Cyprus is a place where thousands of expats have built new lives. The sun, the sea, and the slower pace of life make it the perfect escape. But what about figuring out how to actually stay here? Between visa rules, residency permits, and regulations, many of you must be getting lost in paperwork, unsure which path to take.
Well, let me make it clear: Cyprus once had a golden passport scheme where people could get a passport by investing €2 million. This brought in €1.4 billion every year, making up over 4% of Cyprus’ GDP between 2017 and 2019. That scheme is gone now, but other paths remain.
A Cyprus residency permit lets you stay for more than three months. Some people use it to work, study, or reunite with family. Others go straight for permanent residency through property investment.
This guide breaks it down so you know which path suits you best, whether you are exploring Cyprus residency permits or going for Cyprus citizenship as an expat.
What is a Cyprus Residency Permit?
If you’re planning to stay in Cyprus for more than 90 days, you have to obtain a residency permit. Unlike a visa, which only grants entry into the country, a residency permit allows you to legally reside in Cyprus for an extended period. To apply, you must first enter Cyprus legally and meet specific criteria based on your residency type.​
Types of Cyprus Residency Permits
There are two primary types of Cyprus residency permits:​
1. Temporary Residence Permit (Pink Slip) & Yellow Slip in Cyprus
Cyprus offers different types of residence permits depending on your nationality and the length or purpose of your stay.
Yellow Slip for EU/EEA Citizens
If you’re an EU or EEA citizen planning to live in Cyprus for more than 90 days, you must apply for the Yellow Slip (Registration Certificate). It allows you to legally reside, work, or access essential services in Cyprus without the need for visa renewals. Once issued, it doesn’t expire and is a key document for long-term stay.
The application process involves submitting proof of identity, address, employment (or sufficient funds), and health insurance. You can apply at the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) or your local immigration office. For a step-by-step walkthrough, check out our detailed Yellow Slip guide.
Temporary Residence Permit (Pink Slip) for Non-EU Citizens
Non-EU citizens who wish to extend their stay in Cyprus for reasons like work, study, or family reunification can apply for a Temporary Residence Permit, commonly known as the Pink Slip. It is typically valid for one year and renewable annually. However, be aware that leaving Cyprus for more than three consecutive months may result in cancellation.
As a Pink Slip holder, you’re generally not allowed to engage in full-time employment unless you also obtain a separate work permit.
Documents needed for the Temporary Residence Permit include:
- Rental agreement or proof of home ownership
- Valid health insurance
- Medical test results (TB, Hepatitis B & C, HIV/AIDS, and syphilis)
- Police clearance from your home country
2. Permanent Residence Permit (PRP):
If you plan to reside in Cyprus for long-term, Permanent Residence Permit is what you would need.
You can be eligible for a PRP through various means. One of which is by residing in Cyprus continuously for at least five years without leaving the country for more than three months during this period.
Another method is through investment, also known as the “fast-track” option. ​To be eligible for Cyprus’s Fast-Track Permanent Residency, you must fulfill all the specified criteria:​
- Property Investment: Purchase a new residential property in Cyprus valued at a minimum of €300,000 (excluding VAT). ​
- Source of Funds: Ensure that the investment funds originate from outside Cyprus.
- Bank Deposit: Deposit €30,000 into a Cypriot bank, which will be frozen for three years. ​
- Annual Income: Demonstrate an annual income of at least €30,000 earned outside Cyprus. ​
- Dependents: If including family members, show additional income of €5,000 per dependent child and €8,000 per dependent parent. ​
- Employment Restrictions: Note that while full-time employment in Cyprus is not permitted under this residency, you are allowed to invest or own a business. ​
People who use the fast-track method get a decision in 2 months.
I have one example to share, when one of my friends Mark and his wife first visited Cyprus, they only planned to stay for a year. But after falling in love with the island’s relaxed lifestyle, they decided to make it permanent. Instead of waiting five years, they opted for the fast-track residency by purchasing a small villa in Larnaca. Two months later, they were official permanent residents, enjoying beachside mornings without visa worries.
Both types of permits grant legal residency under Cyprus immigration laws, each with its own set of requirements and benefits. You can consult with immigration experts or legal advisors to figure out the most suitable option based on your circumstances.​
Work, Study, or Retire? Which Residency Path Fits You?
