Cyprus Offers Residency to Belarusians with Expired Passports

In a move to assist Belarusian citizens, Cyprus has begun issuing residence permits to those holding expired passports, effective May 2026. This initiative allows Belarusians to not only obtain but also renew their residency status on the island.

Additionally, children born in Cyprus to Belarusian parents who are unable to secure Belarusian passports can qualify for residency using their Cypriot birth certificates, assuming both parents are Belarusian nationals.

However, complications remain regarding international travel, as a residence permit does not serve as a passport or travel document. Many Belarusians abroad face challenges due to the halt in passport services at Belarusian embassies since September 2023, forcing them to return home to renew their documents, which may expose them to legal risks.

Source: meduza.io