Cyprus Golden Visa (Permanent Residency by Investment)
The Cyprus Golden Visa refers to the Permanent Residency by Investment Program launched in 2013 for non-EU nationals. Investors may obtain Cyprus permanent residency with an unlimited duration by choosing one of the available investment options. This program is distinct from the citizenship by investment program, which was discontinued in 2020. Cyprus has been an official member of the EU since 2004.
Your trusted partner
Next Citizen supports individuals and families pursuing residency by investment with a clear, compliant, and organized process. We help you select the right investment route, prepare the required documentation, and guide you step-by-step through submission.
Case strategy
Route selection + income planning + document checklist.
End-to-end guidance
From initial review to biometrics and permit collection.
Cyprus is not in Schengen
Cyprus permanent residence does not grant visa-free travel to Schengen countries because Cyprus is not yet a member of the Schengen zone. We help you plan travel correctly based on your passport and residency status.
Biometrics
The process can be facilitated remotely, but a brief visit is required for biometric capturing and permit collection.
Average processing time is approximately 3 months (case dependent).
Real estate, shares of Cypriot companies, or shares of Cypriot investment funds.
Minimum value of €300,000 + VAT (5% to 19% depending on the case/type).
Spouses and children under 18 qualify. Children aged 18–25 may be eligible if financially dependent and studying outside Cyprus.
CYPRUS GOLDEN VISA — PERMANENT RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT
Legal framework (summary)
The Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment program is based on the Aliens and Immigration Regulation 6(2) of Cyprus (2005).
Important
Rules and procedures can change. Next Citizen confirms the latest requirements, eligible investment routes, and documentation for your case.
Fast & easy
The process is efficient and typically takes around 3 months (case dependent).
Low stay requirement
No physical residency is required; typically one visit every two years is required to maintain status (rules apply).
Remote-friendly
The process can be facilitated remotely, with a brief visit required for biometrics and permit collection.
Path to citizenship (residency-based)
Eligible to apply for Cyprus citizenship after 5 years of living in Cyprus (subject to legal conditions).
Lifestyle & tax
Right to healthcare for applicants; potential tax advantages such as no inheritance tax (rules depend on your tax residency).
Business environment
One of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at 12.5% (subject to tax rules and eligibility).
Work rights
Residency by investment generally does not grant the right to work in Cyprus, with limited exceptions. Next Citizen will advise based on your intended activity and the latest rules.
In addition to the investment, investors must demonstrate a secure annual income of at least €50,000 from abroad, plus €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 per dependent child (as applicable). Spouse income may be considered depending on source.
Option 1 — Real Estate
Purchase new residential properties from a developer or resale commercial property. The investment must be paid in full with funds from abroad (not sourced/borrowed in Cyprus).
Residential: €300,000 + VAT (5%–19%)
Commercial: €300,000 + 19% VAT
Option 2 — Shares of Cypriot Companies
Purchase shares or establish a Cyprus company and invest in share capital. Company must be based/operating in Cyprus with a proven physical presence and minimum 5 employees.
Minimum: €300,000
Option 3 — Investment Funds
Acquire shares of Cypriot investment funds (AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF). Eligible funds vary by government criteria.
Minimum: €300,000
VAT reduction (summary)
If the property is for personal use, VAT may be reduced to 5% (eligibility and property criteria apply). Residential properties must be new; off-plan may be eligible irrespective of delivery date, and commercial properties may include offices/shops/hotels (resale/used).
Verifications & maintenance
Annually: evidence you maintain the investment and health insurance. Every three years: clean criminal record for applicants from country of origin and residence. Status may be lost if you acquire permanent residence abroad or remain outside Cyprus for 2 years (rules apply).
Additional costs may apply (government fees, document certifications, courier, and disbursements). Contact Next Citizen for a detailed quotation.
Start the process
Next Citizen onboarding and file setup. Arrange the appointment for filing the application and begin compiling the required documentation.
Government evaluation & investment execution
Open a Cypriot bank account (as required), select the investment option, transfer investment amount, and assemble the file per government guidelines. Submit the application to the Migration Department in Nicosia with supporting documents.
Approval & permit issuance
Approval is issued and the Cyprus Permanent Residency Permit is granted. After approval, you must visit Cyprus within one year to provide biometrics and collect the permits.
Note: Processing time depends on due diligence and case specifics.
Age
Main applicant must be at least 18.
Good character
Clean criminal record and good reputation.
Health
Good health and medical certificate (as required).
Investment
Qualifying investment + due diligence/background checks.
The following is a general guideline. Next Citizen prepares a personalized checklist based on your case.
For all applicants
• Original + certified copies of valid passports
• Certified marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Certified birth certificates
• Health insurance for all applicants
• Proof of permanent address in Cyprus
• Receipt for payment of relevant fees
• Evidence of no criminal convictions
Main applicant documents
• Proof of annual income declaration (bank statements)
• Proof investment amount transferred from abroad
• Investment ownership / investment-related documents
Frequently asked questions
What is the Cyprus residency by investment program?
It allows investors to obtain Cyprus permanent residency with unlimited duration by choosing an eligible investment option (real estate, shares of Cypriot companies, or shares of Cypriot investment funds) subject to the current rules.
Can I work in Cyprus with this residency?
The program generally does not grant the right to work, with limited exceptions. Next Citizen will advise based on your case.
Can my residency be revoked?
Yes—status may be lost if the holder stays outside Cyprus for 2 years, or under other conditions listed by the rules.
Who can be included?
Spouse and children under 18 qualify. Children 18–25 may be eligible if financially dependent and studying outside Cyprus (conditions apply).
Does Cyprus residency give Schengen travel?
No. Cyprus is not in the Schengen zone, so Cyprus permanent residence does not grant visa-free travel to Schengen countries.
What are my next steps?
Contact Next Citizen with your preferred investment option and family details. We’ll confirm eligibility, prepare your checklist, and share a detailed quotation.
Let’s discuss your Cyprus Golden Visa
Confidential consultation
Share your profile, family members to include, and your preferred investment option. We’ll guide you through eligibility, income requirements, and the step-by-step process.
What we’ll cover
Investment option, income planning, checklist, timeline, and submission steps.
Response time
We aim to reply quickly during business hours.