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RESIDENCE PERMIT • CYPRUS 2026

Cyprus Residence Permit & Permanent Residency 2026

Obtain a Cyprus Pink Slip, Residence Permit through Company Registration, or Permanent Residency by Investment. Full legal support for entrepreneurs, investors and families — from initial consultation to receiving your residence card.

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  • Cyprus Pink Slip
  • Company Residence Permit
  • Cyprus Permanent Residency
  • Family Relocation
Types of Permits

Types of Residence Permits in Cyprus

Cyprus offers several grounds for residency. The right option depends on your situation, budget and goals.

Pink Slip (Temporary Permit)

For residing in Cyprus without the right to work. Issued for up to 1 year with annual renewal options.

  • Timeline: from 2 weeks
  • Requirements: proof of income and address in Cyprus

Residence via Company

For business owners, directors and employees of a Cyprus company, including BCS companies authorised to hire specialists from non-EU countries.

  • Timeline: from 2 months
  • Requirements: company registration or employment by a Cyprus company

Permanent Residency via Investment

Permanent residency in Cyprus through investment in qualifying assets. Issued indefinitely — no annual renewal required.

  • Timeline: 2–4 months
  • Requirements: investment from €300,000

Family Relocation

For spouses, children and dependent family members of a Cyprus resident. Processed alongside the main applicant.

  • Timeline: with the main applicant
  • Requirements: proof of family ties and financial support

Digital Nomad Visa

For remote workers and freelancers with income from employers or clients based outside Cyprus.

  • Timeline: 2–3 months
  • Requirements: income from €3,500/month from abroad

Student Residence Permit

For students enrolled at Cyprus universities, colleges or language schools. Valid for the full duration of study.

  • Timeline: duration of studies
  • Requirements: enrolment at an accredited institution in Cyprus

Work Permit

For qualified professionals with a job offer from a Cyprus employer. IT, finance, healthcare and engineering.

  • Timeline: 1–3 months
  • Requirements: employment contract with a Cyprus company

Property Purchase

Residential or investment property in Cyprus for living, obtaining permanent residency or capital preservation.

  • Timeline: from 1 month
  • Requirements: property selection and legal due diligence
Comparison

Which option is right for you

Compare the key parameters of each route — cost, duration and suitable situations.

OptionInvestmentPermit durationProcessing timeBest for
Pink Slip—Up to 1 year (renewable)2–4 weeksNew arrivals, students, employees
Residence via CompanyCompany setup costs1–2 years (renewable)2–4 monthsEntrepreneurs, directors, owners
Permanent Residency via Investmentfrom €300,000Permanent ✓2–4 monthsInvestors, property buyers
Family RelocationDepends on the main permit typeTied to main permitProcessed together with the main applicantSpouses, children, dependants
Digital Nomad Visa—1 year (renewable)2–3 monthsRemote workers, freelancers
Student Residence Permit—Duration of studies1–2 monthsStudents at Cyprus institutions
Work Permit—1–2 years (renewable)1–3 monthsSkilled professionals with a Cyprus job offer
Property PurchaseDepends on propertyLinked to Permanent Residency (from €300,000)From 1 monthInvestors and property buyers in Cyprus

Not sure which option is right for you?

Every situation is different. We will help you choose the most suitable residence or permanent residency option in Cyprus based on your goals, budget and family circumstances.

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Jurisdiction comparison

Cyprus, Malta, UAE or Portugal: which fits your residency plans

Compare the key parameters of getting residency — and choose the country that fits you. Data current as of July 2026.

