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Before You Move to Cyprus

Residency & Visas

Your Guide to Cyprus Visas & Residency Permits (for EU & Non-EU)

One of the first and most important steps in your relocation journey is securing the legal right to live in Cyprus. The path you take depends entirely on your nationality and your purpose for staying. This CyExpats.com guide breaks down the main residency options for both EU and non-EU citizens to help you understand the requirements.

The Golden Rule

Regardless of the route, you must apply for residency within the first few months of your arrival. For EU citizens, this is within 4 months. For non-EU citizens on a long-stay visa, it's typically within 7 days. Do not delay this process.

Cyprus Residency Pathways at a Glance

Permit Type EU Citizen (Yellow Slip) Non-EU Visitor (Pink Slip) Digital Nomad Visa Permanent Resident (Investor)
Who is it for? EU/EEA/Swiss citizens staying over 90 days. Non-EU nationals wishing to reside in Cyprus for over 90 days without working (e.g., retirees, financially independent persons). Non-EU nationals working remotely for companies outside Cyprus. Non-EU investors making a significant financial contribution to the Cypriot economy.
Right to Work? Yes, full rights to work or be self-employed. No right to work. No, you can only work for employers or clients based outside Cyprus. No, not based on the investment. You can be a Director in the company you've invested in.
Key Requirement Proof of employment, self-employment, or sufficient funds & health insurance. Proof of adequate annual income from abroad (e.g., €24,000+) and a Cypriot bank account. Proof of stable monthly income of at least €3,500 after tax. Minimum investment of €300,000 in real estate, company shares, or funds.
Validity Indefinite (does not expire). 1 year, renewable annually. 1 year, renewable for up to two more years. Permanent (for life).
Application Form MEU1 MVIS6 (Specific Digital Nomad Form) MIP1

Detailed Breakdown of Each Permit

1. For EU Citizens: The "Yellow Slip" (MEU1)

This is a straightforward registration process for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals. You must apply at your local district's Immigration Unit within four months of arrival. You'll need your passport/ID, a stamped rental agreement, proof of your status (e.g., employment contract for workers, or proof of sufficient funds and health insurance for those not working), and a fee of €20. The permit itself does not expire.

2. For Non-EU Visitors: The "Pink Slip" (Temporary Residence)

This is the most common permit for non-EU retirees or other financially independent individuals who do not intend to work in Cyprus. The key is proving you can support yourself with funds from abroad.

💡 Can You Afford to Retire or Live Here?

Assessing your finances is crucial for the Pink Slip. Use our tools to see if your income is sufficient for the lifestyle you want.

3. For Remote Workers: The Digital Nomad Visa

Cyprus actively encourages remote workers. This visa allows non-EU nationals to live in Cyprus while working for employers or clients located abroad.

4. For Investors: Permanent Residency by Investment

This is a fast-track route to a lifetime permanent residency permit for non-EU nationals who make a significant investment in the country.

🧮 Calculate Your Investment Costs

If you're considering the real estate investment route, it's crucial to understand all the associated costs, not just the purchase price.

Official Resources

Note: The links provided are the most current official resources as of 2025. However, please verify their accessibility and content directly on the government websites.

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