Obtain Cyprus permanent residence through investment under Regulation 6(2). Fast-track processing within 1 year, with a minimum EUR 300,000 investment.
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The Republic of Cyprus offers a highly attractive fast-track permanent residence permit for third-country nationals who make a qualifying investment in Cyprus. This programme is governed by Regulation 6(2) of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations, which sets out the conditions, requirements, and procedures for granting an immigration permit on the basis of investment. The scheme has proven popular with non-EU nationals seeking a secure and efficient pathway to EU residency without the need for prolonged residence in Cyprus prior to obtaining the permit.
Regulation 6(2) operates under the umbrella of the Aliens and Immigration Law, Cap.105, and the Civil Registry Laws of 2002–2024. The regulation empowers the Minister of Interior to grant an immigration permit to third-country nationals who satisfy specific financial and personal criteria. The programme is administered by the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD), which reviews applications and issues permits upon approval.
Applicants must make an investment of at least €300,000 (plus VAT where applicable) in one of the following qualifying categories:
Applicants must provide documented proof that the investment funds have been transferred from abroad to Cyprus. The investment must be maintained for the duration of the permanent residence permit.
Applicants must satisfy the following personal criteria:
One of the most significant advantages of the programme is the ability to include family members in a single application. The following family members are eligible:
The application is submitted to the CRMD along with all supporting documentation and the relevant governmental fees. The fast-track process is designed to grant a decision within approximately six to eight months from the date of submission of a complete application. Following approval, the applicant will receive a letter inviting them and the dependent persons to attend the Migration Unit and submit biometrics. The residency cards will be received 2–4 months following submission of biometrics. The key steps are as follows:
| Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Fast Processing | Decision within approximately 6–8 months |
| No Residency Requirement | No obligation to reside in Cyprus; visit once every 2 years |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse and children are eligible |
| Lifetime Validity | Permit is valid for life, subject to maintaining the investment |
| EU Residency | Legal permanent residency in an EU member state |
| Path to Citizenship | Possible naturalisation after 8 years of actual residence |
Unlike many permanent residence programmes, the Cyprus investment-based permit does not require the holder to maintain continuous physical presence in Cyprus. However, the holder must visit Cyprus at least once every two years to maintain the validity of the permit. Failure to do so may result in the revocation of the permit.
The permit itself does not require periodic renewal as it is granted on a permanent basis. However, the biometric residence card must be renewed every ten years for administrative purposes, and the qualifying investment must be maintained throughout the holder's lifetime.
Applicants should note that the permanent residence permit does not confer the right to work in Cyprus, nor does it grant free movement rights to other EU member states. It is a national immigration permit specific to the Republic of Cyprus. Holders who wish to travel within the Schengen Area should be aware that Cyprus is not yet a member of the Schengen zone, and separate visa arrangements may apply depending on their nationality. Permanent residents who subsequently wish to acquire Cypriot citizenship must satisfy the separate naturalisation requirements.
Retain a qualified immigration lawyer in Cyprus to advise on eligibility and prepare your application.
Complete the qualifying investment of at least EUR 300,000 and obtain all supporting documentation.
Collect passports, criminal record certificates, marriage and birth certificates, proof of income, and health insurance.
Submit the completed application to the CRMD together with the application fee.
The CRMD reviews the application within 6 to 8 months and may request additional documents or clarifications.
Upon approval, the applicant and family members travel to Cyprus to provide biometric data at the Migration Unit.
Residency cards are received 2 to 4 months after biometrics. Applicants are considered holders once biometrics are submitted.
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“I was overwhelmed by the immigration process but Philippou Law made everything straightforward. My permanent residency was approved in under two months. Could not be happier.”
Sarah Mitchell
British Expat, Limassol
“Excellent service from start to finish. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and handled every detail of our family's residency application. We are now proud Cyprus residents.”
David Chen
Entrepreneur, Hong Kong
“Professional, efficient, and thorough. Philippou Law guided us through the entire investment residency process and kept us informed at every step. Highly recommend.”
Maria Petersen
Investor, Denmark
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