Cyprus Immigration Guide for Non-EU Citizens

Cyprus immigration from non-European Union nations is not only possible, but it’s also an excellent choice for your next home. With the help of a lawyer, you can purchase property and receive permanent residency. Leave the paperwork to the experts so that you can concentrate on enjoying your new home.

Investing in property in Cyprus is an excellent choice because of its location. Full of attractions, amenities, and rich culture, residents enjoy a high quality of life. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea, the sunny Republic of Cyprus provides citizens with breathtaking scenery and a relaxed lifestyle.

Cyprus Immigration and Property Investment

Real estate investors can obtain permanent residency in Cyprus upon meeting specific requirements. Once accepted, qualified non-EU citizens gain the legal right to enter and live in the country without restrictions.

Permanent residency by investment is granted to people with sufficient income. Ask a legal representative which category best suits your needs.

Permanent Residency Categories in Cyprus

Cyprus offers potential newcomers different types of permanent residency statuses to apply for. The following residency types reflect the welcoming nature of the region:

• Long-term residence permit
• EU citizens who have lived in Cyprus for five years
• Marriage to a citizen of Cyprus
• Property investors

Non-EU citizens looking to invest in property can select between two categories. Get a head start by making a more significant investment to acquire a category 6.2 residency permit. For those willing to wait longer, a smaller investment in Cyprus provides a category F residency.

Fast Track Property Investment for Non-EU Citizens

Get Cyprus immigration quickly with the category 6.2 fast-track permanent residency. Investors who meet the requirements are welcome to apply. Fast track permanent residency takes about two months to process and complete.

To qualify for category 6.2 residency, investors must:

• Purchase real estate valuing at least €300.000
• Have an annual income of €30.000
• Increase income requirement by €5.000 annually for each dependent
• For dependent parents and in-laws, add €8.000
• Register the real estate agreement with the land registry for €200.000 plus VAT
• Transfer €30.000 to a Cypriot based bank and pledge the sum for three years
• Prove they have a clean criminal record in the country of residence
• Demonstrate they’re not a threat to the security of Cyprus

The application procedure is reasonably laid out in easy to follow steps. Upon completion of the fast track permit’s successful attainment, investors can eventually become eligible for citizen status.

F Permit for Smaller Investments

While the F permit’s processing time is longer, the minimum investments for non-EU citizens are smaller.  The only necessary investment needed to qualify for the F permit is a bank deposit to a Cyprus bank account of €15.000 to €20.000.

While property investment isn’t necessary to qualify for the F class permanent residency, it’s highly recommended. To make it easier, funds for the real estate purchase don’t have to be from abroad. The differences between the 6.2 and F permits include:

• 6.2 considers dependent children as permanent residents even when they turn 25 years old
• F permit doesn’t allow parents and in-laws to apply as dependents
• Permit F only considers dependents until the age of 18
• The annual salary required for the F permit for one applicant drops to €9568
• Add a lower amount per dependent for the F permit — €4613

Expect a processing time of 18 months before you and your dependents can begin to enjoy Cyprus residency.

Types of Real Estate Investments in Cyprus

The majority of real estate activity takes place in the major urban centers in Cyprus, including:

• Nicosia: The capital city of Cyprus. It plays a role in business and the preservation of the region’s ancient history.
• Limassol: The second-largest city in Cyprus. Seaside living and cultural interests draw numerous foreign nationals.
• Larnaca: The third-largest city is famous for its beachside with palm trees and the Larnaca International Airport.
• Paphos: The city is UNESCO protected as it contains valuable historical relics and buildings of great importance. It has upper and lower regions.

Foreign Investors wanting permanent residency are welcome to purchase a maximum of two properties. Both properties must be bought from the same developer. It’s permitted to mix property types. Examples of allowable property include:

• Two houses
• Two apartments
• One house and one apartment
• One house and one shop
• One house or apartment and an office

It’s permissible to purchase properties that are under construction. A company name may invest in real estate as long as it’s registered in Cyprus; the applicant and their house must be listed as shareholders of the company.

