Pre-Move Checklist for Cyprus
Relocating to the Republic of Cyprus requires systematic preparation of legal, financial, and personal documentation. As of 2025 and moving into 2026, administrative procedures have become increasingly digitalized, yet physical documentation remains a core requirement for residency applications. This guide outlines the essential steps to complete before departing your current country of residence.
Documentation and Legal Requirements
The primary requirement for any foreign national is ensuring all personal documents are "Apostilled" or legalized for use in Cyprus. Cyprus is a member of the Hague Convention; therefore, documents from other member states must bear an Apostille stamp to be recognized by the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
Essential Documents to Gather
- Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least 12–18 months of validity remaining from your planned entry date.
- Vital Records: Original birth certificates and marriage certificates (if applicable). These must be translated into English or Greek by a certified translator if they are in another language.
- Clean Criminal Record Certificate: Usually required for all non-EU nationals. This must be issued by the authorities in your home country (or country of residence) within the last six months.
- Educational Qualifications: Degrees and certifications, particularly if you are applying for a Work Permit or the Digital Nomad Visa.
Note: Document requirements vary significantly between EU/EEA citizens and Third-Country Nationals (non-EU). EU citizens follow the "Yellow Slip" (MEU1) process, while non-EU citizens typically follow "Pink Slip" (MVIS) or specialized visa routes.
Financial Readiness and Banking
Cyprus requires proof of sufficient means of subsistence for all non-working residency categories. For 2025/2026, the threshold for a "Temporary Resident - Visitor" visa generally requires a stable foreign income. While specific amounts vary by case, a minimum monthly income of approximately 2,000 EUR ($2,110 USD, Jan 2026) is a common benchmark for a single applicant, increasing for dependents.
Pre-Move Financial Steps
- Proof of Funds: Prepare bank statements from the last 6–12 months showing regular income or a significant lump sum.
- Bank Guarantee: Non-EU nationals are often required to provide a bank guarantee to cover potential repatriation costs. The amount depends on the country of origin, ranging from 350 EUR ($370 USD, Jan 2026) to 850 EUR ($895 USD, Jan 2026).
- Tax Residency: Consult a professional regarding the "183-day rule" and the "60-day rule" to understand when you will become a tax resident of Cyprus and your potential eligibility for the "Non-Domicile" tax status.
For detailed information on current tax brackets and registration, visit the Official Cyprus Tax Department Portal.
Healthcare and Insurance
Access to the General Healthcare System (GeSY) is only available after residency has been established and contributions have begun (either through employment or as a registered retiree). Therefore, obtaining private health insurance before arrival is a mandatory step for the residency application process.
Health Insurance Criteria
- Coverage Requirements: The policy must cover inpatient and outpatient care, as well as the repatriation of remains.
- Standard Policy Cost: A basic "Plan A" private insurance policy suitable for immigration purposes typically costs between 120 EUR ($127 USD, Jan 2026) and 200 EUR ($211 USD, Jan 2026) per year, depending on the age of the applicant.
- S1 Form (EU/EEA/UK): If you are a pensioner from an EU country or the UK, ensure you have obtained your S1 form. This allows you to register for GeSY without the standard social insurance contributions.
Logistics and Accommodations
Securing a long-term address is necessary for almost all administrative registrations. A rental agreement must be for at least 12 months and, in most cases, must be stamped at the District Tax Office to be legally valid for the Migration Department.
Accommodation Checklist
- Rental Agreement: Must include the landlord's and tenant's details, property description, and be signed by two witnesses.
- Utility Setup: Be prepared to pay deposits for electricity (EAC) and water. For foreigners without a local history, deposits for electricity can be approximately 200 EUR ($211 USD, Jan 2026) to 350 EUR ($370 USD, Jan 2026).
- Pet Relocation: Cyprus has strict rules regarding the pet passport, microchipping, and rabies vaccinations. A "Notification of Arrival" must be sent to the Veterinary Services at least 48 hours before landing.
