Cyprus – How to Move and Stay Legally?

For years, Cyprus has attracted both major corporations and individuals from Europe, the post-Soviet region, Canada, the USA, and even Australia. Many come seeking a relaxed, comfortable lifestyle in a great climate, while others are drawn by the favorable conditions for work and business.  

Among the companies that have chosen Cyprus for their headquarters are NCR, Amdocs, and Viber. Tech giants like Microsoft, SAP, Oracle, and IBM have also maintained a presence on the island for years. A well-developed IT infrastructure, tax benefits (12.5% corporate tax and no tax on dividends), safety, and a pleasant climate make Cyprus an attractive place to live and do business.  

But how do you stay here legally? Let's go through the main options — from temporary and permanent residency to special programs for investors and digital nomads.  

Residency Options in Cyprus  

For EU Citizens  

EU nationals can stay in Cyprus for up to three months without any formalities. For longer stays, registration is required.  

Yellow Slip Registration:

• Processed through the Civil Registry and Migration Department.  
• Requires submitting Form MEU1.  
• Documents needed: passport, rental or property purchase agreement, employment contract, or proof of financial means, marriage and birth certificates (if applicable), 
• Grants the right to live and work indefinitely.  

What happens if you don’t register?

A fine of up to €2,000 and potential difficulties with future documentation.  

For non-EU family members

Spouses and children of EU citizens can apply for residency under Form MEU2 and receive the same status as the main applicant.  

For Non-EU Citizens  

Pink Slip – Temporary Residency Permit

Ideal for those who want to live in Cyprus but not work. Typically used by retirees, remote workers, and families who own property.  

• Issued for one year, renewable annually.  
• Does not grant work rights, but you can register a business.  
• Applicants must prove financial means: at least €24,000 per year + additional amounts for each family member.  

How to apply:

• Submit an application to the migration department.  
• Required documents: passport, bank statements, health insurance, criminal records certificate, marriage and birth certificates (original & translated, if applicable), rental or property ownership agreement.  
• Processing time: 3-6 months. Once the application is submitted, you can legally stay in Cyprus.  

For Digital Nomads & Entrepreneurs  

Digital Nomad Visa

The Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa is a special permit for remote workers employed by foreign companies. On March 3, 2022, the Council of Ministers increased the visa's quota to 500 residence permits. 

• Grants a one-year residency permit, extendable for up to two years.  
• Minimum income requirement: €3,500 per month after taxes.  
• Allows family members to join, but they cannot work in Cyprus. 

Find out how Cyprus amended the law to accelerate citizenship for highly skilled specialists in the article at the link.   

Permanent Residency in Cyprus  

Category F – Standard Permanent Residency

This status is available if you:  

• Can prove a stable annual income from abroad of at least €9,568 for themselves and an additional €4,613 for each dependent. This income should be sufficient to support a comfortable lifestyle in Cyprus without the need for employment or business activities within the country. Acceptable income sources include pensions, dividends, interest, and rental earnings from abroad. 

The approval process for the application may take more than two years from the date of submission.

The Category F permanent residence can cover certain persons as dependents. These are the applicant’s spouse and children under 18 years of age. For underage dependents, the permit will be valid until they reach the age of 18.Only the spouse and children are covered as dependents. The applicant's parents are not covered.

Once granted, permanent residency does not need renewal, but you cannot stay outside Cyprus for more than two consecutive years. 

Category 6.2 – Fast-Track Permanent Residency for Investors

Designed for investors who want immediate permanent residency.  

Permanent status, applicable to the spouse and children up to the age of 25. Children who obtain Cyprus permanent residency do not lose it upon turning 25, completing their studies, or getting married.

Key requirements:

• Purchase a new property worth at least €300,000 (excluding VAT).  
• Annual income of at least €50,000, plus additional amounts for family members - 15,000 for spouse and 10,000 for each child.  
• Clean criminal record and valid health insurance.  

Processing timeline:

• 2-7 months for application review.  
• 8-12 months to receive the permanent residency card.  

This option is ideal for those looking to secure status in Cyprus without the obligation to reside permanently.  

Buying Property in Cyprus – What to Expect  

The process is transparent, but there are important details:  

• Choosing a property – Buyers can purchase residential or commercial real estate.  
• Obtaining approval – Foreign buyers need approval from the Council of Ministers.  
• Signing the contract – The contract is registered with the Land Registry Department.  
• Payments – A minimum of €300,000 (excluding VAT) is required for permanent residency applications. VAT is 19%, but it can be reduced to 5% for личного пользования a first home purchase.  
• Transaction timeline – Depends on the property. New builds: from three weeks; resale properties: up to five months.

How We Help  

At Cyprus Sotheby’s International Realty, we’re more than just a real estate agency. We guide clients through every step:  

• Property selection – We help you find the right property based on your goals.  
• Transaction support – We explain payment processes and recommend trusted lawyers.  
• Residency applications – We provide guidance on required documents and help avoid common mistakes.  

Processing permanent residency after a property purchase takes 7-12 months. Demand is high, so it's best to apply in advance.   

Want to learn more about moving to Cyprus? Watch our webinar below.

Thinking About Moving to Cyprus? Let’s Talk!

We’ll help you find the right property in Cyprus, handle the paperwork, and guide you through the entire process. Fill out the form below for a free consultation, and we’ll discuss all your details to find the best solution for you.