In 2024, Cyprus continues to attract foreign nationals by offering various legal residence options, including temporary residence permits (TRP), permanent residency (PR), and citizenship. These statuses enable foreigners to integrate into Cypriot society and enjoy all the benefits of living on the island. Let’s examine each status in detail, including the eligibility requirements and benefits.
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TRP (Temporary Residence Permit) in Cyprus
In Cyprus, there are two main types of residence permits: work-related TRP and Visitor Visa. Both statuses allow foreigners to temporarily reside in Cyprus, but they do not grant the right to permanent residency or citizenship.
Work TRP
A work residence permit is issued to foreign nationals who have secured an employment contract with a Cypriot employer. This permit is valid for the duration of the contract. To obtain a work visa, applicants must provide documents proving employment, housing, and financial stability. The work TRP allows individuals to legally reside and work on the island.
Visitor Visa (or Pink Slip)
The Visitor Visa is intended for foreign nationals who do not plan to work in Cyprus but wish to live there temporarily. This visa is popular among retirees or property owners who want to spend part of their time in Cyprus. The primary requirement for obtaining this visa is proof of financial independence and sufficient funds to live in the country. However, the Visitor Visa does not grant employment rights. The applicant’s income must originate from outside Cyprus or come from dividends from a Cypriot company.
Benefits of TRP in Cyprus
Obtaining a TRP allows foreigners to legally live in Cyprus and enjoy the rights associated with their status. It’s important to note that the work TRP provides the right to work legally in Cyprus-based foreign interest companies, while the Visitor Visa allows residents to enjoy the island without employment rights (although they can establish a company in Cyprus and conduct business).
However, TRP is a temporary residence permit that requires regular renewal. Those looking for more stable living conditions in Cyprus should consider applying for permanent residency in the future.
PR (Permanent Residency) in Cyprus
Permanent residency (PR) allows foreign nationals to live in Cyprus on a permanent basis. Unlike the TRP, PR does not require regular renewal and can be maintained if certain conditions are met. In 2024, there are two main categories of PR: the Long-Term Residence Permit (LTRP) and Category 6.2, related to real estate investment.
LTRP (Long-Term Residence Permit)
The Long-Term Residence Permit is granted to foreign nationals who have legally resided in Cyprus for at least five years. To obtain this status, applicants must prove their legal residence, stable income, and financial independence. It’s important to show that the applicant can support themselves and their family without relying on government aid. Additionally, a certificate of Greek language proficiency at level A2 and knowledge of Cypriot political and cultural realities are required.
LTRP provides a stable legal status and allows foreigners to live in Cyprus on a permanent basis. This status is ideal for those who have worked or conducted business on the island for a long time.
PR through Real Estate Investment (Category 6.2)
PR under Category 6.2 is granted to foreign nationals who invest in real estate worth at least €300,000 (excluding VAT). To participate in this program, it is necessary to purchase a new property from a developer. This category is particularly popular among investors as it offers a fast and reliable way to obtain PR.
The benefits of the PR program under Category 6.2 include the ability to include family members in the application: spouses and children under 25. The applicant and their family are granted the right to permanent residence in Cyprus. It’s important to note that to maintain this status, the applicant must visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
Benefits of PR in Cyprus
PR offers numerous benefits for foreigners, including the right to permanent residence without the need for renewal. This makes Cyprus particularly attractive to those seeking a stable place to live in Europe.
Citizenship in Cyprus in 2024
In 2024, Cypriot citizenship can only be obtained through naturalization or marriage to a Cypriot citizen. Real estate investment does not directly grant citizenship but can help obtain PR, which may eventually lead to naturalization. To obtain citizenship, applicants must meet several requirements:
Minimum Residence of 8 Years
One of the key conditions for acquiring citizenship is residing in Cyprus for at least eight years. The last year of residence must be continuous, and during this period, the applicant may leave the country for no more than 90 days.
Greek Language Proficiency
Greek language proficiency is a mandatory requirement for obtaining citizenship. The applicant must pass a B1-level exam, which includes basic communication, reading, and writing skills in Greek. This is necessary to demonstrate the applicant’s ability to integrate into Cypriot society.
Social Integration
To obtain citizenship, the applicant must also pass an exam on the fundamental aspects of Cyprus’s political and social life. This exam includes questions about the government system, laws, culture, and history of the country. A minimum score of 60% is required to pass.
Financial Stability
The applicant must provide proof of financial stability, such as documents confirming a stable income, bank statements, and tax returns. Additionally, proof of ownership of property in Cyprus is required.
Citizenship Application Process
The process of acquiring citizenship in Cyprus through naturalization requires time and careful preparation. After submitting the application, the process may take from 3 to 5 years. It is important to meet all the requirements and provide all necessary documents to increase the chances of a successful application.
The applicant must reside in Cyprus throughout the waiting period and maintain financial stability. Obtaining citizenship grants full civil rights, including the right to vote, access to social services, and the ability to travel visa-free across the EU.
In 2024, TRP, PR, and Cypriot citizenship remain accessible to foreign nationals who meet the established requirements. TRP offers temporary residence and employment opportunities, while PR allows foreigners to enjoy stable residence in Cyprus on a permanent basis. Real estate investment remains one of the fastest ways to obtain PR through Category 6.2. Cypriot citizenship, though requiring a lengthy naturalization process, opens up many opportunities such as the right to work, travel, and live in EU countries.
