Cyprus has signed an implementation agreement with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to establish the island’s first Assisted Voluntary Returns (AVR) Hub, valued at CHF 1.05 million (≈ €1.1 million). The deal, finalised on 4 December and announced on 6 December, is financed entirely by Switzerland’s Second Contribution to the EU Migration Fund.
The 40-bed facility will prepare vulnerable asylum-seekers – especially families, unaccompanied minors and people with medical needs – for dignified return to their countries of origin. Services will include medical screening, psychological counselling, travel-document procurement and reintegration planning.
![€1.1 million Assisted Voluntary Returns Hub to open in Nicosia]()
Officials at the Deputy Ministry of Migration & International Protection say the hub is central to Cyprus’ shift toward a "returns-first" migration strategy aimed at easing pressure on overcrowded reception centres and improving the island’s standing in EU burden-sharing talks.
For employers, the project could speed up the departure of rejected asylum applicants who currently linger in the labour market with only provisional work rights, thereby reducing compliance risks. Corporates that rely on third-country national labour should monitor timelines closely and consider alternative recruitment pipelines.
The 40-bed facility will prepare vulnerable asylum-seekers – especially families, unaccompanied minors and people with medical needs – for dignified return to their countries of origin. Services will include medical screening, psychological counselling, travel-document procurement and reintegration planning.
Officials at the Deputy Ministry of Migration & International Protection say the hub is central to Cyprus’ shift toward a "returns-first" migration strategy aimed at easing pressure on overcrowded reception centres and improving the island’s standing in EU burden-sharing talks.
For employers, the project could speed up the departure of rejected asylum applicants who currently linger in the labour market with only provisional work rights, thereby reducing compliance risks. Corporates that rely on third-country national labour should monitor timelines closely and consider alternative recruitment pipelines.
