Guide to Residency in Cyprus

Obtaining a residency visa in Cyprus is not always easy, but our Guide to Residency in Cyprus gives newcomers an overview of the steps involved and advice from others who have already navigated the process.

• Understand the types of residency permits
  • Temporary Residence Permit (Pink Slip): Issued for non-EU citizens who come to Cyprus for long-term purposes without employment.
  • Permanent Residence Permit (Category F): Issued for non-EU citizens who possess and have fully and freely at their disposal a secured annual income, high enough to give them a decent living in Cyprus.
• Check eligibility and requirements
  • Visit the Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department website to learn about the requirements for the specific residency permit type.
• Prepare necessary documents
  • Valid passport: Ensure your passport is valid and has at least two blank pages.
  • Visa: If required, obtain a visa to enter Cyprus.
  • Photographs: Have passport-sized photographs taken.
  • Medical insurance: Obtain a comprehensive health insurance plan.
  • Medical certificate: Undergo a medical examination and obtain a certificate of good health.
  • Clean criminal record certificate: Obtain a certificate of clean criminal record from your country of origin.
  • Financial documents: Prepare documents proving you have sufficient funds to support yourself in Cyprus.
• Apply for a Tax Number
  • Visit the Cyprus Tax Department website to learn about the application process.
  • Submit an application form (T.D 127 EN) along with a copy of your passport and a utility bill or rental agreement as proof of residence.
• Register with the Aliens' Registration Office
  • Visit the local Immigration Branch Office within eight days of arrival in Cyprus.
  • Submit an application form (AR1), passport photographs, and other required documents.
  • Pay the registration fee.
• Apply for a residency permit
  • Gather all required documents, including the application form (M.61 or M.67), passport, visa, medical insurance, medical certificate, clean criminal record certificate, financial documents, and tax number certificate.
  • Submit the application in person at the Civil Registry and Migration Department or at the District Aliens and Immigration Branch of the Police.
  • Pay the application fee.
• Wait for processing
  • The processing time for residency permits can take several months. You can check the status of your application by contacting the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
• Register with the Social Insurance Services
  • Once you have obtained your residency permit, visit the Department of Social Insurance Services website to learn about the registration process.
  • Submit an application form (Y.K.A 1), along with a copy of your passport, residency permit, and a certificate of employment (if applicable).

Important Notes

It is recommended to consult with the Cyprus Civil Registry and Migration Department or a qualified immigration lawyer for personalized advice tailored to your specific situation.

Always ensure that you have valid health insurance coverage throughout your stay in Cyprus.

Keep copies of all submitted documents for your records and future reference.

What tips do expats have about residency and visas in Cyprus?

"In order to visit Cyprus, foreign nationals must obtain a visa from a Cypriot embassy or consulate prior to their arrival. The visa application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, and any other documents requested by the embassy or consulate. In order to obtain residency in Cyprus, foreign nationals must apply for a residence permit. The application process requires applicants to submit a valid passport, a completed application form, proof of sufficient funds, proof of health insurance, and any other documents requested by the immigration authorities. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of employment or self-employment in Cyprus, or proof of sufficient funds to support themselves while in the country," commented one member living in Cyprus.