The Migrant Information Centre, run by the University of Nicosia, CARDET and Cyprus University of Technology, has set up and is operating a temporary shelter for migrants in Nicosia, Cyprus. The shelter was created in response to the growing difficulties migrants are facing in securing housing in Nicosia that has led to increasing homelessness.

Located in the heart of Nicosia, the shelter offers free, temporary accommodation to migrants, asylum seekers, beneficiaries of international protection and recognised refugees. Priority is given to vulnerable people—such as families with children, women and the elderly—for a period of one week.

The shelter gives people time to take care of their documentation, go through necessary procedures and secure a permanent place to stay. It accommodates 8-12 people at a time, with special attention to ensuring accessibility for people with low mobility or disabilities.

The shelter was inaugurated in early March and has already begun accommodating and supporting refugees and asylum seekers in need. Its establishment and day-to-day operations are supported by the EU’s Asylum Migration and Integration Fund, the Republic of Cyprus and private donors.