We are here to guide and support you should you wish to apply for the EU Blue Card Scheme.
DISCLAIMER: The information contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and does not constitute and neither shall be construed as legal or other professional advice. Neither Bybloserve Management Limited nor any of its employees accept any liability for any loss arising from relying on the information contained herein.