Criterion Cyprus Our pick Malta UAE Portugal
Residency threshold From €300,000Investment in real estate or qualifying assets From €375,000 (purchase) or €14,000/year (rent)Plus government contribution and admin fee — from €98,000 combined From AED 2,000,000 (~€510,000)Real estate, mortgage-financed property included From €500,000 (fund route) or from €200,000 (donation)Direct real-estate route for residency was discontinued in 2023
Schengen & EU entry Not yetCyprus is an EU member but not in Schengen; accession is targeted for 2026, with a decision expected by year-end ✓ YesFull Schengen member NoNot part of the EU or Schengen ✓ YesFull Schengen member
Personal taxation Non-dom — 17 yearsNo tax on dividends and interest for non-domiciled residents Non-dom (remittance basis)Foreign income taxed only if remitted to Malta; minimum tax €5,000/year if foreign income exceeds €35,000 0%No personal income tax Up to 53%The IFICI regime (NHR's 2025 replacement) applies only to tech/science/healthcare professionals, not passive investors
Residency status Permanent immediatelyPermanent Residency via investment — no intermediate temporary permit Permanent, once conditions are metRequires maintaining the investment and residence conditions 10-year renewable visaNot a permanent status or citizenship Renewable residence permitInvestment must be held for at least 5 years
Path to citizenship AvailableSubject to Cyprus naturalisation requirements Via naturalisationAdditional requirements beyond permanent residency Very limitedNaturalisation of foreign investors is essentially not practised 10 yearsTightened in May 2026 (previously 5 years; 7 years for EU/CPLP nationals)

Malta, UAE and Portugal figures are compiled from public sources as of July 2026 and are subject to change — confirm current terms with us during a consultation.

Permanent Residency

Permanent Residency in Cyprus via Investment

The permanent residency programme allows you to obtain indefinite residency in Cyprus with an investment of at least €300,000 in qualifying assets.

The permit is issued permanently and does not require annual renewal. If the legal requirements are met, applicants may become eligible for Cypriot citizenship in accordance with the applicable legislation.

Subject to the current requirements of the legislation of the Republic of Cyprus.

Investment
from €300,000
Processing time
Case-by-case
Family
spouse & children
Renewal
not required
  • Investment from €300,000 in real estate or securities
  • Confirmed annual income from abroad
  • Clean criminal record
  • Extends to spouse and dependent children
  • No obligation to reside in Cyprus permanently
  • Citizenship eligibility subject to legal requirements

Who this programme suits

  • Investors
  • Property buyers
  • Families
  • Entrepreneurs
Check if You Qualify for Permanent Residency

Steps to Permanent Residency

01

Consultation & Strategy

We assess your situation and select the right qualifying asset and investment structure

02

Document Preparation

Full package: financial documents, certificates, translations, apostilles

03

Document Submission

We submit documents to the Migration Department of Cyprus

04

Receive Permanent Residency Card

We accompany you through to permit approval and biometric registration

Residence for Entrepreneurs

Residence Permit Through Company Registration

A Cyprus company provides directors and business owners with a legal basis for obtaining a residence permit. This is one of the most popular options for entrepreneurs who want to operate a business and live in Cyprus at the same time.

We manage the entire process — from company incorporation to receiving your residency card.

Company registration
5–10 days
Permit application
after registration
Processing
2–4 months
Renewal
annually
  • Cyprus Ltd company registration in 5–10 working days
  • Tax registration and VAT
  • Document preparation for immigration department
  • Permit for owner, director and employees
  • Annual renewal while company remains active
  • Covers the whole family

Application Steps

Company Registration

We incorporate your Cyprus Ltd in 5–10 working days, including tax registration and VAT

Permit Application

Once the account is open, we prepare and submit the full document package

Application Review

2–4 months at the immigration department — we monitor your status

Receive Your Residence Permit Card

We accompany you to biometrics and card collection

Who this suits

  • Business owners
  • Online entrepreneurs
  • IT companies
  • International investors
Speak With an Expert

We respond within 15 minutes during business hours

Employment-Based Permit

Residence Permit Through
Employment in a BCS Company

Companies with BCS (Business Facilitation Unit) status are authorised to hire employees from countries outside the European Union.

Official employment at such a company entitles the employee to a work-based residence permit in Cyprus, and also allows them to obtain permits for their spouse and children.

