RESIDENCY IN CYPRUS

Cyprus Residency in Cyprus Through Property Investment

Cyprus Golden Visa & Permanent Residency Guide for Buyers

Introduction

Cyprus offers established immigration pathways for non-EU nationals seeking to obtain permanent residency through property investment or independent financial means.

The two main routes are:

• Cyprus Fast Track Permanent Residency Programme (Regulation 6(2)), commonly referred to in the property market as the Cyprus Golden Visa
• Category F Permanent Residency, based on independent financial means

Both routes provide clear legal frameworks for obtaining permanent residency in Cyprus, depending on the applicant’s financial profile and long-term plans.

Cyprus Golden Visa – Fast Track Permanent Residency (Category 6(2))

The term “Cyprus Golden Visa” is commonly used in the international property market to describe the Cyprus Fast Track Permanent Residency Programme under Regulation 6(2).

While “Golden Visa” is not the official government term, it is widely recognised by investors and refers to the residency-by-investment route that allows non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residency in Cyprus through qualifying investments.

Applicants under this scheme must invest at least €300,000 (plus VAT where applicable) in approved assets.

Cyprus Golden Visa Investment Options

(A) Residential Property Investment

Purchase of a new residential property from a development company with a minimum value of:

• €300,000 + VAT

(B) Commercial Real Estate Investment

Purchase of commercial property such as:

• Offices
• Shops
• Hotels
• Mixed-use developments

Minimum investment: €300,000
(Resale properties may also qualify depending on structure)

(C) Investment in a Cyprus Company

Investment of:

• €300,000 in a Cyprus-registered company with active operations

The company must have:

• Physical presence in Cyprus
• At least 5 employees

(D) Investment in Cyprus Investment Funds

Investment of:

• €300,000 in approved investment organisations (AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF)

Income Requirements – Cyprus Golden Visa

Applicants must demonstrate a secure annual income of at least:

• €50,000 (main applicant)
• +€15,000 (spouse)
• +€10,000 (each dependent child)

Income may come from overseas or, in some cases, Cyprus-related sources depending on investment category.

Applicants must also provide evidence of suitable accommodation in Cyprus.

Key Features of the Fast Track Programme

• Processing time: approximately 3–5 months
• Permanent residency granted subject to approval
• Includes spouse and dependent children
• Children aged 18–25 may be included if financially dependent and studying
• Lifetime residency status, provided Cyprus is visited at least once every two years

Important restriction:

• Holders cannot work in Cyprus as employees
• They may own and manage Cyprus companies under specific conditions

Category F Permanent Residency in Cyprus

Category F is a residency route based on independent financial means, not a fixed investment requirement.

It is generally suitable for individuals wishing to reside in Cyprus without employment.

Eligibility Criteria – Category F

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Stable annual income from abroad
• Sufficient financial resources or savings

Property Purchase in Cyprus (Category F)

There is no minimum property value requirement under Category F.

Applicants may purchase:

• Apartments
• Houses
• Villas
• Resale or new-build properties

Resale properties are not subject to VAT.

Processing Time and Conditions

• Processing time: approximately 12–24 months
• Applicants are not permitted to work in Cyprus
• Residency is valid for life, subject to renewal conditions
• Cyprus visit required at least once every two years

Property Purchase Costs in Cyprus (Transfer Fees & Taxes)

When purchasing property in Cyprus, buyers should also consider additional acquisition costs.

Transfer Fees (Land Registry)

Transfer fees are payable upon transfer of the Title Deed and are calculated on the purchase price:

• €0 – €85,000 → 3%
• €85,001 – €170,000 → 5%
• Over €170,000 → 8%

These fees are payable to the Cyprus Land Registry upon completion of ownership transfer.

Current Incentive

Cyprus has applied a 50% reduction on property transfer fees, significantly reducing the overall cost of purchase. This is subject to government policy and may change.

Other Common Costs

Depending on the property type, additional costs may include:

• VAT (generally 5% or 19% on new-build properties, depending on eligibility)
• Legal fees
• Stamp duty
• Registration fees

Benefits of Cyprus Residency by Investment

Cyprus continues to be a preferred destination for international buyers due to:

• Established EU-aligned legal framework
• Strong property investment market
• High quality of life and climate
• Family inclusion options
• Straightforward residency procedures
• Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East

Both residency routes offer long-term stability for individuals and families seeking relocation or second residency in Cyprus.

*This guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or immigration advice.

Applicants should seek independent legal advice before proceeding with any property purchase or residency application.