Conditions and Benefits of Obtaining Cypriot Citizenship
Obtaining Cypriot citizenship offers vast opportunities and ranks 14th in the global Henley Passport Index for freedom of travel. A Cypriot passport provides access to a range of advantages, making it one of the most attractive in Europe. Passport holders can not only live in Cyprus but also in any other EU country, travel freely across Europe, study and work, and access social benefits.
In this article, we will explore the key conditions for obtaining Cypriot citizenship and the benefits it offers.
Benefits of Cypriot Citizenship for Foreigners
✅ Freedom of Movement
A Cypriot passport gives you the freedom to choose your place of residence—whether in Cyprus or any other EU country. Holders can also travel freely to 181 countries, including 138 visa-free countries, 34 countries offering visas on arrival, and 6 countries where electronic travel authorization is available.
✅ High standard of living
Cyprus provides a high standard of living thanks to its economic stability, which grants significant social benefits to its citizens. The country’s developed infrastructure, healthcare system, and high-quality educational institutions create a comfortable environment for living.
✅ Future for children
Cypriot citizens can pass on European citizenship to their children from birth. This ensures access to high-quality education and the freedom to live, study, and work in any EU country.
✅ Dual citizenship
Cyprus allows dual citizenship, which means you can retain your original citizenship. Having a second Cypriot passport not only gives you more options but also offers flexibility in managing your status and assets. In a globalized world, dual citizenship becomes a valuable tool, opening new opportunities for business and work.
✅ Tax benefits
Cyprus offers a favorable tax system for individuals and businesses, with lower rates compared to other EU countries. For example, individuals pay income tax on a progressive scale from 0% to 35%, whereas in countries like France, the rate can reach 45%, and in Portugal up to 48%.
✅ Social security and European pension
Cypriot citizens are entitled to social benefits, including free healthcare and a European pension.
Ways to Obtain Cypriot Citizenship
According to information provided on the official website of the Civil Registry and Migration Department of the Ministry of Interior of Cyprus, it is possible to acquire Cypriot citizenship and a passport through several routes, including descent, marriage, and naturalization. The procedures vary depending on the grounds for obtaining citizenship, and there are also expedited programs available for highly qualified professionals.
1. Cypriot Citizenship by Descent
Individuals born abroad after August 16, 1960, are eligible for Cypriot citizenship if their father was a Cypriot citizen at the time of their birth. Additionally, those born after June 11, 1999, may claim citizenship if their mother was a Cypriot citizen at the time of their birth. In both cases, applicants must provide documents proving parentage and citizenship at the time of the child’s birth.
2. Cypriot Citizenship through Marriage
Spouses of Cypriot citizens who have been married for 3 years and have lived in Cyprus for 2 years prior to the application date can obtain citizenship through marriage. Foreign spouses of Cypriot citizens who have been married for 3 years and reside abroad may also apply, provided they submit an explanatory letter outlining valid reasons for requesting citizenship.
3. Cypriot Citizenship through Naturalization
Obtaining a second Cypriot citizenship through naturalization depends on the length of residence on the island. Naturalization is possible after 4-8 years of living in Cyprus, depending on the applicant’s category and residency status. For highly qualified professionals, the period is reduced to 4-5 years, provided they have a B1 level of Greek language proficiency.
How to Obtain Cypriot Citizenship through Naturalization
To obtain citizenship through naturalization, an individual must first acquire a residence permit (temporary or permanent) and, after a certain period of residence, submit an application for citizenship.
General Residence Requirement – 8 years: This applies to most foreigners residing in Cyprus with a residence permit. Applicants must have legally resided in Cyprus for 7 out of the last 10 years before applying, plus 12 consecutive months immediately prior to the application.
Special Conditions for Highly Qualified Professionals – 4-5 years: Highly qualified foreign professionals working in Cypriot companies, with confirmed B1-level Greek language skills, may apply for citizenship after 4-5 years of residence.
