The Cyprus Permanent Residency Program for Investors

Cyprus offers an attractive and fast-track program for non-EU nationals to gain permanent residency through a strategic investment. This initiative, often referred to as a "Golden Visa" program, is a popular pathway for high-net-worth individuals and families seeking a stable European base. The program provides the right to reside in Cyprus indefinitely and travel within the EU, making it a highly desirable option. This guide will provide a comprehensive look at the program, detailing the key requirements, the application process, and the significant benefits it offers in 2025. For a broader look at the market, you can read our Cyprus Property Market Trends 2025 report. You can also get more help on relocating your business to Cyprus post-Brexit.

1. The Primary Requirements for Qualification

To qualify for permanent residency through the investment program, applicants must meet a set of specific criteria laid out by the government. The program, known as the "Fast-Track" or "Category F" application, is designed to be efficient and secure. The core requirements for qualification are centered around three main pillars: a significant investment, financial stability, and personal background checks. You can also explore our business directory for all businesses.

Investment Criteria

The cornerstone of the application is a significant investment. The most common option is to purchase new residential property from a licensed developer for a minimum value of €300,000 plus VAT. The property must be purchased for a new build. It's important to note that the purchase must be a brand new property, not a resale. The funds for the investment must also be transferred from a foreign bank account to a bank account in Cyprus. You can get a better idea of what to expect in our guide on buying property in Cyprus as a foreigner. For more information on finding a good developer or a property, you can check our Construction and Real Estate directory.

Financial Requirements

In addition to the investment, applicants must prove a stable annual income from a source outside of Cyprus. The minimum annual income is €50,000 for the main applicant. This threshold increases for each dependent family member included in the application: an additional €15,000 for the spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child. This income can be derived from various sources, such as salaries, pensions, dividends, or rental income from properties outside of Cyprus. Applicants must also make a deposit of a minimum of €30,000 into a Cypriot bank account, which must be locked for at least three years. This proves the financial stability of the applicant and their ability to support themselves and their family without needing to work in Cyprus. You can get more information in our finance, banking, and investment directory.

Personal Background and Other Requirements

All applicants and their dependents must have a clean criminal record from their country of origin and any country of residence. They must also have a valid passport and health insurance. The permanent residency permit also covers the applicant's spouse and dependent children up to the age of 25. The permit is valid for life, as long as the applicant visits Cyprus at least once every two years. For any legal or professional needs related to the application, you can consult our Professional Corporate Services directory. You can also explore our guides on socializing as an expat and finding your way around the island to get a better idea of the local lifestyle.

2. The Application Process: A Streamlined Path

The process is designed to be streamlined and efficient, typically taking around two months from submission to approval. This fast-track process is one of the most appealing aspects of the program. Here is a general outline of the steps:

1. Purchase Agreement: The first step is to sign a sales agreement for the qualifying property and make the required payment. It is crucial to have a lawyer review this agreement to ensure it is legally sound and protects your interests.
2. Document Preparation: Gather all necessary documents, including passports, clean criminal records, proof of income, and health insurance. Your lawyer or corporate services provider will help you with this step, ensuring all documents are correctly translated and certified.
3. Application Submission: The application, along with all supporting documents, is submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department. This is typically done through a lawyer or a corporate services provider, who will act as your representative.
4. Approval and Issuance: Once the application is approved, the applicants are required to visit Cyprus within one year to provide their biometric data for the residency card to be issued. The cards are typically issued within a few weeks of the biometrics appointment.

3. Key Benefits of the Program

The permanent residency program offers a number of compelling benefits for investors and their families, making it a powerful tool for global mobility and a high quality of life.

• Right to Live in Cyprus: The permit gives you and your family the right to live and reside in Cyprus indefinitely. This is a crucial benefit for those who want a secure base in Europe.
• Visa-Free Travel: While not a Schengen visa, holding a Cypriot permanent residency permit allows you to travel to other EU countries without a visa, making international travel more convenient.
• Access to the Cypriot Healthcare and Education System: Residents have access to the country's high-quality public healthcare and education systems, as well as an array of private options. You can find out more about the lifestyle and education in our Cyprus for Expats guide.
• Favorable Tax System: Cyprus offers a very attractive tax system, with a low corporate tax rate and no inheritance tax. This is particularly beneficial for high-net-worth individuals and business owners. For more information, you can explore our finance and investment categories.
• Path to Citizenship: After seven years of legal residency, permanent residency holders may be eligible to apply for Cypriot citizenship. This is an excellent option for those who want a second passport and the full rights of an EU citizen.