Buy a Cyprus Property & Get a Permanent Residency
Cyprus Residency Program – Secure Your Cyprus Permanent Visa with Fox Real Estate
Introduction to the Cyprus Residency Program
The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is not only a world-renowned travel destination—it’s also a premier choice for global investors seeking permanent EU residency through strategic property and business investment.
The Cyprus residency program allows non-EU nationals to obtain permanent residence permits by investing in qualifying Cypriot assets. With its advantageous legal framework, low-tax environment, and exceptional lifestyle offerings, Cyprus continues to attract investors from around the world.
2021 Reforms That Made the Cyprus Residency Program More Accessible
In March 2021, the government of Cyprus implemented significant reforms to make the Cyprus permanent visaprogram more accessible, efficient, and attractive.
Key Improvements:
- No More Deposit Requirement: The mandatory €30,000 deposit in a local bank account has been eliminated.
- Expanded Investment Scope: Applicants can now invest in commercial real estate, company shares, or regulated investment funds—beyond traditional residential properties.
- Flexibility for Applicants: Investors now have multiple options for complying with the program, increasing access for diverse investment profiles.
These changes have increased demand for the Cyprus visa program, positioning it among the most competitive residency offerings in Europe.
Qualifying for the Cyprus Permanent Residency Permit
The legal basis of the Cyprus permanent residency permit is Regulation 6 (2) of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations. According to this regulation, the Minister of Interior, under the direction of the Council of Ministers, has the authority to grant immigration permits to third-country nationals who fulfill investment and income requirements.
Applicants can include:
- The main investor
- Spouse
- Children under 25
- Parents and in-laws
The entire family benefits from Cyprus's EU-standard education, healthcare, and lifestyle infrastructure.
Investment Options Under the Cyprus Visa Program
To be eligible for permanent residency, applicants must invest at least €300,000 in one of the following categories:
1. Residential Property
- Must be new and purchased from a licensed developer
- Minimum value of €300,000 (excluding VAT)
- Popular areas: Limassol, Paphos, Larnaka, Nicosia
2. Commercial Property
- May include offices, retail spaces, hotels
- Can be new or resale
- Must meet valuation requirements and be legally registered
3. Cyprus Company Share Capital
- Invest in a Cyprus-based company with a physical office and at least 5 local employees
- Promotes job creation and economic development
4. Cyprus Investment Funds
- Invest in units or shares of AIF, AIFLNP, or RAIF funds regulated in Cyprus
These investment options reflect Cyprus’s commitment to diversifying its residency program while supporting its economy.
Income Requirements for the Cyprus Permanent Visa
Beyond the initial investment, applicants must show proof of a secure and sufficient annual income to support themselves and their dependents in Cyprus.
Income Thresholds:
- Base requirement: €30,000 annually
- Spouse and children: +€5,000 per dependent
- Parents and in-laws: +€8,000 per dependent
Eligible Income Sources:
- Salaries from foreign employment
- Pensions or retirement income
- Dividends from company shares
- Interest or rental income
- Royalties or intellectual property rights
All income must be verifiable and originate from sources outside Cyprus, emphasizing the investor’s financial independence.
Quality and Security Criteria for Applicants
Cyprus upholds a high standard of security and transparency in its Cyprus residency program.
Eligibility Conditions:
- No criminal record for the applicant or spouse
- Applicants must declare they do not intend to work in Cyprus, except as shareholders or directors of their invested company
- Medical clearance may be requested in special cases
- All dependents included must also meet quality criteria
These measures ensure that all applicants contribute positively to Cypriot society.
Required Legal Documents for Cyprus Residency Application
The legal documentation required varies slightly depending on the type of investment, but generally includes:
For Real Estate Investments:
- Copy of signed contract of sale or title deed
- Proof of payment (€200,000 minimum paid from abroad)
- Confirmation of fund origin via bank statements or SWIFT transfers
General Documentation:
- Valid passport copies for all applicants
- Marriage certificate, birth certificates of children (official translations required)
- Certificate of clean criminal record from country of origin
- Proof of income (tax returns, salary slips, dividend statements)
All documentation must be officially translated into Greek or English and certified by apostille or embassy.
Timeline and Process for Cyprus Residency Approval
Once you’ve gathered and submitted the required documents, the application process is swift and straightforward.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Select investment path (residential, commercial, company shares, or fund)
- Engage a licensed lawyer or real estate agency such as Fox Realty
- Submit documentation to Civil Registry and Migration Department
- Application forwarded to the Minister of Interior
- Approval granted in approximately 2 months
Upon approval, applicants receive a permanent residence card, and their dependents are granted the same status.
Benefits of the Cyprus Permanent Residency Program
Cyprus offers one of the most generous and beneficial residency programs in Europe. Here are the key benefits:
Freedom of Movement:
- Permanent residents can live in Cyprus indefinitely
- Easy access to other EU countries via Cyprus’s EU status
Family Reunification:
- Spouse and children under 25 included
- Parents and in-laws also eligible
Education and Healthcare Access:
- Residency holders may enroll children in public or private schools
- Access to public and private healthcare systems
Tax and Financial Benefits:
- No withholding tax on foreign dividends and interest
- Cyprus has double tax treaties with 65+ countries
- No inheritance tax
Cyprus’s status as a non-blacklisted EU jurisdiction also provides confidence to investors seeking financial transparency.