Processing Time
1–3 months
Basis
employment contract with a BCS company
Renewal
for the duration of employment
Family
spouse and children
  • Legal right to work in Cyprus
  • Residence permits for the whole family
  • Potential path to Cypriot citizenship
  • Year-round residency on the island
  • Employment in an international company
  • Residence permit renewable for the duration of employment

Who this suits

  • IT Professionals
  • Marketing Specialists
  • Finance Professionals
  • Managers
  • Engineers
  • Employees of International Companies
Get a Consultation

We respond within 15 minutes during business hours

Citizenship Opportunity

Fast-Track Path to Cypriot Citizenship

✓ For Highly Qualified Professionals Working for BCS Companies

Highly qualified professionals employed by BCS companies may be eligible for accelerated naturalisation, subject to the requirements of Cyprus law.

A2

After 4 years of lawful residence

  • Confirmed Greek language proficiency at A2 level
  • Successful completion of the Cyprus knowledge examination
B1

After 3 years of lawful residence

  • Confirmed Greek language proficiency at B1 level
  • Successful completion of the Cyprus knowledge examination

Citizenship is not guaranteed. Residence permit and naturalisation requirements are subject to change. Conditions should be verified at the time of application.

Who this suits

  • IT Professionals
  • Marketing Specialists
  • Finance Professionals
  • Managers
  • Engineers
  • Employees of International Companies
Get a Consultation

We respond within 15 minutes during business hours

Documents

Documents for Cyprus Residence and Permanent Permits

All programmes require a standard base pack: a valid passport, medical insurance and a criminal record certificate with apostille. Below are the additional documents required for each programme. We assist with apostilles, notarisation, translations and submission.

Residence Permit Through a Cyprus Company

For entrepreneurs, directors and employees of a Cyprus company (Ltd). Documents confirm genuine business activity on the island.

  • Cyprus company incorporation documents
  • Tax Identification Certificate (TIC) and VAT registration
  • Office lease agreement in Cyprus
  • Company bank account statement
  • Employment contract for director
  • Evidence of business activity

Permanent Residency via Investment in Cyprus

For investors committing at least €300,000 to real estate or qualifying assets. Documents confirm the source of funds and the investment itself.

  • Purchase agreement / investment documents
  • Proof of payment from €300,000
  • Proof of Income for the Last 3 Years
  • Bank statement from international bank
  • Source of funds documentation
  • Marriage / birth certificates

Pink Slip — Temporary Residence Permit in Cyprus

For those relocating to Cyprus without the right to work for a local employer. Key requirements are proof of accommodation and financial independence.

  • Rental agreement for accommodation in Cyprus
  • Proof of financial means
  • Bank statement for last 3–6 months
  • Proof of income source

Family Relocation to Cyprus

For spouses, children and dependants of an existing Cyprus resident. Submitted together with the main applicant under any eligible residence programme.

  • Marriage certificate (apostille + translation)
  • Children's birth certificates
  • Criminal record certificates for all family members
  • Medical insurance for each family member
  • Proof of financial support by the main applicant

Not sure which documents you need?

Every situation is different. We will review your case free of charge and prepare a personalised document checklist based on your nationality, family status and chosen programme.

What Documents Do I Need?
Application Process

How We Help You Obtain a Cyprus Residence Permit

A transparent process with clear timelines at every stage.

01

Initial Assessment

We assess your situation, identify the best programme and outline a clear action plan.

1–2 days
02

Document Collection

We provide a full checklist and assist with apostilles, notarisation and translations.

2–4 weeks
03

Application Submission

We prepare and submit the complete package to the Cyprus Immigration Department.

1–3 days
04

Receive Your Residence Card

We monitor your application status and accompany you to biometrics and card collection.

2–4 months
Free initial consultation Documents reviewed before submission Full support until your card is issued
Why Cyprus

Why entrepreneurs choose Cyprus

Cyprus offers a unique combination of business environment, tax benefits and quality of life.

15% Corporate Tax

One of the most competitive corporate tax rates in the European Union (raised from 12.5% as of 1 January 2026). We handle bookkeeping and tax planning for resident companies — see our accounting and audit page.

Residence Permits for the Entire Family

Spouse, children and parents may be included in the application depending on the chosen programme.

Fast Company Registration

Fast company incorporation with the possibility to start your residence permit application immediately.

No Dividend Tax for Non-Residents

Favourable tax treatment for international entrepreneurs and investors.

