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1. EU programmes

2. Other Programmes

3. Legal framework applying to foreign volunteers

EU programmes

Cyprus currently participates in the European Solidarity Corps (ESC), which, as of 2022, also encompasses volunteering in the field of Humanitarian Aid (formerly the EU Aid Volunteers Programme).

As of 1 January 2024, the Foundation for the Management of European Lifelong Learning Programmes has been designated as the National Agency for the ESC and monitors the participation of young people in the ESC through applications submitted by groups of young people and organisations. In 2025, volunteers participating in approved volunteering projects attend five training activities organised by the National Agency: two On-Arrival Trainings, two Mid-Term Evaluation Meetings, and the Annual Event. Through these activities, the National Agency engages directly with volunteers, providing them with essential information about their service while also gathering their feedback, experiences, and reflections.

In 2025, a total of 176 young people from Cyprus participated in ESC volunteering projects, according to data from the European Youth Portal. A significant proportion of participants (66.5%) were identified as young people with fewer opportunities, highlighting the programme’s contribution to fostering inclusion. In terms of gender distribution, 67.9% of participants were female, 30.3% male, while 1.8% preferred not to disclose their gender. Cypriot participants were involved in cross-border volunteering activities in countries such as Latvia, Germany, Italy, France, the Netherlands, Poland, Romania, and Sweden.

Based on the projects awarded for 2025, it is estimated that approximately 143 young people will participate in volunteering and solidarity activities, both within Cyprus and abroad, demonstrating a continued upward trend in engagement.

As of March 2026, a total of 3,193 young people from Cyprus were registered on the European Youth Portal. Of these, 63.1% were female, 36.4% male, and 0.5% identified otherwise or did not specify their gender. The age distribution indicates that the majority of registrants (54.6%) are aged 21–25, followed by 24.0% aged 18–20, 18.7% aged 26–30, and 2.6% under the age of 18. Additionally, 44 individuals aged 31–35 have registered in the context of participation in cross-border volunteering activities supporting humanitarian aid operations in third countries, reflecting interest in the dedicated ESC strand for humanitarian aid.

The projects supported under the programme primarily addressed key thematic priorities, including inclusion and diversity, the EU Youth Goals, participation in democratic life, and environmental protection, with a strong emphasis on sustainable development and climate action. Notably, the number of applications increased by 40% compared to 2024, indicating a growing interest and strengthened engagement of young people in ESC activities.

Other Programmes

There are not bilateral or multilateral programmes for youth cross-border volunteering in Cyprus.

Legal framework applying to foreign volunteers

When it comes to ESC volunteers, the ESC Programme Guide, the ESC Info-kit and the agreement signed between all parties involves sets the legal framework for young volunteers coming from abroad to do volunteering in Cyprus.

Non-European ESC volunteers who will stay for a maximum period of up to 12 months are granted a residence permit for all the duration of their service.

In Cyprus, according to the  Migration Department, the legal framework governing foreign volunteers participating in cross-border programs is primarily defined by the legislation concerning Foreigners and Immigration (Conditions for Entry and Residence of Third-Country Nationals for Research, Studies, Internship, Voluntary Service, Student Exchange, or Educational Programs) Law No.7(I)/2019 (Ο περί Αλλοδαπών και Μετανάστευσης (Προϋποθέσεις Εισόδου και Διαμονής Υπηκόων Τρίτων Χωρών με σκοπό την Έρευνα, τις Σπουδές, την Πρακτική Άσκηση, την Εθελοντική Υπηρεσία, τις Ανταλλαγές Μαθητών ή τα Εκπαιδευτικά Προγράμματα) Νόμος του 2019). This legislation incorporates the relevant European Directive (EU)801/2016, ensuring alignment with European Union standards.

The legal framework also encompasses provisions related to residency permits or similar documentation essential for the stay of foreign young volunteers in Cyprus. These permits outline the type, duration, and conditions of residence, as well as the grounds for revocation or non-renewal.