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Cyprus Golden Visa - Permanent Residency by Investment Program 2026
A Complete Guide
Minimum: EUR 300,000 +
Processing Time: 6 - 9 months
Return to Golden Visa (Residency by Investment) Countries 2026
Introduction
The Cyprus Golden Visa program is a premier pathway to obtaining Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment, making it an attractive option for non-European Union (EU) nationals seeking a second residency in Europe. This initiative provides a straightforward, fast-track process for individuals and families looking to invest in Cyprus Real Estate Investment, Cyprus Business Investment, or Cyprus Investment Fund Investment. With its strategic location, favourable tax regime, and high quality of life, Cyprus remains a top choice for investors worldwide.
The Cyprus Residency by Investment (RBI) scheme allows applicants to secure a stable future in an economically progressive and tax-friendly environment. With no requirement for continuous physical residency, investors can enjoy the benefits of Cyprus PR by Investment while maintaining flexibility in their global lifestyle. The country’s robust legal framework, based on English common law, ensures security and transparency in business transactions, further reinforcing Cyprus as a preferred destination for high-net-worth individuals.
Country Profile
Cyprus, an EU member state, is located in the Eastern Mediterranean and is known for its political stability, business-friendly environment, and English-based legal system. The country offers a high standard of living, excellent healthcare, and top-tier education. With its competitive Cyprus tax policies, including exemptions on foreign income and no inheritance tax, Cyprus has become an attractive destination for investors.
Cyprus enjoys a strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, making it an ideal hub for business and trade. The island’s modern infrastructure, growing fintech and tech ecosystem, and well-developed financial sector further contribute to its appeal. Additionally, Cyprus offers an exceptional climate, with over 300 days of sunshine per year, and a diverse cultural scene that includes historical sites, luxury lifestyle offerings, and Mediterranean cuisine.
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Official Name: Republic of Cyprus
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Capital: Nicosia
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Population: Approximately 1.2 million (as of recent estimates)
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Area: 9,251 square kilometres (3,572 sq. mi)
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Location: An island nation in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey and west of Syria.
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Currency: Euro (EUR)
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Official Languages: Greek, Turkish
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Spoken Languages: Greek (predominantly), Turkish, English
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Time Zone: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC +2; Daylight Saving Time: UTC +3
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Driving Side: Left
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Climate: Subtropical Mediterranean climate with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers. Average temperatures range from 55°F (13°C) in January to 86°F (30°C) in August.
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Government: Presidential republic
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Major Industries: Tourism, financial services, shipping, real estate
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Main Exports: Citrus fruits, potatoes, pharmaceuticals, cement
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Famous For: Ancient ruins like Kourion, Aphrodite’s Rock, beautiful beaches
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Motto: None officially adopted
Financial Requirements
To qualify for the Cyprus Residency by Investment (RBI) program, applicants must invest at least €300,000 (plus VAT) in one of the following categories:
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Cyprus Real Estate Investment (Residential): Purchase brand-new residential properties from a developer.
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Cyprus Property Investment (Commercial): Invest in commercial properties (new or existing) such as offices, hotels, or shops.
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Cyprus Business Investment: Investment in a Cyprus-registered company employing at least five people.
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Cyprus Investment Fund Investment: Placement in regulated investment funds approved by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).
Additionally, applicants must demonstrate a secure annual income of at least €50,000, increasing by €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child. This income should originate from abroad and can include salaries, pensions, dividends, or rental income.
Investors who choose Cyprus Real Estate Investment enjoy access to a growing property market with high rental yields and strong appreciation potential. The Cyprus Business Investment pathway enables entrepreneurs to establish or expand companies in a tax-efficient jurisdiction, leveraging the country's extensive double-tax treaty network. Those opting for Cyprus Investment Fund Investment benefit from a well-regulated financial environment, with numerous opportunities for wealth growth and diversification.
General Requirements
Beyond financial obligations, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Residency Requirement: The applicant must visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
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Employment Restrictions: Residency holders cannot be employed in Cyprus but may own and manage a business.
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Clean Criminal Record: A certificate from the country of origin or residence is required.
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Health Insurance: All family members included in the application must have valid health insurance coverage.
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Legal Source of Funds: Proof that investment funds were legally obtained from abroad.
