Cypriot Citizenship by Naturalization in 2024

At the end of 2023, the government of Cyprus introduced significant changes to naturalization laws aimed at simplifying the citizenship process for foreign nationals. These changes, effective as of November 30, 2023, affect both regular applicants and highly skilled professionals. Let’s take a closer look at what has changed and the opportunities now available for prospective Cypriot citizens.

Key Criteria for Naturalization

Under the new rules, applicants for Cypriot citizenship must meet the following criteria, as outlined in Article 111B(1) of the Civil Registry Law:

1. Lawful and Continuous Residence:

   • The applicant must have continuously resided in government-controlled areas of Cyprus for 12 months immediately prior to the application. Short absences (up to a total of 90 days) do not interrupt the required residence period.

2. Duration of Residence:

   • Lawful residence in Cyprus for a cumulative period of at least 7 years within the last ten years preceding the 12-month period.

3. No Criminal Record:

   • The applicant must not have any criminal convictions.

4. Knowledge of Greek Language:

   • The applicant must have a proficiency in the Greek language at a B1 level.

5. Understanding of Cyprus Political and Social Realities:

   • The applicant must demonstrate sufficient knowledge of Cyprus’s political and social realities (by passing an exam on Cyprus politics and culture).

6. Financial Stability:

   • The applicant must have a stable income sufficient to support themselves and their family. The minimum income required is €2,500 per month.

7. Residential Property:

   • The applicant must own or rent suitable accommodation in Cyprus.

8. Intention to Reside:

   • The applicant must demonstrate an intention to continue residing in Cyprus.

Citizenship by Naturalization for Highly Skilled Professionals

For highly skilled professionals working in specific sectors, special conditions apply, as stated in Article 111B(2):

1. Lawful and Continuous Residence:

   • Lawful and continuous residence for 12 months before applying. Short absences (up to 90 days) during this period do not interrupt the required residence period.

2. Reduced Residence Period:

   • Lawful residence for a cumulative period of at least 4 or 3 years, depending on the level of Greek language proficiency (A2 or B1 respectively) within the last ten years.

3. No Criminal Record:

   • The applicant must not have any criminal convictions.

4. Knowledge of Greek Language:

   • The applicant must have a proficiency in the Greek language at an A2 or B1 level.

5. Understanding of Cyprus Political and Social Realities:

   • Demonstrate sufficient knowledge of Cyprus’s political and social realities (certificate of passing the exam).

6. Financial Stability:

   • Stable income and ownership or rental of suitable accommodation.

7. Intention to Reside:

   • Intention to continue residing and working in Cyprus.

Eligible Sectors for Highly Skilled Professionals

Highly skilled professionals must be employed in the following sectors:

• Foreign companies operating in Cyprus with offices separate from private residences.
• Cypriot shipping companies.
• High-tech and innovative companies in aerospace, IT, pharmaceuticals, and biomedicine.
• Cypriot pharmaceutical companies.
• Companies in the fields of biogenetics and biotechnology.
• Companies registered in the Register of Foreign Companies of the Department of Registration and Migration.

Application Process and Review

Application Process

To apply for Cypriot citizenship, applicants must gather all required documents and submit them to the Department of Civil Registry and Migration. The documents must demonstrate compliance with all the above criteria, including proof of residence, income, language proficiency, and other relevant aspects.

Required Documents:

• Passport and other identification documents.
• Documents proving lawful residence in Cyprus.
• Certificates of Greek language proficiency (A2 or B1 level).
• Certificate of no criminal record.
• Documents of income and financial status.
• Rental or purchase agreement for housing.
• Certificate of passing the Cyprus politics and culture exam.

Application Review Time

After submission, the Department of Civil Registry and Migration reviews the application within 8 months. Applications from highly skilled professionals and their families are processed with priority.

Special Considerations for Family Members

Family members (spouses, partners, and minor children) can also apply for Cypriot citizenship. They must have resided in the country for at least 7 years within the last 11 years and have legally resided in Cyprus for one year before applying. Family members’ applications are processed after the principal applicant’s application is approved.

Military Service Obligation

Men who acquire Cypriot citizenship through naturalization are required to undergo military service. The obligation depends on age:

• For individuals aged 18 to 26 – 6 months of service.
• For individuals older than 26 – 3 months of service.

Conclusion

The changes to the naturalization laws in Cyprus, effective from November 30, 2023, have made the citizenship process more accessible for foreign nationals and highly skilled professionals. These changes aim to attract investment, foster economic growth, and strengthen Cyprus’s international standing. The new rules provide unique opportunities for those who aspire to become part of Cypriot society, making Cyprus an even more attractive place to live and work.

This article is intended solely for general information and awareness purposes. It is not a substitute for professional advice. One should not rely on the information from this article without obtaining independent advice tailored to the specific circumstances of your case. The authors and publishers are not responsible for any losses that may arise from actions or omissions based on this article.