Asylum applications across the European Union have fallen significantly, yet Cyprus ranks third for the highest number of applications per capita. According to Eurostat data, Cyprus recorded an index of 24.3 applications per 100,000 residents, trailing behind Greece at 39.4 and Spain at 25.8.
- As Cyprus grapples with its high per capita rate of asylum applications, the broader EU trends signal a complex landscape for migration and asylum policies moving forward.
In June 2025, the EU saw a year-on-year decrease of 27% in new asylum applications, plummeting to 52,265 from 71,455 in June 2024. This also marks a 5% decline compared to May’s figures, which stood at 54,780. Despite the overall downturn, Cyprus continues to feel the strain on its asylum system.
Venezuela Leads in Asylum Applications
The top nationality applying for asylum in the EU comes from Venezuela, with 7,615 applications filed. Other significant sources include Afghanistan with 4,085 applications, Bangladesh at 2,735, and Syria contributing 2,315. In a contrasting trend, repeat applications increased by 24%, reaching a total of 8,140 cases, highlighting persistent issues in processing claims across various member states.
Spain Emerges as the Top Destination
Spain has emerged as the leading country for new asylum applications, receiving 12,645 submissions. Italy follows with 9,765, while France and Germany received 9,510 and 6,860 applications respectively. Together, these four nations accounted for a striking 74% of all new applications within the EU, reflecting ongoing migration patterns through the Mediterranean routes.
Special Consideration for Unaccompanied Minors
Among the applicants, unaccompanied minors represent a notable demographic, with 1,835 applications recorded. The primary countries of origin for these minors include Eritrea, which accounted for 460 cases, followed by Afghanistan with 205 and Mali with 190.
Positive Decision Rates Show Variability Across Member States
During the second quarter of 2025, EU member states issued 194,730 first-instance decisions regarding asylum applications, with a positive decision rate of 34%. This translates to 65,735 successful applications. Spain led the way with the highest number of positive decisions at 16,060, followed closely by France with 14,220 and Germany with 13,450. The principal beneficiaries of these positive decisions were citizens from Afghanistan, Venezuela, and Somalia, who received 13,170, 12,340, and 3,215 approvals respectively.
As Cyprus grapples with its high per capita rate of asylum applications, the broader EU trends signal a complex landscape for migration and asylum policies moving forward.
