Cyprus residency by investment

Have questions? We're here to help!

Message us on Telegram or WhatsApp for fast assistance!

Cyprus previously offered citizenship for investment, but the program was suspended in November 2020 following legislative and regulatory changes. Today, there is no active Cyprus citizenship by investment scheme, but the Golden Visa program opens the way to permanent residence through investment in real estate or business. This residence permit offers long-term security and a path to citizenship after several years.

On this page, we explain the current options, costs, and who can apply for a Golden Visa—Legarithm's lawyers provide professional assistance with all the processes.

Cyprus 7

What does Cyprus residency by investment provide?

  • stamp - Legarithm
    Click to read more

    Visa-free travel

    Cypriot citizenship entitles you to travel without a visa to more than 170 countries, including the entire European Union.

  • Laptop User - Legarithm
    Click to read more

    Possibility to live and work in the EU

    Citizens of Cyprus have the right to legally reside, work and conduct business in any country of the European Union.

  • protection - Legarithm
    Click to read more

    Investment protection

    Both Non-Dom residents and Cypriot citizens can invest without additional tax burden and enjoy a robust legal system to protect their assets.

  • Tropical island aerial view
    Click to read more

    Tax benefits

    Non-Dom residents are exempt from tax on dividends, interest and capital gains received outside Cyprus. There are also no inheritance and gift taxes. Corporate tax is 12.5%, which is one of the lowest in the EU.

  • freelance - Legarithm
    Click to read more

    Ease of doing business

    Company registration takes minimal time, and Non-Dom residents can conduct business without additional tax burdens.

  • ьщмштп - Legarithm
    Click to read more

    High quality of life

    Cyprus offers a European level of healthcare, education, and social security, as well as a pleasant climate and a safe environment for families.

What are the Legal Requirements in Residence And Citizenship?

Non-Dom tax residency

To become a tax resident of Cyprus, you must reside 183 days a year or meet the “60-day rule”. The candidate must also conduct economic activity, work or invest in Cyprus.

Citizenship by naturalization

To obtain citizenship, you must have resided in Cyprus for 7 years (or 5 years for persons with Cypriot children), have legal status and prove financial stability.

8 steps to obtaining residence and citizenship

  • Step 01

    Residence permit

    First, you need to obtain a temporary residence permit (residence permit). For Ukrainians, there is a possibility of obtaining Temporary Protection (TP), which simplifies this process.

  • Step 02

    Renting or buying a home

    Residents and persons applying for citizenship need to rent or buy housing. The minimum lease term is 1 year, and a stamp is required for payments of more than EUR 5,000 per year.

  • Step 03

    Company registration

    Residents can register a business, which includes filing an application, registering with the tax office, and opening a bank account.

  • Step 04

    Official employment

    To obtain the Non-Dom status, the candidate must be officially employed or run his/her own business in Cyprus.

  • Step 05

    Social security number (SSN)

    The company needs to be registered with the Social Insurance Department and the employee receives a Social Insurance Number.

  • Step 06

    Taxes and social security contributions

    Salaries are paid officially, with social security deductions and PAYE.

  • Step 07

    Tax residency

    After fulfilling the requirements, an application for a Tax Identification Number (TIN) is submitted.

  • Step 08

    Citizenship

    After 7 years of residence, you can apply to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of Cyprus, which includes verification of documents, submission of proof of financial stability and a certificate of no criminal record.

Cyprus residence: Current realities and pathways

Cyprus has long been known as an attractive destination for foreign investors seeking a strategic base in Europe. While the direct Cyprus citizenship by investment program was suspended in 2020, Cyprus continues to offer a robust route to residency — commonly referred to as the “Cyprus Golden Visa.” This permanent residence-by-investment program is a clear, structured way for non-EU nationals to gain legal status in Cyprus, with the added benefit of a potential pathway to citizenship over time.

What is the Cyprus Golden Visa?

The Cyprus Golden Visa is an immigration program that grants non-EU, non-EEA, and non-Swiss nationals the right to obtain permanent residency by investing in Cyprus. The main focus of the program is attracting foreign capital, with streamlined procedures and a clear set of requirements.

Key aspects include:

Minimum investment of €300,000 in qualifying assets.
Eligibility for the main applicant, spouse, and dependent children up to 25 years old.
The right to live, study, and benefit from the local healthcare system.
No language test or residency obligation, beyond a visit once every two years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Still have questions?

Can't find the answer to your question? Send us an email and we'll get back to you as soon as possible!
Can I work in Cyprus under permanent residence?

No, unless you are a director in the company you invested in.

How soon can I apply for Cypriot residence?

You may become eligible to apply for citizenship by naturalization after seven years of residence (including at least five years of actual presence).

What if I sell my investment?

If you divest without immediately replacing the asset with another qualifying investment, your residence permit will be revoked.

Is there a language test or residency requirement for the Golden Visa?

There is no language requirement for the Golden Visa. You must visit Cyprus only once every 2 years to maintain your residency status. There is no obligation to live in Cyprus unless you plan to apply for citizenship after 7 years.

Can I apply remotely?

Yes, most processes can be completed without physical presence.

We Are Always Available

Our team ensures your business setup is smooth, efficient, and compliant with local laws. Contact us today to discuss your project.

Offices map
Estonia
Ukraine
Cyprus
UAE
United States
cyprus

Cyprus, Limassol

Arch. Makarios Av. III, No. 1-7, Mitsis Building 3, 3rd floor, Office 302, 1065 Nicosia

estonia

Estonia, Tallinn

Tallinn,  Harju maakond, Lasnamäe linnaosa, Ruunaoja tn 3, 11415

uae

UAE, Dubai

Building A1, Dubai Digital Park, Dubai Silicon Oasis, Dubai, UAE

ukraine

Ukraine, Kyiv

Kyiv, Mykhailo Boychuk Street, Office 3011, 01103, Ukraine

usa

United States, New York

228 Park Ave S, New York City, New York, 10003, USA

Get in Touch

Leave your inquiry, and our legal team will get back to you as soon as possible. Initial consultation is free of charge and confidential.