General Requirements for Naturalization
As of December 19, 2023, amendments to the Population Registry Law (Law 141(I)/2002) require individuals applying for Cypriot citizenship through naturalization to meet the following criteria:
The applicant must have continuously resided in Cyprus for 12 months prior to the application (with a maximum absence of 90 days), in addition to 7 years of legal residence within the last 10 years (total 8 years).
Knowledge of the Greek language at the B1 level. Foreigners who hold a high school diploma or a degree from a program where Greek was the primary language of instruction are exempt from this requirement.
Knowledge of Cypriot history and culture, demonstrated by passing an exam on key aspects of Cyprus’s modern political and social realities, with a score of 60% or higher, conducted by the Ministry of Education’s Examination Service.
Proof of housing (ownership title, purchase agreement, lease agreement with rent receipts, and utility bills).
A stable and sustainable income source, demonstrated by salary slips, employment contracts, social security contributions, bank statements, or other legal income proof.
Clean criminal record, with no administrative fines or ongoing legal proceedings.
Processing Time for Citizenship Application
The processing time for Cypriot citizenship applications is approximately 2 years. This period includes verification of all submitted documents and information, as well as the necessary procedures to confirm the applicant’s eligibility.
Under the new citizenship law, applications from highly qualified foreign professionals applying through the expedited program after 4-5 years of residence in Cyprus can be processed within 8 months through the Fast Track application, with a state fee of €5,000.
The standard processing fee is €500.
Dual Citizenship in Cyprus
Cyprus allows dual citizenship, which is a significant advantage. The country’s legislation does not require foreigners obtaining Cypriot citizenship to renounce their original citizenship. Likewise, Cypriot citizens acquiring citizenship in another country are not required to give up their Cypriot citizenship.
Feod Group offers a full range of legal services related to obtaining citizenship and residency in Cyprus. Contact us for consultation!
Obtaining Cypriot Citizenship for Highly Qualified Professionals - Golden Knowledge Programme
In June 2023, a bill was introduced to the Cypriot Parliament to streamline the process for granting Cypriot citizenship. On December 19, 2023, these amendments were officially published and came into effect.
This new process is aimed at IT specialists and other highly paid employees from non-EU countries who work in Cypriot companies or foreign-interest firms based in Cyprus. Under the new law, third-country nationals now have the opportunity to obtain Cypriot citizenship within 4-5 years, depending on their proficiency in the Greek language. Highly qualified professionals must provide proof of their professional qualifications and income that meets established criteria.
This law allows many employees and their families to acquire European citizenship in a few years, making Cyprus a highly attractive destination for those seeking an EU passport.
Key Conditions for Fast-Track Cypriot Citizenship
1. Residence Duration and Language Proficiency
Foreign workers are eligible to apply for a Cypriot passport after 5 years of residency on the island with Greek language proficiency at the A2 level, or after 4 years if their proficiency reaches the B1 level. These same privileges are extended to their family members. In late May 2024, amendments were made allowing highly qualified foreign workers to forgo language certificates if they have a high school diploma or university degree where the language of instruction was Greek.
2. Minimum Salary
The applicant must have a minimum salary of at least €2,500 per month (supported by pay slips, employment contracts, or income tax documents). This ensures financial stability and confirms the applicant’s ability to support themselves and their family in Cyprus.
3. Suitable Housing
The applicant must have suitable housing in Cyprus, either owned or rented.
4. Academic and Professional Qualifications
Applicants must have a diploma or equivalent qualification, or proof of at least 2 years of work experience in a relevant position.
5. General Naturalization Requirements
In addition to the above conditions, applicants must meet other general naturalization requirements in Cyprus, such as a clean criminal record and tax compliance.
Family members of individuals eligible for Cypriot citizenship can also apply, provided each family member meets the relevant legislative requirements.
