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Immigrate to Cyprus Through Investment
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Nestled at the intersection of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus holds a unique position both geographically and economically. As a full member of the European Union, the island combines the benefits of EU access with a Mediterranean lifestyle, political stability, and a business-friendly environment. Over the years, it has become a favored destination for global investors seeking not just financial returns but also long-term residency within the EU.
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One of the most accessible and structured routes for non-EU nationals to establish a foothold in Cyprus is through the Golden Visa Program. This initiative offers a streamlined path to permanent residency in return for qualifying investments, making it particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, property buyers, and high-net-worth individuals aiming to secure a secure, well-connected base in Europe.
(UTC+2)
9,251 km2
Euro
Nicosia
Greek, Turkish, English
Tourism, Agriculture, Financial, Shipping, Real Estate
Understanding the Cyprus Golden Visa Program
The Cyprus Golden Visa is a residency-by-investment initiative that grants non-EU nationals the right to live in Cyprus through a qualifying financial contribution. Unlike temporary residence schemes, this program offers permanent residency from the outset, making it one of the more efficient and appealing options for investors seeking long-term stability within the European Union.
Applicants are not required to reside in Cyprus full-time, but they must meet specific investment thresholds and maintain certain conditions to retain their status. This approach is particularly well-suited to individuals aiming to secure a European base while continuing to manage business or family interests abroad.
Eligibility Criteria for the Cyprus Golden Visa
Eligibility Criteria for the Cyprus Golden Visa
The Cyprus Golden Visa program offers a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for non-EU nationals through strategic investment. As of 2025, the eligibility requirements are as follows:
Investment Options
Applicants must invest a minimum of €300,000 (excluding VAT) in one of the following categories:
- Residential Real Estate: Purchase of up to two new residential properties (first-time sales) from a developer. At least €200,000 plus VAT must be paid before applying. The funds must originate from abroad and be deposited in a local bank prior to the transaction.
- Commercial Real Estate: Investment in new or resale commercial properties, such as offices, shops, or hotels. The total value must be at least €300,000, excluding VAT.
- Cypriot Company Shares: Acquisition of shares in a Cyprus-based company that has a physical presence and employs at least five Cypriot or EU citizens.
- Investment Funds: Investment in units of Cyprus-regulated investment funds, including Alternative Investment Funds (AIF), Alternative Investment Funds with Limited Number of Persons (AIFLNP), or Registered Alternative Investment Funds (RAIF). The fund must be regulated by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC) and have a physical presence in Cyprus.
It's important to note that for real estate investments, the property must be new and purchased directly from a developer. Additionally, the investment funds must originate from abroad.
These investment options provide flexibility for investors to choose the avenue that best aligns with their financial goals and lifestyle preferences.
Income Requirements
In addition to the investment, applicants must demonstrate a stable annual income from abroad, meeting the following thresholds:
- Main Applicant: €50,000
- Spouse: Additional €15,000
- Per Dependent Child: Additional €10,000
Additional Requirements
- Clean Criminal Record: Applicants and their adult dependents must provide a clean criminal record from their country of origin and any country where they have resided.
- Health Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the applicant and all dependents is mandatory.
- Declaration of Non-Employment: Applicants must declare that they do not intend to work in Cyprus, except as directors of the company in which they have invested.
- Residency Maintenance: To maintain permanent residency status, the applicant must visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
Family Inclusion in the Cyprus Golden Visa Program
The Cyprus Golden Visa program offers non-EU investors a pathway to permanent residency, extending benefits to immediate family members. As of 2025, the eligibility criteria for dependents are as follows:
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Eligible Family Members
- Spouse: The legally married partner of the main applicant.
- Children under 18: Unmarried minors who are financially dependent on the main applicant.
- Children aged 18 to 25: Unmarried adult children who are full-time students and financially dependent on the main applicant. They must provide proof of enrollment in a recognized educational institution.
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Ineligible Family Members
- Parents and Parents-in-law: As per the latest regulations, parents of the main applicant and their spouse are no longer eligible for inclusion under the main applicant's Golden Visa application.
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It's important to note that each dependent must meet the program's requirements, including a clean criminal record and adequate health insurance coverage. Additionally, the main applicant's annual income must increase by €15,000 for the spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child to meet the financial criteria.
By understanding these eligibility parameters, applicants can effectively plan their family's relocation to Cyprus under the Golden Visa program.
Application Process for the Cyprus Golden Visa
Application Process for the Cyprus Golden Visa
Securing permanent residency in Cyprus through the Golden Visa program involves a structured and efficient process. As of 2025, the application procedure encompasses the following steps:
1. Preparation of Documentation
Begin by assembling all necessary documents, which include:
- A completed and signed application form (Form MIP1).
- Valid passports for the applicant and any dependents.
- Curriculum Vitae detailing educational and professional background.
- Proof of investment, such as a contract of sale or title deed for the purchased property in Cyprus, or bank transfer receipts showing a minimum investment of €300,000.
- Evidence of the source of investment funds, including bank statements and employment contracts if applicable.
- Documentation demonstrating an annual foreign income of at least €50,000, plus €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 per dependent child. Acceptable proofs include tax returns or bank statements.
