Options of becoming a citizen of Cyprus

Individuals seeking citizenship in Cyprus have many options. Investment-based programs, such as the Cyprus Investment Program, and citizenship via long-term residence are among these choices. Each path has its own set of criteria and perks, making Cyprus an appealing option for people seeking Cypriot citizenship.

By descent

Any individual of Cypriot descent can obtain citizenship. Those born in Cyprus or with a Cypriot parent automatically gain citizenship by birth. If your father was a citizen of Cyprus at the time of your birth abroad after August 16, 1960, you are qualified to get a consular birth certificate. You may also apply if your mother was a citizen of Cyprus when you were born after June 11, 1999. Cyprus was under British rule before August 16, 1960, and its population held British citizenship. Those who were born before the deadline and have a male ancestor from Cyprus may now apply for a Cypriot passport. A male Cypriot ancestor who was born before August 16, 1960, and wishes to get a consular birth certificate may also do so. Individuals born on or after August 16, 1960, are eligible to apply, even if neither of their parents were Cypriot citizens at the time of their birth but later acquired citizenship. The necessary documents for the application include:

applicant’s passport;
applicant’s mother, father, or both passports;
the applicant’s parents’ marriage certificate (if applicable);
the Cypriot parent’s registration certificate (if applicable);
payment receipt.

By marriage

A foreign spouse of a Cypriot citizen may get citizenship via marriage. The candidate must have been married for three years and have lived in Cyprus for two years before the date of application. A mate of a Cypriot living abroad may likewise make an application. In this situation, the pair must have been married for at least three years and submit a letter explaining why the foreign spouse needs Cypriot citizenship. A couple residing overseas for a minimum of five years, who also have a child, are not obligated to explain their citizenship application. There is a €300 application fee. The following documents are required:

the applicant’s birth certificate;
a certificate of clean criminal record;
a marriage certificate;
couple’s children’s birth certificates, if any;
applicant’s passport;
Cypriot spouse’s passport;
a harmonious cohabitation statement, signed before a District Administration Office or diplomatic authority officer;
a copy of the local authority’s statement of cohabitation;
payment receipt.

By naturalization

Naturalization applications for foreigners who spent the bulk of the previous seven years living in Cyprus are admissible. Additionally, before applying, they had to have lived legally and continuously in the nation for at least a year. There is a €500 application fee. Documents required:

a birth certificate;
a certificate of clean criminal record;
a marriage certificate (if any);
copies of all pages of the applicant’s passports showing arrivals and departures in Cyprus;
a detailed statement of arrivals and departures;
copies of press articles announcing the applicant’s desire to become a citizen of Cyprus;
two passport-size photos;
payment receipt.

Citizenship by investment

The Cyprus citizenship by investment program expired on November 1, 2020. Since then, it has been impossible to become a citizen of Cyprus through investing in the country’s economy. Wealthy individuals can achieve permanent residency in the country through avenues like real estate investment. This path may eventually lead to citizenship. Unlike temporary residence permits, permanent residence permits do not require renewal. However, to maintain this status, individuals must visit the island every two years. You are eligible for Cyprus citizenship after 5 years of permanent residency; thus, you may apply.

Conditions for obtaining Cyprus residence via investment

To be eligible for permanent residence in Cyprus, the investor must meet various requirements:

be over the age of 18;
have no criminal records or prosecutions;
have no restrictions or bans on entry to the EU or the United Kingdom;
are not under sanctions;
have impeccable personal and business reputations;
have a legal income of at least €50,000 per year for the main applicant;
own or rent real estate in Cyprus;
possess a medical history and health insurance.

The investor might also include close relatives in the application. This applies to both spouses or partners and children. Spouses and minor children under 18 have no specific requirements. However, children under 25 must be enrolled in university, unmarried, and financially dependent on the investor to be eligible. Children who are physically or intellectually challenged might be of any age.

Immigration & Residency