21.01.2024
The Republic of Cyprus has made significant amendments to the law regulating the naturalization procedure for foreign citizens based on the number of years of residence in Cyprus. The changes, published on 19 December 2023 in the Official Gazette of the Government, took effect immediately and tightened the requirements for candidates wishing to obtain Cypriot citizenship.
In accordance with the amendments to the Civil Registry Law 2002 (Law 141(I)/2002), a new Article 111B was added, defining the criteria that foreign nationals must meet to apply for Cypriot citizenship by naturalization.
Key requirements for naturalization include:
- Accommodation in the Republic. Applicants must prove that they have been lawfully and continuously resident in the Republic for the 12 months immediately preceding the submission of the application.
- Law-abiding. Candidates must be law-abiding and not in trouble with the law, not support the illegal administration in the occupied north and not have convictions for serious crimes.
- Knowledge of the language. Sufficient knowledge of the Greek language at level B 1 , confirmed by an appropriate certificate, is required.
- Knowledge of the current political and social situation. Candidates must have knowledge of the basics of the modern political and social reality of the Republic.
- Suitable housing and financial stability. Applicants must have suitable housing and stable financial resources for themselves and their dependents.
- Sincere intention to live in the Republic. It is necessary to prove a sincere intention to reside in Cyprus after obtaining citizenship.
These requirements tighten the criteria for obtaining citizenship, placing emphasis on the applicant’s real connection with Cyprus, including knowledge of the language and culture. The law is retroactive, meaning that all pending applications submitted before its publication will be assessed against the new requirements.
The Government of Cyprus thereby emphasizes that obtaining citizenship is a privilege granted to those who fully meet the established criteria, have an impeccable reputation, speak the language, etc. These measures are aimed at strengthening the social and cultural integration of foreign citizens wishing to become full members of Cypriot society.
