Ultimate Goal Guide
Your Guide to Cypriot Citizenship by Naturalization (2025)
For many long-term expats, obtaining Cypriot citizenship is the ultimate step in making the island their permanent home. A Cypriot passport grants the full rights of an EU citizen, including freedom of movement, work, and life across the European Union. Recent changes to the law have updated the requirements, making the path clearer. This CyExpats.com guide details the process of becoming a citizen through naturalization.
Important: New Law as of late 2023
Cyprus has amended its Civil Registry Law, changing the residency requirements for naturalization. The previous "7 out of 10 years" rule has been updated. The new law specifies a total of **8 years of legal residence within the last 11 years** for the standard route and introduces new fast-track options for highly skilled professionals.
The Path to Citizenship by Naturalization
Naturalization is the process by which a foreign national who has legally resided in Cyprus for a specified period can become a citizen. It is not automatic and requires a formal application and proof of integration.
Typical Journey from Resident to Citizen
Residency
Residency (Year 5)
& Culture Req.
(Year 8+)
Key Requirements for Naturalization (Standard Route)
Under the new law, an applicant must meet all the following criteria to be eligible:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency Period | A total of **8 years (2,920 days) of legal residence** in Cyprus within the **previous 11 years**. |
| Continuous Residence | Legal and continuous residence in Cyprus for the **entire 12 months immediately preceding** the date of application. Absences totaling no more than 90 days are permitted within this 12-month period. |
| Good Character | A clean criminal record from both Cyprus and your country of origin is mandatory. The authorities will assess your general character. |
| Language Proficiency | A certificate proving sufficient knowledge of the Greek language at the **B1 level** of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This is tested via official exams. |
| Cultural Knowledge | Sufficient knowledge of the basic elements of the contemporary political and social reality of Cyprus. This is also assessed through an official examination. |
| Financial Stability | Proof of suitable accommodation (rental or owned) and stable, regular financial resources sufficient to support yourself and your family without relying on the public social assistance system. |
| Intention to Reside | You must declare your intention to reside in the Republic of Cyprus. |
💰 Proving financial stability is a key part of your application. To understand your income and contributions in Cyprus, which demonstrates your financial integration, use our Income Tax & GESY Calculator.
Fast-Track Option for Highly Skilled Professionals
The new law introduces an expedited path for highly skilled professionals working for foreign interest companies, aiming to attract top talent.
- 5 Years of Residence + A2 Greek: Apply after 5 years of residence if you have a certificate of Greek language proficiency at the A2 level (basic).
- 4 Years of Residence + B1 Greek: Apply after just 4 years of residence if you hold the higher B1 level Greek language certificate.
All other conditions (good character, continuous residence for the last 12 months, financial stability) still apply.
The Application Process
- Prepare Documents: This is a lengthy process. You will need your birth certificate, passport, clean criminal record certificates, marriage certificate (if applicable), residency permits, proof of residence, financial documents, language/culture certificates, and more. All foreign documents must be officially translated and have an Apostille stamp.
- Submit Application (Form M127): The application must be submitted in person at the Civil Registry and Migration Department or a district office. You will sign the application in the presence of a Registrar.
- Pay Fees: An application fee of €500 is payable upon submission. If your application is approved, a further €500 is payable for the issuance of the naturalization certificate.
- Wait for Examination: The processing time for citizenship applications is long and can take 2-3 years. Be prepared for a significant waiting period.
Official Resources: