Cyprus
The Cyprus investor residency program grants permanent residency to foreign investors who commit a qualifying amount of capital. Beneficiaries can live in Cyprus and enjoy freedom of movement within the European Union, with a long-term pathway to citizenship. The program is designed to channel real economic contribution into the Cypriot economy.
Cyprus Investor Residency Program
The Cyprus investor residency program grants permanent residency to foreign investors who commit a qualifying amount of capital. Beneficiaries can live in Cyprus and enjoy freedom of movement within the European Union, with a long-term pathway to citizenship. The program is designed to channel real economic contribution into the Cypriot economy.
Major Investment Options
1. Residential Real Estate
Purchase new residential property worth at least €300,000 (excluding VAT).
May acquire two units of at least €150,000 each from different developers.
Hold for a minimum of 5 years; the property may be sold after the 5-year holding period.
2. Commercial Real Estate
Purchase new or resale commercial property of at least €300,000 (excluding VAT).
May acquire two units of at least €150,000 each from different developers.
3. Investment in a Cyprus Company
Invest at least €300,000 in shares of a company registered in Cyprus.
The company must have genuine operations in Cyprus and employ at least 5 staff.
4. Cyprus Investment Funds
Invest at least €300,000 in a Cypriot investment fund (AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF, etc.).
The fund must be approved by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).
Application Process Summary
1. Select an investment route and prepare funds
Pick one of the options above and arrange the required capital.
2. Open a Cypriot bank account
Open an account for investment and fund transfer purposes.
3. Execute investment and submit documents
Carry out the chosen investment and lodge the required paperwork.
4. Residency approval
After review, the residence permit is granted.
5. Citizenship application (after 7 years)
Citizenship may be applied for after 7 years of residency.
Important Notes
Investment holding period
The Cyprus PR program is geared toward citizenship after 5+ years; early withdrawal may affect residency status.
Local transfer & source of funds
Investment funds must be transferred through a Cypriot bank and the source of funds documented lawfully.
Periodic visits
To maintain PR you must visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
Health · criminal record · language
Applicants must demonstrate good health and a clean record; some Greek-language proficiency may be required for citizenship.
Eligibility
1. Age & health
Applicants must be at least 18 years old and in good health.
2. Legal record
Applicants must have no criminal record in Cyprus; a record may lead to refusal.
3. Investment threshold
The minimum investment amount must be met, with lawful proof of source of funds.
4. Residency requirement
After PR, applicants must visit Cyprus at least every 2 years; citizenship may be applied for after 7 years of residency.
5. Family inclusion
Spouse and children may be included. Children must be under 18, or under 26 if financially dependent.
Advantages of the Cyprus Program
- 1
EU residency
Live and move freely within EU countries, including Cyprus.
- 2
Tax benefits
Favorable tax regime, including low income and inheritance tax rates.
- 3
PR and citizenship pathway
Eligible to apply for citizenship after 7 years of residency.
- 4
Family inclusion
Spouse, children, and other direct family members may be included.
- 5
High quality of life
Safe environment, excellent healthcare, and strong education system.
The Cyprus investor residency program offers foreign investors EU residency and a clear pathway to citizenship, along with a variety of investment routes for portfolio diversification and economic benefit. Cyprus's high standard of living and stable environment add to the program's appeal.