Access to EU Markets

A Cyprus company can work with clients and partners across the entire European Union.

Cyprus Tax Residency

The 183-day and 60-day tax residency rules allow eligible individuals to become Cyprus tax residents.

Why ResidentPravo

Why Clients Trust ResidentPravo

Over 350 successful immigration and company registration cases in Cyprus.

01

Cyprus-Focused Specialists

100% focus on Cyprus — we know the current immigration requirements, application procedures and potential risks.

02

End-to-End Support

From the first consultation to receiving the residency card — one process, one team and one point of contact at every stage.

03

Transparent Process

We explain the stages, document list, timelines and costs upfront. No hidden fees or unexpected expenses.

04

Direct Communication

We respond directly via WhatsApp and Telegram. You always know the status of your case and the next step.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Cyprus offers several residency options: the Pink Slip (temporary residence permit for financially independent persons with confirmed foreign income), residency through Cyprus company registration (including the FIC — Foreign Interest Company — route), permanent residency through investment from €300,000 (Category F), family reunification, employment-based permits with a Cyprus employer, student visas, digital nomad permits and startup visas. Each programme has its own requirements, processing timeline and document checklist — from 2 weeks for the Pink Slip to 2–4 months for permanent residency through investment. The most suitable option depends on your nationality, family status, source of income and business goals: entrepreneurs typically choose the company-based route, investors choose permanent residency, and remote professionals choose the Pink Slip or digital nomad visa. During a free consultation we help you pick the route that fits your situation.
A residence permit is a temporary permission to live in Cyprus that must be renewed regularly. A company-based permit is renewed annually while the company remains active; the Pink Slip is renewed each year subject to proof of foreign income. Permanent residency (officially Category F) is an indefinite permit requiring no annual renewal and is not tied to keeping a company or an income source. Permanent residency through investment from €300,000 is the most popular route to long-term residency in Cyprus: the investment can be in real estate or other qualifying assets, and the status generally continues to apply even if the asset is later sold, subject to conditions. If the legal requirements are met, applicants may become eligible for Cypriot citizenship in accordance with the applicable legislation — usually after several years of continuous legal residency.
To obtain a residence permit through a Cyprus company, you must register a Cyprus Ltd, appoint a director, open a corporate bank account and demonstrate genuine business activity — the Immigration Department checks that the company is not a shell entity. The application is then submitted to the Cyprus Immigration Department together with a package of corporate and personal documents. Processing takes 2–4 months. The permit covers the director, owner and employees of the company, as well as their family members — spouse, children and in some cases parents. Companies with foreign investors and staff from third countries can also apply for FIC (Foreign Interest Company) status, which simplifies obtaining work permits for foreign employees. Company registration in Cyprus takes 5–10 working days, and we support the whole process, from incorporation through to receiving your residence card.
The standard document pack for all Cyprus residency programmes includes: a valid passport (at least 2 years of remaining validity), biometric photos in the required format, medical insurance, and a clean criminal record certificate with apostille issued no more than a few months before submission. For a company-based permit, you also need the company's incorporation documents, tax number (TIC), a bank statement confirming funding, and an employment contract stating the role and salary. For permanent residency through investment, a sale and purchase agreement for the asset and proof of payment from €300,000 are required, along with documents confirming the legal source of funds. All foreign documents require an apostille and a notarised translation into Greek or English. We assist with apostilles, translations and notarisation of every document to avoid rejection over formal errors in the file.
Processing times for a Cyprus residence permit depend on the programme. Pink Slip: 2 to 4 weeks from submitting a complete document package. A company-based residence permit takes longer: company registration itself is 5–10 working days, and the Immigration Department then takes a further 2–4 months to process the application. Permanent residency through investment is processed in 2–4 months after a complete package is submitted, including proof of the €300,000 investment. Document preparation — gathering certificates, apostilles, translations — typically takes another 2–4 weeks before submission, and can run in parallel with other steps to save time. We monitor every stage, flag missing documents early, and keep you informed of your application status throughout, to avoid delays caused by formal issues.
