A total of 3,703 irregular migrants arrived in Cyprus from January to April, while during the same period, 3,337 returned, according to the Ministry of Interior’s data.
Returns:
- 2023: a total of 2,348 returns were made.
- 2024: a total of 3,337 returns were made.
Arrivals:
- 2023: a total of 3,522 irregular migrants arrived.
- 2024: a total of 3,703 irregular migrants arrived.
Arrivals for both years are at the same level, slightly higher in 2024. In terms of returns, nearly 1,000 more people left Cyprus in 2024.
Among other measures, cooperation with Frontex has been enhanced, as well as the voluntary return programme with the provision of financial incentives ranging from €1,000 to €1,500, depending on the country of origin.
Construction work is also underway to establish a pre-departure centre in Menogeia, with a capacity to accommodate approximately 800 individuals.
This aims to facilitate larger-scale operations for the apprehension of migrants whose applications have been definitively rejected but reside in Cyprus.