- Original criminal record certificates from the applicant’s country of residence, officially translated into English.
- Certified and officially translated marriage and birth certificates, if applicable.
- Proof of comprehensive health insurance coverage for all family members.
- Recent passport-sized photographs for each applicant.
- A signed declaration stating that the applicant will not work in Cyprus, except as a company director.
Ensure all documents are officially translated into Greek or English. If your country is part of the Apostille Convention, an Apostille stamp is required; otherwise, documents must be legalized by both your country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
2. Submission of Application
Submit the complete application package to the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Cyprus. This can be done in person or through an authorized representative. If submitting via a representative, include a letter of authorization.
3. Payment of Fees
Upon submission, pay the required fees:
- €500 application processing fee.
- €70 per person included in the application for issuing the Alien Registration Certificate (ARC).
4. Application Processing
The CRMD reviews the application, and provided all criteria are met, it is forwarded to the Minister of Interior through the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior. The estimated processing time is approximately two months.
5. Investment Completion
After approval, finalize the qualifying investment as per the chosen category. Ensure that the investment funds originate from abroad and are deposited in a local bank prior to the transaction.
6. Issuance of Residency Permit
Once the investment is confirmed, the applicant and included family members receive their permanent residency permits, allowing them to reside in Cyprus. To maintain this status, residents must visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
By meticulously following these steps and ensuring all requirements are met, applicants can successfully obtain permanent residency in Cyprus through the Golden Visa program.
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Maintaining Permanent Residency in Cyprus
- Securing permanent residency in Cyprus through the Golden Visa program is a significant achievement. However, to retain this status, certain obligations must be met. As of 2025, the following requirements are essential for maintaining your residency:
- 1. Periodic Visit to Cyprus: Residents must visit Cyprus at least once every two years. This minimal presence requirement ensures the residency status remains active without necessitating continuous residence.
- 2. Retention of Qualifying Investment: The initial investment, whether in real estate, company shares, or investment funds, must be maintained. Disposing of or altering the investment below the required threshold can jeopardize the residency status.
- 3. Sustained Income Level: An annual income of at least €50,000 from abroad must be consistently demonstrated. This amount increases by €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child included in the residency application.
- By adhering to these requirements, residents can enjoy the benefits of Cypriot residency, including access to healthcare, education, and the opportunity for eventual citizenship after seven years of residency.
Path to Cypriot Citizenship Through the Golden Visa Program
Path to Cypriot Citizenship Through the Golden Visa Program
For non-EU nationals who have secured permanent residency in Cyprus via the Golden Visa scheme, the journey toward full citizenship is structured yet attainable. As of 2025, the Republic of Cyprus offers a clear naturalization pathway for long-term residents who meet specific residency and legal criteria.
Naturalization Requirements
To qualify for Cypriot citizenship through naturalization, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:
- Residency Duration: A minimum of seven years of legal residence within the last ten years preceding the application. This includes a continuous 12-month stay immediately before submitting the application. Short absences of up to 90 days within this 12-month period do not disrupt continuity.
- Good Character: Applicants must demonstrate good character, typically evidenced by a clean criminal record.
- Language Proficiency: Sufficient knowledge of the Greek language at the B1 level is required.
- Civic Knowledge: An understanding of the basic elements of the contemporary political and social reality of Cyprus is necessary.
Application Process
The application for citizenship by naturalization is submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Cyprus. Applicants must provide comprehensive documentation, including proof of residency, language proficiency, and other supporting materials as specified by the CRMD.
Important Considerations
- Continuous Residency: The requirement for a continuous 12-month stay immediately before the application is strictly enforced. Applicants should plan accordingly to meet this criterion.
- Documentation: All documents submitted must be officially translated into Greek or English and, where necessary, legalized or apostilled.
- Processing Time: The naturalization process can be time-consuming. Applicants are advised to ensure all requirements are met to avoid delays.
By adhering to these guidelines and maintaining their residency status, Golden Visa holders can successfully transition to full Cypriot citizenship, enjoying the rights and privileges that come with it.
Conclusion
Cyprus offers a compelling route to permanent residency—and eventually citizenship—through its Golden Visa program, striking a balance between opportunity and stability. With its strategic location, investor-friendly climate, and EU membership, the island appeals to individuals seeking both security and access to European markets. By meeting the program’s clear investment, income, and residency requirements, applicants can build a long-term future in Cyprus, with the added benefit of family inclusion and a path to full integration. For many, it’s not just an investment in property or business, but an investment in a new way of life.
FAQ about Immigrate to Cyprus Through Investment
1. Who is eligible for the Cyprus Golden Visa?
Non-EU nationals who invest at least €300,000 in real estate, business, or investment funds and meet income and background requirements.
2. Can I include family members in my application?
Yes, you can include your spouse and dependent children under 25. Parents and in-laws are no longer eligible.
3. How long does the application process take?
Most applications are processed within two months.
4. Is it necessary to live in Cyprus full-time?
No, but you must visit at least once every two years to maintain residency.
5. When can I apply for citizenship?
After 8 years of residence in Cyprus, including one continuous year before applying.
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