Newsroom / CNA
According to CNA, Syrian nationals in Cyprus are beginning to submit applications to withdraw their asylum requests, according to Deputy Minister of Migration and International Protection, Nikolas Ioannidis. He assured that the Deputy Ministry is committed to facilitating their voluntary repatriation to Syria in an organized and efficient manner.
The group "Syrians in Cyprus" has addressed a letter to the Deputy Minister, urging the Cypriot government to ensure a structured, safe, and dignified process for those opting to return voluntarily to their homeland.
In response to this letter, Mr. Ioannidis confirmed that Syrians have already initiated withdrawal applications with the intent of returning to Syria. “The Deputy Ministry is responsibly reviewing these requests and taking the necessary steps to assist in their repatriation,” he stated.
Once asylum applications are officially withdrawn, the Migration Department will issue the required documents to facilitate the process. However, since these are voluntary returns rather than deportations, individuals will need to arrange their own transportation back to Syria, whether through direct flights or connections via third countries. Mr. Ioannidis emphasized that this voluntary nature makes it incumbent on the individuals to coordinate their travel arrangements.
Mr. Ioannidis also noted that the Deputy Ministry is expediting the processing of these withdrawal applications. “I have instructed my team to prioritize these cases and integrate them into the voluntary return system,” he said.
As of early afternoon, 20 individuals had officially withdrawn their asylum applications. Additionally, some individuals currently under protection status have expressed a desire to revoke that status in order to return to Syria. While these numbers are initial, Mr. Ioannidis expects the flow of applications to increase in the coming days. “We are taking all necessary actions to support this process and ensure its smooth progression,” he added.
In their letter, the "Syrians in Cyprus" group expressed gratitude to the Cypriot government for offering them protection during their time away from their homes. They also urged the authorities to take two key steps: first, to implement measures ensuring a safe, dignified, and well-organized return for those choosing repatriation, and second, to extend the Assisted Voluntary Return (AVR) program to include Syrian nationals.
This evolving situation highlights the Cypriot government’s role in facilitating voluntary repatriation while respecting the rights and dignity of those seeking to return to their country.
