Cyprus provides specific residence permits to third-country nationals who are presumed or recognised victims of human trafficking or exploitation.
The framework provides protection during two different stages: a reflection period and residence during the criminal investigation or judicial proceedings.
01. Residence Permit for the Reflection Period
The reflection period is intended to give a presumed or recognised victim time to recover, escape the influence of the alleged perpetrators and make an informed decision about whether to cooperate with the competent authorities.
The procedure begins following written notification from the Police to the Migration Department.
Key Information
- Application: MTE3
- Application fee: No fee
- Examination time: approximately 1 week
- Validity: 1 month, or 2 months for a minor
- Renewal: possible only where considered necessary by the prosecuting authorities
- Right to work: No
02. Residence Permit During Criminal Proceedings
A recognised victim of human trafficking may be granted a residence permit to assist with police investigations or judicial proceedings.
The permit is granted following notification by the Police to the Migration Department.
Key Information
- Application: MTE3
- Application fee: No fee
- Examination time: approximately 1 week
- Validity: 1 year
- Renewal: possible where considered necessary by the prosecuting authorities
- Right to work: Free access to the labour market
EU Nationals
For EU nationals who are victims of trafficking, a registration certificate of limited validity is issued instead of the third-country national residence permit.
Our Support
We provide assistance with the residence procedures applicable to victims of human trafficking and exploitation, including:
- Coordination of the immigration procedure
- Preparation of the relevant application
- Liaising with the competent authorities
- Residence permit procedures
- Biometric registration
- Renewal procedures where applicable
Important
These residence permits are part of a specific protection framework and are linked to the recognition or investigation of human trafficking or exploitation. The procedure is therefore closely connected with the competent Police and prosecuting authorities.
Contact us for guidance on the appropriate residence procedure.