What is a Pink Slip in Cyprus?
The Pink Slip in Cyprus is a temporary residence permit that allows non-European Union nationals to extend their stay in Cyprus beyond the standard 90-day visa period. It is valid for one year, it can be renewed annually. Under this permit, holders can live in Cyprus as visitors but cannot work. Additionally, holders must not continuously stay outside of Cyprus for more than three months, or the permit will be automatically cancelled.
Temporary Residence Permit Categories in Cyprus
1. Visitor Visa:
For spouses, parents-in-law, and underage children of Cypriot citizens.
For third-country nationals and dependents with sufficient funds.
For those with temporary entry permits from consulates abroad.
2. Student Visa:
For non-EU students enrolled in long-term courses at Cyprus institutions.
Issued by Cypriot embassies or the Migration Department.
3. Employment Visa:
For third-country nationals employed by Cypriot companies.
Requires employer submission and Department of Labor certification.
Valid up to four years, with specific exemptions.
Benefits of the Pink Slip in Cyprus:
Temporary Residency: Provides residency in Cyprus for more than 3 months, typically valid for 1 year and renewable for up to 4 years. This is commonly referred to as the Cyprus temporary residence permit or Pink Slip.
Family Inclusion: The main applicant’s spouse and children under 18 can also obtain residency permits.
Extended Stay: Allows tourists and visitors to extend their stay regardless of the initial visa duration.
Pending Applications: Allows individuals to live in Cyprus while awaiting permanent residency approval.
Path to Citizenship: After 8 years of residing in Cyprus, a temporary permit holder can apply for citizenship.
Limitations of the Pink Slip in Cyprus:
Employment Restrictions: Holders cannot work in Cyprus, though unpaid directorships may be allowed.
Continuous Stay: Leaving Cyprus for over 3 months can lead to automatic cancellation of the permit.
Non-EU Nationals Only: Granted only to non-EU nationals who wish to extend their stay in Cyprus.
Financial Criteria for Cyprus Temporary Residence Permit:
Stable Income Requirement: Bank Statement
A minimum of €2,000/month (€24,000/year) from abroad should be transferred annually to a Cyprus account. This income must be stable and can originate from employment salaries, pensions, bank deposits, etc.
+20% (€4,800) for a spouse
+15% (€3,600) per dependent minor.
Other Requirements:
Adequate income from abroad.
Rent (for at least 1 year) or purchase property in Cyprus. Ensure that the rental agreement is certified and stamped by the relevant authorities to be acceptable when submitting the residency application.
Set up a bank guarantee in a Cyprus bank (one for each family member). The amount varies from 350 euros to 850 euros and depends on the applicant’s and family members’ nationality.
Additional subsidiary requirements apply.
How to Submit a Cyprus Pink Slip Application (bank account and documents)
Book an Appointment: Schedule with the Immigration City Unit before your visa expires.
Select Property: Choose a qualifying rental or purchase property.
Open a Bank Account:
Transfer funds from abroad.Prepare Documents: Collect and translate documents into English or Greek; ensure they are duly certified and translated, either by the foreign affairs ministry of the issuing country or by the Cyprus Embassy.
Attend Appointment: Submit your application at the Immigration Unit.
Pay Fees: Cover the application fees.
Biometric Data: Provide photographs and fingerprints.
Application Processing: The Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Nicosia reviews your application, which typically takes around six months to approve. During this period, you may stay in Cyprus. Upon approval, a temporary residence permit card is issued.
Necessary Documents for the Applicants Applying Both for the First time for the Cyprus Pink Slip and its Renewal:
Application Form: Completed MVIS6 form for each family member. Each family member, including spouses and children, is required to submit a separate application form.
Rental or Sale Agreement: Certified by Muhtar or a certifying officer and stamped at the tax office.
Bank Statement & Proof of Transfer: Transfer €24,000 from abroad to a Cyprus bank account (this amount is increased by 20% for the spouse and 15% for each child).
Bank Guarantee
Health Insurance: International or local.
Proof of Income: Documents to prove the income from abroad.
Passport Copy
Marriage and Birth Certificates (if applicable)
School Enrolment Confirmation For the Children (if applicable)
Additional Documents for First-Time Cyprus Pink Slip Applicants:
Criminal Record:
Original criminal record certificates are legalized with an Apostille Stamp and translated into English from your country of residence. The certificate must be no older than six months.
Medical Examination:
The original medical examination certificate, including blood tests and a chest X-ray, was conducted in Cyprus before submitting the residency application. Our team can help arrange an appointment with a clinic or laboratory for this examination.
Cyprus Pink Slip Approval Time:
The approval time for a Cyprus Pink Slip (Temporary Residence Permit) varies but generally takes several months. However, applicants are permitted to stay in Cyprus during this period. Once approved, a temporary residence permit card is issued.
Here are the key points regarding the approval process:
Processing Time:
• The typical approval process takes approximately 6 months.
• Some sources indicate it can be obtained within about 3 months.
• In some cases, it may take up to 6-8 months.
Interim Period:
During the processing time:
• Applicants can stay in Cyprus while their application is being reviewed.
• This allows individuals to remain legally in the country even if their initial visa expires during the application process.
Application Review time:
• The Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Nicosia reviews the applications.
• Applicants will be contacted within the processing period if their application is approved or if additional information is needed.
Porst-Approval time:
• Once approved, a temporary residence permit card is issued to the applicant.
• The Immigration Office will inform the applicant when they can receive their residence card.
It’s important to note that while the processing time can be lengthy, applicants should remain patient and be prepared to provide any additional information or evidence requested by the authorities to ensure a smooth approval process.
How can Polycarpos Philippou & Associates LLC help?
Moving to Cyprus involves navigating complex residency permit options, securing immigration appointments, and preparing documents accurately to avoid rejection. Our immigration lawyers in Paphos streamline this process, ensuring a smooth transition.
Services Offered:
Simplify immigration appointments
Review and prepare documentation
Assist with bank account setup
Accompany you to immigration authorities
We offer a fixed-fee service, providing clear cost transparency and step-by-step guidance.