Investors must also demonstrate strong financial standing and provide relevant documentation to ensure compliance with Cypriot authorities. The government periodically updates regulations to maintain the integrity and competitiveness of the Cyprus Economic Residency program.
Family Inclusion
The Cyprus Investor Visa extends to:
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Spouse: The main applicant’s legally married partner.
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Children: Unmarried children under 18 and financially dependent children up to 25 years old who are full-time students.
Once granted, residency remains valid even if dependent children surpass 25 years of age or their financial dependency status changes. Some investors also explore the option of securing Cyprus Second Residency for extended family members through alternative investment strategies.
Benefits
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Immediate Cyprus PR by Investment: Cyprus Permanent Residency (PR) is granted upon approval with no renewal requirement.
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Pathway to Cyprus Citizenship: Eligibility to apply for Cypriot citizenship after seven years of residency. Cyprus Dual Citizenship is permitted.
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Attractive Cyprus tax Benefits: No inheritance tax, low corporate tax rates, and exemptions on certain foreign income.
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Access to the EU: While Cyprus is not yet part of the Schengen Area, it is expected to join in 2026, enhancing visa-free travel opportunities.
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Secure and High-Quality Living: Cyprus has a low crime rate, excellent infrastructure, and a Mediterranean lifestyle.
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No Physical Stay Requirement: Unlike other European residency programs, the Cyprus Golden Visa does not require continuous residence.
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Business and Financial Growth: The program opens doors to investment opportunities across various sectors, including tourism, technology, and real estate development.
Process & Procedures
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Preparation: Gather necessary documents, including proof of Cyprus Real Estate Investment, income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record.
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Submission: Submit the application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD).
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Payment of Fees: Pay the application processing fee (€500) and Alien Registration Certificate fee (€70 per family member).
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Processing: The government reviews the application, typically taking two months.
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Approval and Issuance: Upon approval, the applicant finalizes the investment and receives their residency permit.
Applicants are encouraged to seek professional legal and financial consultation to streamline the process and optimize their Cyprus Investment Visa strategy. Investors who choose Cyprus Property Investment should also work with reputable real estate developers to ensure compliance with government regulations and secure prime investment locations.
Conclusion
The Cyprus Investment Visa is one of Europe’s most accessible and beneficial economic residency programs. By offering a streamlined route to Cyprus Second Residency through Cyprus Property Investment, Cyprus Business Investment, or Cyprus Investment Fund Investment, the country provides a lucrative opportunity for global investors. With its favourable Cyprus tax system, high living standards, and strategic EU location, Cyprus continues to attract individuals seeking security, stability, and financial growth through Cyprus Residency by Investment (RBI).
As demand for Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment grows, the government remains committed to refining the program to ensure its continued appeal. Whether for lifestyle benefits, financial advantages, or business expansion, the Cyprus Golden Visa stands as a premier choice for investors worldwide.
FAQs
The Cyprus Golden Visa program, officially known as Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment (Cyprus PR by Investment), is one of the most attractive Residency by Investment (RBI) programs in Europe. It allows non-EU investors to obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Cyprus by making a qualifying investment. Below, we answer the most searched-for questions about the Cyprus Investor Visa, covering investment options, requirements, benefits, and the latest updates.
1. What is the Cyprus Golden Visa Program?
The Cyprus Golden Visa program grants Cyprus Permanent Residency (PR) to non-EU investors who fulfil specific investment and financial criteria. It is a highly popular Cyprus Residency by Investment (RBI) scheme that provides a pathway to economic residency in Cyprus through real estate, business, or fund investments.
Key Benefits:
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Permanent Residency (PR) in Cyprus for the applicant and family.
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Fast-track approval within two months.
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No minimum stay requirement (only visit Cyprus once every two years).
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Tax advantages under the Cyprus tax system.
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Access to education & healthcare in Cyprus.
2. What are the Investment Options for Cyprus Golden Visa?
To qualify for Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment (Cyprus PR by Investment), an investor must commit a minimum investment of €300,000 in one of the following categories:
a) Cyprus Real Estate Investment (Residential): Purchase newly built residential properties (resale properties are not eligible)
b) Cyprus Property Investment (Commercial): Purchase new or existing commercial property (e.g., office spaces, hotels, retail spaces).
c) Cyprus Business Investment: Invest in a Cypriot company that employs at least five people.
d) Cyprus Investment Fund Investment: Invest in units of a Cypriot Alternative Investment Fund (AIF).
