Child Custody and Parental Responsibility in Cyprus When One Parent Lives Abroad
Introduction
Child custody cases become more complex when parents live in different countries. In Cyprus, the law always prioritizes the best interest of the child, while also considering geographic distance, daily care, and communication challenges if one parent resides abroad.
⚖️ Legal Framework
The key legal sources in Cyprus include:
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Parents and Children Relations Law (Law 216/1990)
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Family Courts Law (Law 23/1990)
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UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (applied through national law)
Definitions:
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Parental responsibility: Overall authority over the child’s upbringing, education, health, and property
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Custody: Day-to-day care and living arrangements, usually granted to one parent after separation or divorce
Which Court Has Jurisdiction?
The Family Court of the district where the child resides in Cyprus has jurisdiction.
Even if one parent lives abroad, Cyprus retains full jurisdiction if the child resides permanently in Cyprus.
⚠️ Can the Parent Living Abroad Obtain Custody?
Generally, courts do not award custody to the parent who lives permanently abroad unless:
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The child will relocate with full consent, or
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There is substantial proof of better conditions
The court evaluates the stability and welfare of the child case-by-case.
Communication Rights from Abroad
The parent living outside Cyprus may request:
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Video calls, chats, or emails
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Scheduled phone contact
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In-person visitation in Cyprus or abroad
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Temporary relocation of the child during holidays (e.g., summer visits)
The court can issue a detailed communication order to ensure regular contact.
Modifying Custody or Communication Orders
If circumstances change (e.g., relocation, illness, remarriage, child’s preference), a parent can:
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Apply to modify a previous court order
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Request increased contact or joint parental decisions
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In rare cases, seek transfer of custody
How E. CHATZIDIMITRIOU LLC Can Help
We support parents abroad by:
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Filing custody or communication applications in Cyprus
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Representing you remotely with Power of Attorney
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Handling court hearings, documentation, and evidence
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Facilitating amicable agreements or enforcing foreign court orders
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Liaising with Cyprus social services and experts
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Applying for recognition of U.S. or foreign judgments in Cyprus
Contact Us Today
www.hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
Email: info@hatzidimitriouvirtuallaw.com
U.S. Phone: +13474034789
Are you a parent in the U.S. with a child in Cyprus? We provide complete legal representation for custody or visitation matters — fully remote, fully protected.