Cypriot Citizenship through Investment: What You Need to Know
Previously, Cyprus offered a citizenship-by-investment program that granted citizenship in as little as six months. While direct citizenship by investment is no longer available, the permanent residency (PR) program through investment remains active.
By investing at least €300,000 in real estate, business, or funds, you can obtain PR, with the option for naturalization in the future.
The Cyprus Investment PR Programme offers several advantages:
Permanent Residency without Renewal: Unlike other EU investment programs, Cyprus grants permanent residency immediately (with the first resident card valid for 10 years), significantly simplifying the process and providing stability for investors.
Pathway to Citizenship through Naturalization: With PR, you have a future route to citizenship, provided residency requirements are met.
If you have any questions or need advice on the process of obtaining Cypriot citizenship, contact the experts at Feod Group. We provide full legal support at all stages. Feel free to visit us at our office in Larnaca!
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Cyprus Citizenship - FAQ
How can I obtain Cypriot citizenship?
You can obtain Cypriot citizenship by descent, marriage to a Cypriot citizen, or through naturalization after 4-8 years of residence.
What are the benefits of Cypriot citizenship?
Becoming a Cypriot citizen also grants you EU citizenship, which includes:
Freedom to travel across EU countries.
The right to live, work, and study in any EU country.
The right to vote and participate in local and European Parliament elections.
The right to consular assistance from any EU embassy or consulate outside the EU on the same terms as a citizen of that country.
Social guarantees and a high quality of life.
How long do I need to live in Cyprus to get a passport?
Foreign nationals need to live in Cyprus for at least 8 years to apply for citizenship. However, there are fast-track options for certain categories. Highly qualified professionals can apply for naturalization after 4-5 years of residence.
Can I have dual citizenship in Cyprus?
Yes, Cyprus allows dual citizenship, and you do not need to renounce your original nationality.
What documents are needed to apply for Cypriot citizenship?
Required documents include:
Citizenship application form.
Applicant’s birth certificate.
Marriage/divorce certificate.
Police clearance certificate (original).
Valid residence permit in Cyprus.
Proof of residency in Cyprus.
Proof of financial stability.
Receipt of application fee payment.
Additional documents may be required depending on the grounds for citizenship. All foreign-issued documents must be officially translated into Greek or English and certified.
How long does the Cypriot citizenship process take?
The process typically takes around 1-2 years, including document review and procedural steps. For highly qualified professionals, the fast-track program processes applications within eight months under the new law.
Can I get Cypriot citizenship by purchasing real estate?
Direct real estate purchases do not grant citizenship, but the “Golden Visa” program allows you to obtain permanent residency (PR) by investing from €300,000 in residential or commercial property. This provides a path to Cypriot citizenship through naturalization.
Article author
Luhina Iryna Head of department Visas and Immigration Ukraine
In 2006 graduated from the National Aviation University (NAU), Kiev with a degree in Philology, Translation. Irina Lugina has many years of successful work experience in large companies with a voluminous workflow. Within Feod Group specializes in: visa support by category for financially ...
In 2006 graduated from the National Aviation University (NAU), Kiev with a degree in Philology, Translation. Irina Lugina has many years of successful work experience in large companies with a voluminous workflow. Within Feod Group specializes in:
visa support by category for financially independent foreigners, visas for entrepreneurs and investors in the EU, Great Britain and the USA.
preparation and compliance of packages of documents for registration of companies in low-tax jurisdictions, opening bank accounts.
obtaining a residence permit and permanent residence in Ukraine on the basis of marriage and through company registration.
Since 1992, Feod Group has been providing a wide range of legal, business and immigration services in Europe, the USA and other countries of the world.
The company has accredited western lawyers, experts in various fields of law and jurisdictions of the world.
Having offices in Europe and the USA, Feod Group provides rapid paperwork and maximum customer comfort.
We provide our clients with related services, such as relocation and adaptation abroad, organizing family relocation abroad, enrollment of children in schools and many other services.