3. Are there any Income & Financial Requirements?
Yes, applicants must prove an annual income of at least €50,000, with additional amounts required for dependents:
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Spouse: + €15,000
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Each child: + €10,000
The income must originate from outside Cyprus, unless the applicant has invested in a Cypriot company.
4. Can Family Members Be Included in the Cyprus Investor Visa?
Yes. The Cyprus Investment Visa covers the main applicant, spouse, and dependent children under the age of 18. Additionally, unmarried, financially dependent children (aged 18–25) who are full-time students can be included. Parents of the main applicant and their spouse can also apply under the same investment, provided an additional €300,000 investment is made.
5. What is the Cyprus Golden Visa Application Process?
The application process for the Cyprus Residency by Investment (RBI) program is simple and fast, usually taking two months:
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Make the required investment (e.g., purchase property, invest in a business).
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Submit an application to the Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department.
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Provide supporting documents (proof of investment, clean criminal record, proof of income, etc.).
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Receive approval (within 2 months).
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Obtain the residency permit and visit Cyprus at least once every 2 years to maintain it.
6. What are the Residency & Travel Benefits?
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Permanent Residency (PR) in Cyprus with no renewal required.
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Visa-free travel to Schengen Zone soon.
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No requirement to live in Cyprus (just visit once every two years).
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High quality of life, Mediterranean climate, and low Cyprus tax rates for residents.
7. Can I Work in Cyprus with the Golden Visa?
No, holders of the Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment permit cannot be employed in Cyprus. However, they can own businesses and earn income from Cyprus Business Investment, Cyprus Investment Fund Investment or Cyprus Real Estate Investment (e.g., rental income).
8. Does the Cyprus Golden Visa Lead to Cyprus Citizenship?
While the Cyprus Golden Visa does not directly lead to Cyprus citizenship, residents can apply for Cypriot citizenship through naturalization after 7 years of legal residence in Cyprus. Cyprus Dual Citizenship is permitted.
9. What Are the Latest Changes to the Cyprus Golden Visa?
In 2023, the Cyprus government tightened regulations to enhance the program’s credibility. Key changes include:
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Applicants must prove a stable income every year.
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The investment must remain in place permanently (previously, some investments were temporary).
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A criminal record check is required every 3 years.
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Proof that the investment funds originate from the applicant or their spouse.
10. What Are the Cyprus Tax Benefits for Golden Visa Holders?
Cyprus offers an attractive tax system with no inheritance tax, low income tax, and no worldwide taxation for non-domiciled residents. Key benefits include:
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Corporate tax rate of 12.5% (one of the lowest in the EU).
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No tax on worldwide income if not tax-resident in Cyprus.
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Non-domiciled individuals benefit from 0% tax on dividends & interest income.
11. What is the Minimum Stay Requirement for the Cyprus Golden Visa?
Unlike other European Golden Visas, the Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment (Cyprus PR by Investment) program does not require continuous residence. Holders must visit Cyprus once every two years to maintain their status.
12. Can I Sell My Cyprus Real Estate Investment After Receiving the Golden Visa?
No, the €300,000 investment must be maintained permanently to keep the Cyprus Investment Visa. However, investors can sell their property and reinvest in another eligible investment.
13. Is Cyprus a Good Country for Second Residency?
Yes. Cyprus is one of the most attractive options for Second Residency due to:
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Stable economy & EU membership.
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Low Cyprus tax rates & investment-friendly policies.
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Strategic location between Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
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Safe, high-quality lifestyle.
14. Is the Cyprus Golden Visa Worth It?
The Cyprus Golden Visa program remains one of the best Residency by Investment (RBI) programs in Europe. Whether you’re interested in Cyprus Real Estate Investment, Cyprus Business Investment, or Cyprus Investment Fund Investment, this program offers Cyprus Permanent Residency (PR), tax benefits, and a European lifestyle.
If you’re considering Cyprus PR by Investment, consult a professional legal advisor to ensure compliance with the latest regulations.