Costs vary by permit type. Pink Slip: government fees and document preparation typically cost €500 to €1,000. A company-based residence permit consists of two parts — the cost of company registration (from €1,300) plus a separate service fee for the immigration side. Permanent residency through investment is the most capital-intensive programme: a minimum investment of €300,000 plus government fees and legal support, which usually represent a small fraction of the investment amount. The total cost is also affected by your nationality, the number of family members on the application, and the complexity of your specific case — for example, an unusual income structure. Contact us for a free consultation and a personalised cost estimate based on your situation.
Yes. Most Cyprus residency programmes extend to the main applicant's entire family. Under the company-based permit, the director or owner receives the permit along with their spouse and minor children — the family members' status is tied to the main applicant's status. Permanent residency through investment also covers the spouse and dependent children, including adult children in full-time education. In some cases, the applicant's or spouse's parents may be included in the application if they are financially dependent. All family members submit the standard document pack: passports, marriage and birth certificates with apostilles, plus medical insurance. We clarify the family composition upfront and help gather documents for every member so the application is submitted as one package rather than spread across several filings.
Residence requirements vary by permit type. The Pink Slip and company-based permit do not require full-time residence, but proof of a genuine connection to the island — an active rental agreement, owned property, or periodic visits — is needed for renewal. Permanent residency through investment does not require full-time residence at all, which is one of its key advantages compared with similar programmes in other EU countries. Tax residency is a separate question: if you want to be taxed in Cyprus specifically (for example, to benefit from the favourable non-dom regime), you must meet either the 183-day rule or the more flexible 60-day rule, provided additional conditions are met (no tax residency elsewhere, and a business or employment in Cyprus). Holding a residence permit or permanent residency does not automatically make you a Cyprus tax resident — we advise on this separately.
Yes, a significant part of the Cyprus company registration process can be completed remotely. Incorporation documents, notarisation and apostilles are arranged via a power of attorney without any need to travel — you sign documents with a notary in your home country, and we act on your behalf in Cyprus. Opening a corporate bank account is the one step that requires a personal visit from at least one director at most Cyprus banks, for compliance purposes, though some EMIs (electronic money institutions) allow account opening without a visit. The residence permit application also requires in-person attendance for biometrics and, in some cases, for submitting the application itself. We explain upfront exactly what can be done remotely and what requires travel, and help you plan a single, efficient trip to Cyprus instead of several.
Validity depends on the permit type. The Pink Slip is issued for one year and renewed annually, subject to continued proof of foreign income. A company-based residence permit is also renewed annually, provided the company remains active — meaning the bank account, staff and genuine operations are maintained. Permanent residency through investment is indefinite and requires no regular renewal — this is its key advantage over the temporary permit types. If the basis for the permit ceases to exist, for example the company is dissolved or employment ends, the permit is cancelled and a new basis is required to remain legally resident. We track renewal deadlines for every client and notify you several months in advance so there's no gap in your resident status. Since 6 July 2026, some categories can be renewed through a new online service — see how it works →
Pink Slip is a temporary residence permit for financially independent persons with income from abroad. Category F is a separate permanent residence category — the two are often asked about together, but they're different programmes with different conditions. The Pink Slip does not permit employment by a Cyprus-based employer. However, a Pink Slip holder may be a director or shareholder of a Cyprus company, receive dividends, carry out entrepreneurial activities through a registered Cyprus company, and even hire staff — the restriction applies specifically to being employed by a third-party employer, not to running your own business. If you plan to work as an employee or actively run an operating business on the island in person, a company-based residence permit or a work permit is likely the more appropriate route — we help determine the right one during a consultation.
Most documents for a Cyprus residence permit can be prepared abroad: apostilles, notarised translations, criminal record certificates and medical documents can all be obtained in your home country. Some applications and corporate actions can be submitted via an authorised representative under power of attorney, so you don't need to travel to Cyprus for the early stages. Personal attendance is required for a few key steps: biometrics when collecting the residency card, opening a corporate or personal bank account, and in some cases submitting documents to the immigration department in person, depending on the specific programme. We explain upfront exactly which steps can be done remotely and which require a visit, and help you plan a single trip to Cyprus that covers every mandatory in-person step efficiently.
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