Author
There are no schemes providing housing to BIPs. Therefore, those persons need to secure private accommodation on their own. This is often a difficult task, due to language barriers and financial constraints, related to high levels of unemployment, high rent prices, reluctance of landlords to rent premises to non-EU citizens and the extent of assorted allowances. In 2024, as was the case in 2023, securing private accommodation remained difficult for refugees who have recently been granted protection, as well as refugees living in the community. Although instances of homelessness are much more frequent among asylum applicants, BIPs also face this risk and assistance and guidance are required in order to secure shelter. The risk is higher for BIPs that lack community support in the country and vulnerable persons.
BIPs have a right to apply for financial aid through the national Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI) scheme, which may include a rent allowance. However, in order to apply for the rent allowance a property must already have been contracted. In addition, rent deposits are not covered through the GMI scheme. (see section: Social Welfare).
Regarding BIPs residing in the Reception Centre, there is no set time frame in which they must leave the Centre once they have received international protection, but persons are informed and urged by the Asylum Service to expedite their transition to the community. People are rarely evicted from the centre and in the case of BIPs efforts are made to support them to exit. However, to date there is still no official procedure for transition into the community. Obstacles faced by BIPs trying to exit Kofinou include finding accommodation in the community, especially in view of the high rent prices and delays with the issuance of residence permits. During 2024, delays related to Guaranteed Minimum Income (GMI); and delays to open a bank account, although still observed, were reduced.
As a significant number of persons will not be able to secure employment immediately after receiving international protection, they will need to apply for financial aid through the national GMI scheme. Prioritization of GMI applications for beneficiaries who are still residing in the Reception Centre has not been officially set-up. Furthermore, the GMI scheme does not provide amounts for housing, unless a specific property has already been identified and contracted.
During 2024, the stay of BIPs was significantly reduced due to efforts conducted by center staff providing integration services to the residents, primarily through job and housing placements.
In 2024, the UN Economic and Social Council raised concerns about reports of a deficit of affordable homes and that migrants and refugees face a heightened risk of exploitative practices by landlords and homelessness. The Committee recommended that the State party take immediate measures to address the housing situation, including by prioritizing funding for the construction of new and affordable housing units, strengthen oversight and enforcement mechanisms to prevent exploitation by landlords and reduce the risk of homelessness, including for migrants and refugees.[1]
[1] UN Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, Concluding observations on the seventh periodic report of Cyprus, October 2024, available here.