2022-03-13 21:49:03
Kindly note that the authorities have published information on the implementation of the Temporary Protection (TP) directive for Ukrainian refugees in Cyprus. There isn’t full clarity on how to access social rights that are attached to the Temporary Protection status
Applying for TP:
http://www.moi.gov.cy/moi/asylum/asylumservice.nsf/All/71A7D6D56D2B4B49C22588010055092A?OpenDocument
As you will note in the link, there’s an application form to be filled and submitted at the District Immigration Police of the city the applicants are residing. Applicants will need to go in person to apply. The authorities have not informed if an appointment is needed.
Temporary Protection:
The EU has triggered the Temporary Protection regime for Ukrainians. The Temporary Protection for now is a positive solution as it provides a fast-track protection regime with rights, contrary to the asylum procedures which are extremely delayed, more complicated and the rights are limited during the examination of the asylum application. Temporary Protection is not a long-term solution and does not prevent persons from applying for asylum at any time if needed. TP is provided for 1 year with the possibility of the EU to extend it for up to another year.
After that if the situation does not allow returns, people will have to apply for asylum. For the time being there is no reason to apply for asylum as the authorities will not be examining applications from Ukraine.
Further information:
• TP is provided only to Ukrainian nationals residing in Ukraine before 24 February 2022
• Ukrainians who are in Cyprus on work visas will have their visas automatically renewed.
• Ukrainians in Cyprus on 90 days stay who left Ukraine prior to the 24/2/2022 will be allowed to stay for extra 90 days.
Rights:
Rights under the Temporary Protection Directive include,
a residence permit - Once the application is made a residence permit will need to be issued. According to the authorities the intention is to issue the residence permits automatically and contact the TP holders to receive them.
access to the labour market - access is open, meaning under the same conditions as nationals. It is not clear yet if a residence permit will need to be issued in order to access employment.
housing - No information if and under what conditions this will be offered. There is no information if any special arrangements are being made for refugees from Ukraine.
medical assistance - No information yet if this will be provided under GESY or under the system asylum seekers have access to, which is with a medical card and they only have access to public hospitals.
and access to education for children - all children in Cyprus have a right to go to public school and the parents the obligation to send them.
For further info:
https://ec.europa.eu/info/strategy/priorities-2019-2024/stronger-europe-world/eu-solidarity-ukraine/eu-assistance-ukraine/information-people-fleeing-war-ukraine_en
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