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The Long Term Residence Permit (LTRP) in Cyprus offers third-country nationals the opportunity to live and work in Cyprus with rights similar to those of EU citizens. This status provides access to various social and economic benefits, including the right to work and access to healthcare services. LTRP ensures equal rights and protection against discrimination, facilitating the integration of foreign nationals into Cypriot society.
Contents
Key points
The long-term resident status in Cyprus is initially granted for five years and can be renewed indefinitely afterward. This status is available to third-country nationals (TCN) who are not EU citizens, in accordance with the Aliens and Immigration Law (Chapter 40) and Council Directive 2003/109/EC. The EU Directive establishes uniform rights and obligations for long-term residents, promoting their integration into society.
Eligibility
Residents of Cyprus who have legally and continuously lived under a work, visitor, or nomad visa in the Republic of Cyprus for five years prior to applying can submit an application for LTRP.
However, the five-year legal residence requirement does not apply to:
- Individuals residing on a student visa.
- Individuals under temporary protection or seeking asylum.
- Individuals in Cyprus on a tourist visa.
- Diplomats and international organization staff.
Conditions and requirements for obtaining LTRP
Required documents
To apply, the following documents are required:
- Application form (MLT1)
- Valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least two years, along with a copy of the passport and a copy of the page with the last entry stamp into Cyprus.
- Residence permit: Current residence permit in the Republic of Cyprus.
- Qualifications: Certified and translated diplomas and certificates in English or Greek, proving academic and professional qualifications.
- Employment contract: Employment contract, if the applicant lives in Cyprus on a work visa.
- Financial documents: Bank statements to prove financial stability.
- Criminal record certificate: Certificate obtained from the police station in Cyprus.
- Health insurance.
- Greek language proficiency certificate (Level A2): The exam is conducted by the Ministry of Education in Nicosia, with tasks set by the Greek government’s Center for the Greek Language. You can register for the exam on their website.
- Certificate of success in the Cyprus political and cultural life exam: Confirms knowledge about the country and its culture. Held several times a year.
Application process
Applications are submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia. The application process includes several key steps:
- Document collection: Gather all necessary documents. Note the requirement for translation and certification of documents if they are not in Greek or English.
- Submission of application: The application is submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department. A registration fee of 30 euros is charged for the application.
- Application review: The review process typically takes 12 to 15 months.
Benefits of LTRP
Right to work and access to GESY
One of the key benefits is the right to work and self-employment in Cyprus without the need for additional permits. LTRP holders also have access to the public healthcare system (GESY) on the same terms as Cypriot citizens.
LTRP holders gain access to educational and social services under the same conditions as Cypriot citizens. This includes eligibility for educational grants and access to social protection.
LTRP for family members
LTRP also extends to the family members of the main applicant. The spouse and children under 18 years old can apply for LTRP after the primary applicant has obtained a residence permit.
Applying for citizenship
LTRP holders can apply for Cypriot citizenship after eight years of residence and passing a Greek language proficiency test at level B1. This will grant them all the rights and obligations of a Cypriot citizen, including participation in the country’s political life. Having LTRP will be an advantage when applying for a Cypriot passport.
LTRP in Cyprus offers numerous benefits to third-country nationals, including the right to work, access to medical and educational services, and, most importantly, the ability to live in Cyprus permanently. The application process requires meeting certain conditions and providing specific documents, but the outcome is stability and rights comparable to those of EU citizens.
For more detailed information and access to the latest forms and list of documents for submission, we recommend visiting the official website of the Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional advice. Do not rely on the information in this article without seeking independent advice tailored to your specific circumstances. The authors and publishers are not liable for any losses that may result from actions or omissions based on this article.
