Investment-Based Residency in Cyprus: An Overview
Cyprus offers a streamlined pathway for non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residency through investment, primarily governed by Regulation 6(2) of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations. This program is designed to attract foreign capital while offering investors the right to reside indefinitely in the Republic of Cyprus. As of 2025 and 2026, the regulations emphasize not only the initial capital injection but also the ongoing financial stability of the applicant and their dependents.
Unlike temporary permits, the Permanent Residency (PR) by investment does not require frequent renewals, provided the investor complies with annual verification requirements. However, it is important to note that this permit grants residency rights but does not automatically authorize the holder to engage in employment in Cyprus, with specific exceptions related to directorships in the invested entities.
Investment Categories and Financial Thresholds
To qualify for the fast-track permanent residency program, the applicant must make a minimum investment of €300,000 ($315,000 USD, Jan 2026) plus VAT where applicable. The funds must be proven to have been transferred from abroad and must remain invested in the country. There are four primary pathways available to investors:
- Residential Real Estate: Purchase of up to two new residential units from a land development company. These must be first-time sales (new builds), not resales.
- Commercial Real Estate: Investment in offices, shops, hotels, or similar developments. These can be new or resale properties.
- Share Capital of a Cyprus Company: Investing in the share capital of a company registered and operating in the Republic of Cyprus, which employs at least five people and has a physical presence.
- Units in Investment Funds: Purchase of units in a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization (AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF).
The choice of investment dictates the specific documentation required, but the minimum threshold remains consistent across all categories at €300,000 ($315,000 USD, Jan 2026).
Mandatory Income and Dependent Requirements
Following regulatory updates, the financial requirements for the main applicant and their family members have been strictly defined. The main applicant must demonstrate a secure annual income of at least €50,000 ($52,500 USD, Jan 2026). This income must originate from sources outside of Cyprus, such as salaries, pensions, dividends, or rental income.
If the applicant wishes to include family members, the required annual income increases as follows:
- Spouse: Additional €15,000 ($15,750 USD, Jan 2026) per year.
- Minor Children: Additional €10,000 ($10,500 USD, Jan 2026) per child.
Important Note: Under the current 2025/2026 rules, parents and parents-in-law are no longer eligible to be included as dependents under the main applicant’s permanent residency file. They must apply for residency through other independent categories.
Application Process and Ongoing Compliance
The application is submitted to the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD). Once the investment is finalized and the necessary documentation (including a clean criminal record and proof of health insurance) is provided, the processing time typically ranges from 2 to 6 months. Successful applicants are issued a residency card which must be collected in person to provide biometric data.
To maintain the validity of the permit, holders must adhere to several ongoing obligations:
- Physical Presence: The holder and their dependents must visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
- Annual Verification: Starting in 2024 and continuing through 2026, permit holders must provide annual evidence to the CRMD that they still maintain the investment and have valid health insurance for all family members.
- Non-Employment: Applicants must sign an affidavit stating they will not be employed in Cyprus, though they may serve as directors in the company they have invested in or receive dividends from Cyprus-based businesses.
Failure to provide the annual evidence of investment and insurance can lead to the revocation of the residency permit. For detailed official forms and current fee schedules, visitors should consult the Ministry of Interior portal.
