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Cyprus remains outside the Schengen Zone more than two decades after joining the EU, but Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection Nicolas Ioannides says the long wait may soon end.
After meeting EU Home Affairs Commissioner Magnus Brunner in Brussels, Ioannides said Cyprus is “technically ready” to join Schengen and expects the final technical evaluation from the European Commission by the end of 2025. If all goes well, he hopes to secure the necessary political support from member states in 2026.
Why Schengen matters
Joining the passport-free travel zone would mean faster airport procedures, smoother travel across Europe, and stronger security cooperation. But critics warn it could add pressure to Cyprus’ already strained migration system, especially if border controls disappear before all policies are fully aligned.
Preparing for the EU Presidency
Ioannides described his Brussels meeting as “constructive,” noting that Schengen was just one item on the agenda. He also outlined Cyprus’ goals for its upcoming EU Council Presidency, including overseeing the rollout of the new Migration and Asylum Pact in June 2026.
He stressed that migration must be handled collectively. “The 2015 refugee crisis found the EU unprepared,” he said, pointing to past unilateral measures that fragmented policy across the bloc.
Keeping 27 countries on board
Some member states have already said they won’t adopt parts of the new Pact, particularly the solidarity mechanism meant to support frontline countries. Ioannides has begun bilateral talks to bridge these gaps and says Cyprus will take a “conciliatory” approach during its presidency.
Despite differing views, he remains optimistic that Schengen, and deeper cooperation on migration, is finally within reach.
