Permanent Residency

Cyprus Permanent Residency
Scheme

Overview

The Cyprus Permanent Residency Scheme (“PR”), also known as the Cyprus Golden Visa, is an investment-based program launched in 2020. It grants lifelong permanent residency to non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals and their families through a minimum €300,000 investment in Cyprus.

Key Benefits for PR Holders & Dependents

  • Residency Perks Live, study and access healthcare & education in Cyprus and European Union without Entry Visa.
  • Family & Lifestyle English-speaking environment, sunny climate, high quality of life, safe country.
  • Tax Advantages Low income tax, low corporate taxes; exemptions on dividends/interest; no inheritance/gift taxes.
  • Path to Citizenship Eligible after 7 years (full-time residency); Cypriot passport allows visa-free access to 168+ countries.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals aged 18+.
  • Annual income of at least €50,000 from abroad (€15,000 extra for
    spouse, €10,000 per dependent child), proven via tax returns.
  • Clean criminal record from home country.

Family Inclusion: Spouse, children under 18, and unmarried children 18-25 studying in Cyprus. Children under 18 retain residency.

Investment Options

Residential

Buy new residential property worth €300,000+ plus VAT

Company Shares*

Invest €300,000+ in a Cypriot company employing 5+ EU/Cypriot citizens

Commercial Property*

Office, shop, or hotel worth €300,000+ plus VAT

Investment Funds*

Invest €300,000+ in CySEC-regulated funds (AIF, UCITS, RAIF)

Flexibility

Can sell after 5 years if replacing with equivalent investment to retain residency.
*Rental accommodation must already be in place.

Application Process

Step by Step

1

Select & Make Investment

Choose investment option; pay €200,000+ upfront and open a Cyprus bank account.

2

Gather Documents

Passport, CV, income proof, criminal record, family certificates, health insurance, photos, and investment evidence.

3

Submit Application

To Civil Registry and Migration Department; pay €500 fee per adult applicant.

4

Approval & Biometrics

Receive approval in 3-6 months; visit Cyprus for fingerprints and collect 10-year residency card.

5

Maintenance

Submit annual proofs of income, investment, insurance, and clean record.

Costs & Considerations

  • Minimum Investment: €300,000
  • Government Fees: €500 application (main + spouse); €500 per dependent; €70 Alien Registration Certificate per person
  • Additional Costs: VAT (5-19% on property), transfer fees, stamp duty
  • Ongoing: €50,000+ annual income proof; property maintenance
  • Retaining: Residency is dependent on retaining property
  • No need to live in Cyprus; can visit once every two years