Cyprus Residence Permit

Cyprus Residence Permit – Complete Guide for 2025

A Cyprus residence permit is required for non-citizens planning to stay in the Republic of Cyprus for more than 90 days. Whether you’re relocating for work, education, retirement, or investment, Cyprus offers various types of permits to suit your needs.

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Types of Residence Permits in Cyprus

Cyprus issues both temporary and permanent residence permits depending on your nationality, purpose of stay, and intended duration.

Permit Type	Validity	Eligible Applicants
Temporary Residence Permit (Pink Slip)	1 year (renewable)	Non-EU citizens (students, workers, family members)
Registration Certificate (MEU1)	Indefinite	EU/EEA citizens living in Cyprus
Permanent Residence Permit (PRP / Category F)	Lifetime (with conditions)	Non-EU investors, retirees, and residents
Digital Nomad Visa	1–2 years	Remote workers from non-EU countries

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Who Needs a Cyprus Residence Permit?

You need a residence permit in Cyprus if you are:

• A non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizen staying longer than 90 days
• An EU citizen planning to live in Cyprus beyond 3 months
• A student, worker, family member, or digital nomad
• A retiree or property owner intending to settle in Cyprus

EU citizens register under a different regime but must still apply for a Certificate of Registration (MEU1).

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Temporary Residence Permit (Pink Slip)

This permit allows non-EU nationals to legally reside in Cyprus for more than 90 days without working (unless you apply under a work visa). Common categories include:

• Students at Cypriot institutions
• Spouses or dependents of legal residents
• Property owners (without income from work in Cyprus)
• Foreign retirees or visitors staying long-term

Requirements:

• Valid passport and entry visa
• Proof of accommodation (rental agreement or property deed)
• Bank account in Cyprus showing financial means
• Health insurance
• Application form + recent photos
• Fee payment receipt

Processing Time: 1–3 months
Renewal: Annually

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Permanent Residence Permit (Category F or Fast Track)

Cyprus offers a permanent residence option to non-EU nationals who meet certain investment or residency conditions.

Category F:

• Requires evidence of secure annual income (from pensions, investments, etc.)
• Must own or rent property in Cyprus
• Suitable for retirees and self-sufficient individuals
• Can take up to 12 months to process

Fast Track PR:

• Invest at least €300,000 in real estate, business, or financial assets
• Show stable income of €30,000+ per year, plus €5,000 per dependent
• Application processed in 2–3 months

The PRP grants lifetime residency but requires visiting Cyprus at least once every two years.

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Residence for EU/EEA Citizens – MEU1

EU/EEA/Swiss nationals planning to live in Cyprus must register with Civil Registry and Migration Department within 4 months of arrival.

Required documents:

• Valid ID or passport
• Proof of employment or study
• Proof of address in Cyprus
• Health insurance (if not working)

You will receive a yellow slip (MEU1), confirming your right to live and work in Cyprus.

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Digital Nomad Residence in Cyprus

Cyprus launched a Digital Nomad Visa allowing remote workers to live in Cyprus while working for foreign companies.

Eligibility:

• Non-EU/EEA nationals working remotely for an overseas company or clients
• Minimum income of €3,500/month (after tax)
• Valid health insurance and clean criminal record
• Can bring family members (not allowed to work locally)

Validity:

• 1 year, renewable for 2 years
• Renewable from within Cyprus

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How to Apply

Applications are submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department or via District Immigration Offices.

Steps:

1. Gather required documents
2. Book an appointment with Immigration
3. Submit the application and biometric data
4. Pay the applicable fee
5. Wait for decision and collect your residence card

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Fees (Approximate)

Service	Fee (EUR)
Temporary Residence Permit (Pink Slip)	€70–€140
Permanent Residence (Category F)	€500
Fast Track Permanent Residence	€500–€1,000
Digital Nomad Visa	€70–€100
MEU1 Certificate (EU Citizens)	€20

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Common Reasons for Rejection

• Missing or incorrect documentation
• Insufficient proof of income or accommodation
• Invalid or expired visa at the time of application
• Criminal record or security concerns

Applicants are advised to submit complete, clear, and legalized documents, translated into Greek or English as needed.

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Conclusion

A Cyprus residence permit offers legal access to one of the Mediterranean’s most attractive destinations for living, working, or retiring. With favorable tax laws, a high quality of life, and EU benefits, Cyprus remains a top choice for expats and investors. Whether applying for temporary, permanent, or digital nomad status, ensure your application is thorough and timely.

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Official Source:
Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department