24.03.2024
Recent changes to the requirements for obtaining Cypriot citizenship have introduced significant preconditions, making the process virtually unattainable for most applicants. These new restrictions include a number of factors that applicants must meet to apply.
One of the key changes is the requirement of continuous residence in Cyprus for 12 months before submitting the application, with the applicant’s absence from the island of up to 90 days not interrupting this period. Candidates must also have an impeccable reputation and demonstrate their knowledge of the Greek language by passing a written examination.
Other new requirements include demonstrating sufficient knowledge of the local political and social environment before a three-member examination committee, having suitable accommodation and stable financial resources to support the applicant and his or her dependent family, and a genuine intention to reside on the island. Applicants must meet all the above requirements and if any one condition is not met, their application will be rejected.
It is important to note that these new requirements are retrospective and apply to applications that were filed before the new amended law was enacted in March 2024. They also apply to all EU countries, with the exception of Ireland and Denmark, which have opted out of them.
In light of these changes, highly skilled foreign workers now have the opportunity to obtain Cypriot citizenship after living on the island for four or five years depending on their qualifications, compared to the previous seven years. They must demonstrate a high level of professional skills and pass a Greek language exam.
According to the European Commission, highly skilled workers are defined as “individuals with developed technical, academic and interpersonal skills.”
Moreover, eligible highly qualified workers must have advanced professional qualifications, such as higher education, and have entered into an employment contract or a mandatory job offer for at least one year with a salary above the EU average.
The amended law now states that highly skilled workers can apply for citizenship provided they pass a Greek language test at level B1 (intermediate knowledge) if they have worked in the country for five years, or at the lower level A1 (basic knowledge ) if they have worked in the country for four years. By law, no history/cultural tests are required for applications submitted by highly qualified workers.
Despite the difficulties, the new requirements may be an attempt by the government to regulate the number of applications and create a clearer and more transparent system for obtaining citizenship.
