Cyprus Immigration and Citizenship Lawyer
Considering moving to Cyprus? This country offers migrants a unique blend of cultural heritage, favourable climate, and comfortable conditions for conducting business. Thanks to its strategically advantageous location, developed economy, and high standard of living, Cyprus has become a preferred choice for expats and investors. The government offers a variety of different programmes for obtaining residency.
Working with an experienced immigration lawyer in Cyprus can significantly reduce the time and financial costs associated with document processing, as well as avoid procedural and legal errors. We offer comprehensive support on immigration and citizenship issues in Cyprus thanks to our extensive experience working with foreign nationals and tailored solutions for each client.
How can one obtain Cypriot citizenship?
Citizenship in Cyprus can be acquired through several methods, depending on your background, investment capabilities, familial connections, and other factors. The main ways to obtain Cypriot citizenship include citizenship by descent, naturalisation, marriage, and investment. We will explore each of these options in more detail in this article.
Before beginning the process, it’s crucial to seek qualified legal advice. An experienced professional will help you choose the best method of obtaining citizenship based on your specific situation.
Depending on the chosen method of obtaining citizenship, a set of documents will need to be prepared:
- Birth certificate;
- Documents confirming your status (marriage certificate, proof of investments, proof of residence);
- Financial documents, such as income statements or property ownership documents.
After preparing the documents, the application for citizenship is submitted to the Cyprus Ministry of Interior or to a consulate (if you are abroad). A solicitor can assist in correctly filling out the application and submitting it with the necessary attachments. The processing of the application can take from several months up to a year.
After your application has been approved, you will receive a Cypriot citizenship certificate. You will also be issued with a passport and other documents confirming your new status.
The right to acquire Cypriot citizenship by descent
Individuals with Cypriot heritage, even if they were born outside of the country, can claim citizenship. The following categories of people have the right to citizenship by descent:
- Children of Cypriot citizens, regardless of their place of birth;
- Individuals born outside Cyprus before 1960, whose father or grandfather were citizens of Cyprus;
- Individuals with Cypriot heritage, born after 1960, whose father was a citizen of Cyprus at the time of their birth, are eligible for citizenship. For children born to Cypriot mothers, the right to citizenship by descent is automatically recognized for those born after 11 June 1999.
- Grandchildren and great-grandchildren of Cypriot citizens, provided they can supply the necessary proof of kinship.
To successfully apply for Cypriot citizenship by descent, you must gather and submit the following documents:
- The applicant’s birth certificate;
- Birth certificate of a parent or another ancestor;
- Parents’ marriage certificate;
- Identity card or passport of a Cypriot citizen;
- A completed application form for citizenship, which is submitted to the Ministry of Interior of Cyprus or through consulates abroad.
- Documents confirming the citizenship of ancestors (if required);
- Additional documents, such as proof of residence, evidence of assets in Cyprus, and others (if necessary).
The first step is to gather all the necessary documents. It’s important to ensure that all copies are certified by official bodies and translated into Greek or English.
The application can be submitted to the Ministry of Interior in Cyprus or through the consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. The review process may take several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the number of documents submitted.
Cypriot citizenship by residency duration
Foreign nationals who have lived in Cyprus for an extended period can apply for citizenship. To do this, one must have continuously resided in the country for no less than 7 years. The required period may be reduced in the following cases:
- 5 years for those born in Cyprus or married to a Cypriot citizen;
- 3 years for spouses of Cypriot citizens when children are present.
To obtain citizenship through naturalisation, the following documents must be provided:
- Applicant’s birth certificate;
- Proof of residence in Cyprus (rental agreement, utility bills);
- Financial documents confirming sources of income;
- Certificate of No Criminal Record Evidence of proficiency in Greek (certificates or course confirmations).
Long-term absence from the country without valid reasons is not permitted. Additionally, applicants must successfully pass a test in Greek language proficiency.
Cypriot citizenship by investment
For a long time, the citizenship-by-investment programme remained one of the most popular ways to acquire a Cypriot passport. Although it has been impossible to obtain citizenship through investment since 2020, property buyers investing a minimum of 300,000 euros can significantly fast-track their path to obtaining a passport.
By investing in the Cypriot economy amounts from €300,000, one can reduce the residency requirement for obtaining citizenship from 7 to 5 years under the state programme Cyprus Fast Permanent Residence Permit.
To obtain permanent residency in Cyprus, one must invest at least €300,000 in the following options:
- Purchasing property, 1 or 2 units on the primary market from developers;
- The company’s share capital, which is physically located in Cyprus;
- Units of the Cypriot Collective Investment Scheme (Purchasing bonds, bills, and securities).
Foreign nationals over the age of 18 with an annual income of at least 50,000 euros can obtain permanent residency in Cyprus. The acceptable source of income depends on the chosen investment option. For instance, when purchasing property, the income must be earned exclusively outside of Cyprus.
Additionally, an investor’s family members can be included in the application for permanent residency. In that case, the required income level increases by 15,000 euros for a spouse and by 10,000 euros for each child. Citizenship applications can be submitted after 5 years of continuous residence in Cyprus.
Advantages of Obtaining Cypriot Citizenship
Cypriot citizenship offers its holders a plethora of advantages, both nationally and internationally. Thanks to its membership in the European Union, Cyprus is increasingly attracting investors, businessmen, and individuals seeking a high quality of life.
