Over approximately 14,000 children are expected to benefit between 2025 and 2039 from the third-child allowance announced Thursday by the Church of Cyprus. The Church stated that its goal is to make a meaningful contribution to addressing the serious demographic challenge facing the country.
Announcing the Church’s plan to support the third child in every family, Archbishop Georgios described it as an initial step that could be expanded in the future if donors show interest. “If more resources become available, our plan is to increase the amounts,” he said, adding that, understanding the various needs involved in raising a child, the Archdiocese aims to stand by these families. He emphasized that the Church is starting “with the capabilities it has today, but with a view to supporting even more families in the future.”
of the child’s life up to 18 years of age.
“We sought input from many experts on how these plans could be structured. Among other suggestions, we were advised to give €2 million to associations of large families to manage directly. There were also various proposals on whether the allowance should be paid monthly. In the end, we decided it would be better to provide a larger financial contribution at key stages in the child’s and family’s life. I hope this helps address this important issue.”, the Archbishop said.
First instalment at baptism
According to the Archdiocese, each eligible child will receive:
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€1,500 at baptism
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€1,000 upon enrollment in primary school
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€1,000 upon enrollment in middle school
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€1,000 upon enrollment in high school
Additionally, up to the age of 18, each eligible child will receive €100 in vouchers every Christmas and €100 in vouchers every Easter. The vouchers will be valid for specific supermarket products, excluding items such as alcohol, tobacco, etc., as stated during the press conference.
Orthdox criteria
To qualify, a child must meet the following conditions:
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At least one parent holds a Cypriot ID.
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At least one parent is an Orthodox Christian.
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The family’s permanent residence is in Cyprus.
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The parents are married in an Orthodox Church through a church ceremony.
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The parents have given birth to three children, including the eligible child.
Applications must be submitted exclusively online through the platform epidoma teknou (child benefit), which opens to the public today, Friday. Those who need help with the electronic process can contact telephone line 22 554 678 for assistance. In cases of incomplete or incorrect information, parents will be notified by SMS or email to make the necessary corrections.
Once an application is approved, the financial allowance will be transferred via IBAN, and vouchers will be sent via email.