Cyprus to Pay Syrian Refugees for Returning to Their Homeland

Cyprus plans to launch a repatriation program for Syrian families who withdraw their asylum applications, allowing one adult family member to remain on the island and work. This was announced by Cyprus' Minister of Migration, Nicholas Ionadidis.

Starting next month, financial incentives will be provided to asylum-seeking families or those under international protection for voluntarily returning to Syria. The program is being implemented in coordination with the European Union. EU member Cyprus is among the largest hosts of Syrian migrants per capita.

Cypriot officials state that 2,500 Syrians have withdrawn their asylum applications or refused protection status, while approximately 2,400 have returned home.

The repatriation program allows one person from each family or couple to receive special residence and work permits for two years. Returning family members will receive 2,000 euros ($2,270) for each adult and 1,000 euros for each child. The program will be in effect from June 2 to August 31.