Immigrate to Cyprus and Become a Cypriot in Seven Years

The permanent residency status in Cyprus never expires. After residing in Cyprus for seven years, permanent residents are eligible to apply for Cypriot citizenship. Foreigners can apply under the naturalization scheme based on years of residence.

Family members must apply for the type M127 citizenship individually. The application processing time is 12-24 months. A person must have resided in Cyprus continuously in the last year before applying.

Proof of an individual’s duration of stay in Cyprus must be provided. Preparation of the required passport documentation of entry and departure dates is required. Submission is subject to fees when an application is approved.

The Benefits of Living in Cyprus for Non-EU Citizens

Cyprus attracts foreign investors’ attention for many good reasons, including financial, high living standards, and location.

English Speaking Cypriots

Communication with Cypriots is easy since citizens can speak English sufficiently to receive all the services you need. Cyprus was a British colony, and the language remains taught in schools. It would be helpful to try to learn a little Greek as well.

Cyprus Ranks as the Fifth Safest Country in the World

Residents and visitors of Cyprus feel safe in their surroundings. Various news reports rank Cyprus as being one of the top five safest countries to live in worldwide. Nations rate according to the levels of:

• Natural disasters
• Epidemics
• Terrorism
• Violence
• Air quality
• Water quality
• The ratio of police to civilians
• Life expectancy

During the Covid-19 pandemic, Cyprus also ranks as one of the safest countries to live and travel to. Stringent measures helped flatten the curve, and businesses are operating as usual. It’s also another reason why professionals trust bringing their families to Cyprus.

Leisure, Rest, and Cultural Exploration in Cyprus

When non-EU citizens move to Cyprus, they enjoy all the benefits of living a Mediterranean lifestyle. The region offers a delicious combination of cuisine from Greek and Turkish influences. The land is fertile, and the country’s agriculture sector provides generous harvests of grapes for fine wines.

The diverse range of natural landscapes lets adventurers enjoy:

• Boating
• Hiking
• Cycling
• Scuba diving
• Water sports
• Horseback riding
• Cave exploration
• Road trips

Beaches, mountains, forests, and the abundance of wildlife provides excellent opportunities for memorable family outings.

Kato Paphos Archaeological Park — Ancient Ruins

Cyprus is home to famous landmarks, buildings, churches, and mythology. Travel among the ancient ruins and get a feel of what it was like for Cyprus’s early settlers. Popular sites from the UNESCO World Heritage site include:

• Tomb of the Kings: See intricate mosaic work and architectural mastery where aristocracy and other officials were laid to rest.
• Asklepieion: Visit the religious sanctuary that was a school of medicine and a tribute to Asclepius, the god of medicine.
• Ancient Odeon: A theater that dates back to the founding of the city. Partial restoration allows guests to view live performances.
• Saranta Kolones: Explore the ruins of a medieval Byzantine castle known as Forty Columns Castle.
• Christian Basilicas of Paphos: Early churches built in the Byzantine period have been excavated and preserved. Paphos is mentioned in the Bible, adding to the region’s allure.

Cyprus history was influenced by Greeks, Turks, Arabs, Romans, and modern culture. Immigration to Cyprus provides rewarding and life-enhancing experiences.

Get More Value With a Property Purchase in Cyprus

Compared to the rest of Europe, real estate is less expensive in Cyprus. Investors can get more with their money with special incentives offered by development companies. The most expensive properties exist in the resort neighborhoods.

Types of property for sale include:

• Apartments
• Town houses
• Detached houses
• Condos
• Penthouses
• Villas
• Office space
• Shops

Non-EU citizens must apply for permission to register the property in their name from the District Office of the City.

Family-Friendly Neighborhoods and Amenities

Cyprus provides the services necessary for families’ day-to-day life. Upon the approval of permanent residency, household members gain access to free health care. It’s permissible for an entire family to apply for a residence permit.

Expert Legal Help For Cyprus Immigration

Lawyers can help investors navigate the immigration process with ease and also help prepare the documents for application and give guidance to non-EU citizens seeking permanent residence. Talk with a Cyprus lawyer to learn how to begin your move to Cyprus.

 

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