Comparison with Other European Residency Programs
| Country | Minimum Investment | Processing Time | Family Inclusion | Residency Validity |
| Cyprus | €300,000 | ~2 months | Yes (children & parents) | Permanent |
| Portugal | €280,000–€500,000 | 8–12 months | Yes | 5-year residency |
| Greece | €250,000 | 6–9 months | Yes | 5-year renewable |
| Malta | €600,000+ | 12+ months | Yes | Permanent after 5 years |
Cyprus leads in speed, simplicity, and permanence of residency status.
Cyprus Lifestyle Advantages for Permanent Residents
Cyprus is beloved not just for its investment benefits but for its lifestyle:
- Over 340 days of sunshine per year
- Low crime rates and high safety for families
- Scenic beaches, mountains, and heritage towns
- Cosmopolitan cities like Limassol and charming coastal towns like Paphos
- English is widely spoken, with British-style infrastructure and education
Residency in Cyprus means enjoying one of the highest qualities of life in the EU.
Spotlight on Limassol and Paphos Property Investment
Limassol:
- High-end developments in Limassol Marina and Agios Tychonas
- Ideal for those seeking a cosmopolitan lifestyle with financial hubs, private schools, and luxury retail
Paphos:
- More affordable than Limassol, with strong rental demand
- Popular among retirees, remote workers, and families
- Excellent choices in Tala, Peyia, Coral Bay, and Aphrodite Hills
Investing in either region provides strong ROI and access to permanent residency benefits.
Role of Fox Real Estate in Your Cyprus Residency Journey
At Fox, we are more than just a property agency—we are your strategic partner in achieving Cyprus permanent residency.
Why Choose Us:
- Partnerships with licensed immigration lawyers and auditing firms
- Personalized investment strategies in real estate and commercial assets
- Guidance through every stage of the residency application
- Transparent property listings compliant with Regulation 6(2) requirements
Whether you're investing for lifestyle, retirement, or a strategic second passport, Fox Realty ensures a secure, efficient, and successful experience.
Real-Life Success Stories: Client Testimonials
At Fox Real Estate, we take pride in helping clients from around the world successfully navigate the Cyprus residency program. Here are just a few stories that reflect our commitment and results:
Ali M., Entrepreneur from Dubai
"I was searching for a second residency in Europe that wouldn’t involve endless bureaucracy. Fox Realty guided me through the property selection in Limassol, collaborated with their legal partners, and within two months, my family and I had our Cyprus permanent visas. It was fast, clear, and professionally handled."
Sarah and John P., Retirees from the UK
"We fell in love with Paphos during a vacation and decided to make it our second home. Fox Realty showed us several qualifying villas and even helped us rent it while our application was processed. Now we enjoy Cyprus year-round, worry-free."
Avoiding Common Pitfalls in Cyprus Visa Applications
Even with a simplified process, applicants must avoid common mistakes that can delay or derail their Cyprus permanent residency journey.
Mistakes to Avoid:
- Ineligible Property Purchases: Only new residential properties qualify for the fast-track residency route.
- Underpaying Initial Investment: At least €200,000 must be paid upfront and from abroad.
- Unverified Agents: Work only with licensed real estate agents and law firms.
- Missing Documentation: Incomplete applications cause significant delays.
- Unrealistic Timeline Expectations: While approval is fast, due diligence still takes time.
With Fox Realty’s expertise, we ensure every requirement is fulfilled properly and on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long is Cyprus permanent residency valid?
Permanent residency in Cyprus is valid for life and only needs to be renewed when updating your ID or documents.
2. Can I include my parents in the same application?
Yes. Parents and in-laws of the main applicant are eligible with an additional income requirement.
3. Do I need to live in Cyprus full time?
No. You must visit Cyprus once every two years to maintain your residency status.
4. Can I buy resale property and still qualify?
Only new residential property qualifies for the fast-track residency option. Resale property is allowed under other immigration routes but not for this permit.
5. How soon can I get Cypriot citizenship?
You may apply for citizenship after 7 years of continuous residency and meeting naturalization criteria.
6. What taxes will I pay on rental income?
Rental income is taxed under Cyprus income tax rules, but non-domiciled residents benefit from exemptions on global income including dividends and interest.
7. Can I apply through a company or trust?
No. The investment must be made in your personal name.
8. Can I work in Cyprus under the permanent residency scheme?
You may not work as an employee. However, you may act as a director or shareholder in your own company.
9. What happens if I sell my investment property?
You must replace it with another qualifying investment of equal or greater value to retain residency.
10. How do I begin the process with Fox Realty?
Simply contact our team to book a free consultation. We’ll review your goals and present a personalized roadmap for investment and residency.
Final Thoughts – Your Future in Cyprus Begins with Fox Real Estate
Cyprus remains one of the most welcoming, affordable, and secure gateways to permanent EU residency. With the updated Cyprus residency program, international investors can now choose from multiple investment paths—residential and commercial real estate, business ownership, and regulated funds—starting from just €300,000.
At Fox Real Estate, we don’t just sell properties—we deliver peace of mind. Our comprehensive service model ensures your investment aligns with immigration laws, financial goals, and lifestyle aspirations.
Whether you're seeking a holiday home in Paphos, a seafront apartment in Limassol, or a secure route to residency for your family, our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Fox Real Estate Today
Take the first step toward a better future in Cyprus.