When will I receive a decision about my application for asylum?

A first instance decision on your asylum application should be made within six months from the date you applied, but sometimes it may take longer. According to the law of the Republic of Cyprus the time limit of six months may be extended for a period of a further nine months under the following circumstances:

• it is a period where there is a large number of applications
• there is a complicated legal and substantial issue in your case
• you don’t go for the interview

The process can be extended for another three months, if required, for a comprehensive evaluation of your case. In any case the procedure should not exceed 21 months.

Note: This refers to the Asylum Service and the Reviewing Authority procedure. It does not refer to or include the time required for the review of appeals by the Court.

In practice the procedures before the Asylum Service and the Reviewing Authority may take much longer. According to the Refugee Law, in case of delays, you have the right to be informed of the delay, of the reasons for the delay, and of the time-frame within which you can expect an answer.

See additional related topics in our FAQ section.

If your application is accepted, you will receive a recognition letter that either accepts you as a refugee, or gives you subsidiary protection. With either status, you will have various rights and obligations. See our section on Refugee Rights and Duties for more information.