- Freedom of movement across EU countries. Cypriot citizenship grants the right to freely move, reside, and work in any European Union country. Cypriot citizens can visit all Schengen Area countries and a number of other states around the world without a visa.
- Access to the European healthcare system. Cypriot citizens have access to a high-quality healthcare system, both in Cyprus and in other EU countries. High medical standards and access to modern medical services ensure confidence in receiving quality treatment.
- The right to education in EU countries. Cypriot citizens can apply to universities and educational institutions across Europe on the same terms as citizens of those countries. This provides the opportunity to receive an education at prestigious institutions and benefit from student concessions, such as tuition fee discounts and scholarships.
- The tax system. For citizens, residents, and companies, low tax rates have been established here, making Cyprus an attractive place for doing business. The corporate tax rate is 12.5%, which is lower than in most EU countries.
- Business opportunities. As an EU member, Cyprus offers access to the single market, allowing businesses to operate across 27 countries. Flexible corporate legislation and support for foreign investments also contribute to economic growth.
- High standard of living and safety. It is one of the safest places to live in Europe, with a low crime rate and stable political situation.
- Visa-free travel. Holders of a Cypriot passport can visit more than 170 countries without a visa.
What are the benefits of permanent residency in Cyprus?
Having a permanent residence in Cyprus opens doors to the EU. This country offers a favourable lifestyle, economic opportunities, and high-quality healthcare, which is why thousands of people wish to make Cyprus their new home.
Holders of Cyprus permanent resident cards do not require a visa to enter, even if the country’s borders are closed to foreigners. Investors’ children have equal access to education in Cyprus and enjoy the same rights as the country’s citizens. Cyprus is also home to branches of international schools and universities.
The Cyprus IP Box regime allows for an 80% tax exemption on profits from intellectual property, significantly increasing the profitability of innovations.
Under the new GESY programme, residents of Cyprus can access medical services at significantly reduced prices, and in some cases, for free.
Individuals of retirement age who possess sufficient financial resources can obtain residency in Cyprus on favourable terms. The country offers opportunities for obtaining work and residency permits for highly skilled professionals and investors.
Services for obtaining a Cypriot passport and identity card
Obtaining a Cypriot passport and identity card officially confirms citizenship, grants the right to live and move within EU countries, and provides access to various government services.
A Cypriot passport is an official document that confirms Cypriot citizenship and grants the right to visa-free entry to more than 170 countries worldwide. You can only obtain a passport after you have become a citizen of Cyprus.
An application for a passport must be submitted to the Cyprus Ministry of Interior or the nearest consulate. You will need to fill out a special application form and provide the necessary documents.
- Cyprus citizenship certificate;
- Cyprus citizen’s identity card (if it has already been obtained);
- Свидетельство о рождении;
- Proof of residence in Cyprus (for example, utility bills);
- 4 passport-sized photographs;
- State duty paid.
Passports are issued for a period of 10 years for adults and 5 years for children.
The Cypriot ID card (identity card) is a mandatory document for citizens of Cyprus, serving as the primary means of identification both within the country and when travelling to other EU countries. Applications for an ID card can also be submitted to the Cyprus Ministry of Interior or a consulate. Required documents include:
- Свидетельство о гражданстве Кипра;
- Свидетельство о рождении;
- Proof of address;
- 2 passport-sized photographs;
- Оплаченная государственная пошлина.
Applying for an ID card can take from a few days to several weeks, depending on where the application is submitted. It is issued for a period of up to 10 years for adults and 5 years for children.
In addition to citizenship or permanent residency in Cyprus, one can also obtain the following permits for legal residence in the country:
- Temporary Residence Permit, known as the Pink Slip, is required for citizens from non-EU countries for legal residence in Cyprus.
- Temporary Residence Permit, Yellow Slip: for EU/EEA citizens living in Cyprus for more than 4 months, includes a work permit;
- Permanent residence: after 5 years of continuous living, marriage to a Cypriot, or permanent employment;
- EU Blue Card: Highly skilled professionals seeking employment in Cyprus;
- Digital nomad visa: a permit for IT professionals wishing to live and work in Cyprus.
Our firm offers comprehensive services to support clients through all stages of obtaining documents. We provide professional consultations on the process of applying for a passport and ID card, explain all legal requirements, and prepare a complete set of documents for submission. Our lawyers will help expedite the application review process by providing constant monitoring of the application status and resolving any potential issues that may arise from government bodies.
How our law firm can assist with immigration and citizenship in Cyprus
Our team of qualified solicitors has extensive experience in the field of immigration law, providing clients with comprehensive services related to obtaining residency permits, citizenship, and conducting business in Cyprus. We are ready to offer you expert assistance at every step of the way towards a successful outcome.
We provide comprehensive legal advice and services on all aspects of immigration to Cyprus. We will help you choose the best method for obtaining residency or citizenship, depending on your personal and business goals. Our firm takes responsibility for collecting, preparing, and verifying all necessary documents, significantly reducing the risk of rejection.
If you are entitled to Cypriot citizenship by descent or through marriage to a Cypriot national, our team will assist with the preparation of the relevant applications and provide advice on the necessary documents.
We also arrange meetings with immigration service representatives to avoid delays. Our firm can assist with opening a bank account and prepare it for you in advance. Register upon arrival and get the opportunity for swift account activation, as we will facilitate your bank visit.
We possess the necessary knowledge and experience to successfully handle matters related to immigration and citizenship in Cyprus. Our team of lawyers is pleased to offer qualified assistance at all stages of the process.
