7 Ways to Obtain a Residence Permit in Cyprus: Features and Benefits

Migration is currently a common trend driven by favorable global conditions. Moving is often motivated by political or economic factors and dissatisfaction with the climate of the home country. Individuals seek suitable places to live based on climate, political stability, and economic situations. From this perspective, Cyprus emerges as an excellent place to live.

The country's popularity in terms of population migration is confirmed by the following statistics:

• Cyprus is one of the leaders among EU countries in the issuance of residence permits, ranking 4th.
• As of 2020, 93 thousand foreign citizens live on the island annually (data provided by Eurostat).
• The country offers 15 types of residence permits.

These data demonstrate a high level of foreign interest in Cyprus, indicating that the country is attracting people for long-term stays and permanent residency.

What is Important to Know About Residence Permit in Cyprus

If you are planning a long-term move to Cyprus, you should understand that you will need a residence permit to legalize your presence in the country. A temporary residence permit (also called a pink slip in Cyprus) is a legal document that grants foreign citizens the right to stay in the country for more than 90 days. It is issued for a period of one year with the possibility of further extension.

There are more than 15 ways to obtain a residence permit, such as employment, study, acquisition of property, creation and reunification of a family, etc.

It is important to note that by obtaining a residence permit in Cyprus, a foreign citizen accepts certain restrictions on movement. In particular, it is prohibited to leave the country for more than 3 months. If this condition is violated, the residence permit is automatically canceled.

Grounds for Obtaining a Residence Permit in Cyprus

Next, we will look at the 5 most popular grounds for obtaining a residence permit in Cyprus. The listed methods require the least effort.

1STUDIES:

Students enrolled in universities in Cyprus can apply for a residence permit. To submit an application, you must collect a package of documents, which includes an international passport, parental consent (for minors), a medical certificate and insurance, a certificate of no criminal record, confirmation of admission to an educational institution, photographs, and an application. The period for issuing a residence permit is within 3 months. This GNI gives the right to work in parallel with studies.

2EMPLOYMENT:

This is the second most popular way to obtain a residence permit because every second foreigner submits documents due to employment. Please note that foreigners have the right to find employment only in organizations with foreign participation. The following criteria are set for the applicant: age over 18 years, citizenship of non-EU member countries, existence of an employment contract in an organization in Cyprus with foreign participation.

3BUYING A PROPERTY:

This is the easiest and fastest way to apply for a residence permit in Cyprus. To do this, it is enough to purchase real estate (residential or commercial) for an amount of 300,000 euros. The main requirements for the applicant: age 18+ years, no criminal record, and no ban on entry into EU countries.

4FAMILY REUNIFICATION:

This paragraph applies to foreigners who marry a citizen of Cyprus. When registering a marriage with a Cypriot, the spouse receives the right to apply for a residence permit in Cyprus.

5STARTUP DEVELOPMENT:

The country encourages innovative development and attracts talented, promising foreigners to develop business ideas on the island. Please note that the number of residence permits under this article is limited to 150 visas.

A complete list of grounds for obtaining a residence permit in the country can be found on the website of the Department of Civil Registration and Migration.

Advantages of a Residence Permit in Cyprus

Obtaining a residence permit in Cyprus opens up many opportunities for foreign citizens. Key benefits include:

1. Obtaining visas (Schengen area and USA) using a simplified procedure.
2. Reduced tax expenses. Cyprus is known for one of the most flexible tax systems.
3. Quality medical care at reasonable prices.
4. Decent European standard of living.
5. Ample opportunities for children and their upbringing.
6. Favorable climate and proximity to the sea.

These are the reasons that attract foreigners to the country and encourage them to stay for a long time. Moving to Cyprus helps stabilize and improve living conditions.

Permanent Residence and Citizenship: What is it and Is it Necessary?

Permanent residence (permanent residence) is another form of legal stay on the island. It serves as an intermediate link between Cypriot citizenship and a residence permit. Foreigners will have the right to obtain permanent residence after 5 years of residence in Cyprus with a permanent residence permit. Next, two years with a permanent residence permit - and you can apply for citizenship. If a foreign citizen with a Cyprus residence permit often travels abroad, the period for obtaining citizenship may extend for another 2-3 years. For large investors, on the contrary, this period is reduced when investing significant financial resources.

How to Get a Residence Permit in Cyprus Easily and Quickly?

Collecting documents is always a long and exhausting procedure. We offer our services for consulting and obtaining both residence permits and permanent residence permits. Our specialists constantly monitor innovations and changes in the migration code, so we guarantee full compliance with all requirements. Our agency provides the following range of services:

1. Drawing up a legally competent application for immigration and permanent residence permits.
2. Drawing up an application for family reunification in accordance with accepted standards.
3. Assistance in drawing up a work permit and obtaining a work visa.
4. Support in obtaining a Digital Nomad Visa.
5. Full support when obtaining citizenship.

By contacting our company, your move to Cyprus will be easy and enjoyable. We will solve all immigration problems for you, and you will only enjoy a pleasant change of residence.