Immigrants in Cyprus
Cyprus has a long history of immigration, with various waves of people coming to the island throughout the centuries. In recent times, Cyprus has become a popular destination for immigrants, especially from Eastern Europe, Africa, and Asia.
According to the latest available data from the Statistical Service of Cyprus, as of January 2023, the total number of foreign residents in Cyprus was 178,217 and 231,000 in North Cyprus, representing around 45% of the total population of the island (mostly from Türkiye). The largest groups of immigrants come from Türkiye, Greece, Russia, Sri Lanka, Syria, Romania, Bulgaria, the United Kingdom, and other European countries. There are also significant numbers of immigrants from Egypt, India, and the Philippines.
Immigrants in Cyprus face various challenges, including language barriers, discrimination, and limited access to certain services and opportunities. The Cypriot government has taken steps to address these issues, including offering language classes and vocational training programs for immigrants and providing legal assistance to those who face discrimination.
Overall, the immigrant community in Cyprus is diverse and vibrant, contributing to the country's cultural and economic growth.