The right Cyprus residency permit depends on your life plans:
Working in Cyprus
If you want to work in Cyprus, the journey begins with securing employment from a Cypriot employer. Once a job offer is obtained, the next step involves applying for an entry visa specific to employment at the nearest Cypriot consulate or embassy in your home country. Upon arrival in Cyprus, you must apply for a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP), commonly known as the “Pink Slip,” which allows you to reside in Cyprus for the duration of your employment contract.​
Studying in Cyprus
If your goal is to pursue education in Cyprus, you need to get admission to a recognized Cypriot educational institution. With the acceptance letter, you can apply for a student visa in your home country, providing proof of admission and financial means to support your studies. After entering Cyprus, you need to obtain a Temporary Residence Permit (TRP) to cover the duration of your academic program.​
Retiring in Cyprus
You must show a stable annual income from abroad, such as pensions or investments, sufficient to support your lifestyle without employment in Cyprus. Applying for the Category F Permanent Residency Permit is ideal for retirees, requiring proof of adequate income and, in some cases, property ownership in Cyprus. ​
Alternative Residency Categories
Cyprus offers several immigration categories tailored to specific professional and personal circumstances:​
​Here’s a table summarizing the various categories of residency permits available in Cyprus:​
| Category | Description |
| A | For self-employed individuals in agriculture, animal husbandry, or fish farming with adequate land and capital. |
| B | For self-employed miners with the necessary licenses and capital. |
| C | For self-employed professionals in trade or business with required licenses and capital. |
| D | For self-employed individuals in science or research with suitable academic qualifications or experience. |
| E | For persons offered permanent employment in Cyprus that does not displace local labor. |
Each category has specific requirements and necessitates approval from the Immigration Control Committee.
Application Process for Cyprus Residency
To apply for a residency permit in Cyprus, you must submit your application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia or the District Immigration Unit in other districts. The application requires necessary documents, including:
- a valid passport
- proof of financial means
- health insurance
- medical test results
You will need to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and photographs. The approval process can take between 4 to 12 months, depending on the category under which you are applying.
Renewing a Cyprus Residency Permit
It’s important to renew your Cyprus residency permit before it expires. Temporary permits typically require annual renewal, while permanent permits are valid for five years and must be renewed before expiry. The renewal process involves submitting updated health insurance, proof of address, latest financial records, and, if required, a new police clearance. Applying at least one month before the permit’s expiration helps avoid any issues. ​
The Role of Residency in Cyprus’ Economy
Cyprus benefits from foreign residents.
- Every day, about 3.5 million people cross Schengen borders, and 1.7 million live in a country where they do not work
- In 2023, travel and tourism added €3.7 billion to Cyprus’ GDP, 5.7% more than in 2019
The rise in expat numbers shows that more people are choosing Cyprus residency permits for work, investment, and lifestyle.
Many also explore the Cyprus citizenship process as a long-term goal, seeking benefits such as visa-free travel and economic opportunities.
Wrap Up
If you plan to work, study, invest, or retire, Cyprus residency permits offer a legal path to long-term living. Many expats choose fast-track property investment, while others take the employment or study route.
Understanding how to get residency in Cyprus ensures a smoother transition, whether through investment or other means. Additionally, the Cyprus citizenship process provides a long-term goal for those looking to establish deeper roots in the country.
If you found this useful, share it with friends and family who may also want to move to Cyprus.
For more detailed guides on relocating, living, and working abroad, visit Expatify Guide.
FAQs
1. Can I get Cyprus citizenship after permanent residency?
Yes, but you must live in Cyprus for 7 out of 10 years. The last 12 months must be continuous before applying.
2. Can I work in Cyprus with a permanent residence permit?
Yes, PRP holders can work or start a business without extra approval.
3. Do I have to pay tax if I get Cyprus residency?
You must pay tax if you live in Cyprus for over 183 days a year, but the rates are low for expats.
4. How long does it take to get a Cyprus residency permit?
It takes 4 to 12 months for most applications. Fast-track investors get PRP in 2 months.
5. What happens if my residency permit application is rejected?
You will get a written reason. You can appeal or reapply with better documents.
