The Politis newspaper has outlined the specific conditions that Cyprus must fulfill to become part of the Schengen area, indicating that the island is five steps from achieving this goal.
Step 1: Meeting Technical and Operational Requirements
Cyprus must modernize and integrate its information technology systems with the Schengen Information System (SIS), which it joined in 2024. It is also necessary to enhance border controls, particularly concerning the Green Line, which, despite not being an external border, must adhere to strict EU border regulations. Additionally, Cyprus needs to strengthen its consular presence by forming further cooperation agreements with other countries and external service providers.
Step 2: Central Coordination and Administrative Structure
A dedicated group has been formed under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Cyprus, incorporating members from the Ministries of Justice, Transport, Defense, and Migration. This group is responsible for compiling and addressing all outstanding issues to expedite the European Commission’s evaluation of Cyprus’s Schengen membership.
Step 3: Effective Oversight of the Green Line
The European Commission aims to closely monitor the Green Line to ensure security and prevent illegal border crossings.
Step 4: Implementation of the Schengen Borders Code for Visa and Migrant Returns
Cyprus’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Constantinos Kombos, stated last week that the country has been adhering to the key provisions of the Schengen Borders Code since it joined the EU on May 1, 2004. In 2024, Cyprus repatriated 10,098 illegal migrants, with the European Commission's head, Ursula von der Leyen, acknowledging the significant advancements made by Cyprus. Former Vice-President of the European Commission, Margaritis Schinas, referred to Cyprus as "Europe's champion in migrant returns."
Step 5: Final Evaluation and Political Endorsement
The European Commission will conduct a final assessment of Cyprus’s candidacy, requiring unanimous approval from all 29 Schengen member states for accession. The government believes Cyprus will be technically ready to join Schengen by 2025, with a final decision anticipated in the next two to three years.
Additional Notes
Out of 27 EU member states, only Ireland and Cyprus are not part of the Schengen zone. The Schengen area includes 25 EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Joining Schengen will eliminate border checks between Cyprus and 29 European countries. Once Cyprus becomes part of the Schengen area, third-country nationals holding a Cypriot residence permit will be permitted to travel visa-free across these 29 nations, a privilege currently requiring a visa.