Eurostat data published on Tuesday showed a decrease in asylum applications in Cyprus, with 130 first-time claims and 95 repeat applications in December 2025.

This represents a decline from November last year, when 165 first-time and 105 repeat applications were recorded, and a sharper drop compared to December 2024, which saw 230 first-time claims and 40 repeats.

The figures reflect a broader EU trend, with 47,650 people applying for international protection in December, a 23 per cent decrease from the previous year, though Cyprus’ decline was proportionally steeper for first-time applicants.

Repeat applications in Cyprus, while fewer than first-time claims, remained significant, highlighting the ongoing demand for protection among those already in the system.

Eurostat said the changes come amid shifting migration flows and regional developments, though no further breakdown by nationality was provided for Cyprus.

The statistics follow recent legal rulings in Cyprus that have cleared the way for expedited deportations of Syrian nationals whose asylum appeals were rejected, underscoring the government’s focus on expediating deportations.