Cyprus Golden Visa Guide

Cyprus's permanent residency by investment program allows non-EU nationals to obtain a permanent residence permit through property investment. Unlike some previous programs, Cyprus no longer offers citizenship by investment (that programme was terminated in 2020). The current permanent residency program remains active and is regulated by the Civil Registry and Migration Department.

• Purchase of new residential property: Minimum EUR 300,000 (plus VAT) from a property developer. The property must be a first sale (new construction).
• The full amount of EUR 300,000 must be paid; the remaining balance above this amount can be financed.
• Maintain a fixed deposit of EUR 30,000 in a Cypriot bank for 3 years.
• The property must be retained for as long as the permanent residence permit is held.

• Non-EU/EEA national
• Clean criminal record
• Proof of annual income of at least EUR 30,000 from abroad (plus EUR 5,000 per dependent and EUR 8,000 per dependent parent/parent-in-law)
• Income must come from sources outside Cyprus
• Must not intend to work in Cyprus as an employee (self-employment and business ownership permitted)
• Valid health insurance covering Cyprus

• Permanent residence permit valid for life (subject to conditions)
• Fast processing (typically 2 months)
• Include spouse, children under 25, and parents of both spouses
• No minimum stay requirement (but must visit Cyprus at least once every 2 years)
• Right to own property and open bank accounts in Cyprus
• Access to European education standards
• Favorable tax regime with one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the EU (12.5%)
• Path to citizenship through naturalization after 7 years of residency (5 years if specific conditions are met)

• 1 Select and purchase a qualifying new property (minimum EUR 300,000 plus VAT).
• 2 Open a Cypriot bank account and deposit EUR 30,000.
• 3 Obtain a tax identification number and complete property registration.
• 4 Prepare and submit the application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
• 5 Provide all required documents: property deed, bank statements, income proof, insurance, criminal record.
• 6 Receive the permanent residence permit (typically within 2 months).

Application fee: EUR 500. Property costs include VAT (reduced rate of 5% for first home up to certain limits, standard 19% otherwise), stamp duty, and legal fees. Budget approximately 5 to 8% of property value for total transaction costs beyond the purchase price.

Cyprus has one of the fastest Golden Visa processing times in Europe. Applications are typically approved within 2 months of submission with complete documentation.