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Complete Guide to the Cyprus Golden Visa Program

The Cyprus Golden Visa Program, introduced in 2020, offers a straightforward route to Permanent Residency through investment. While it does not provide immediate citizenship, it opens the door to long-term residence in Europe with a minimum investment of €300,000.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the benefits, requirements, and investment options available under the program.

Why Choose the Cyprus Golden Visa?

Residency-by-investment programs are increasingly popular—and Cyprus stands out for several compelling reasons:

1. Affordable Entry Point

With a minimum investment starting at €300,000, Cyprus offers one of the most cost-effective permanent residency programs in Europe, especially compared to alternatives like Malta or Bulgaria.

2. European Residency

Cyprus is part of the European Union, giving residents access to high-quality healthcare, education, and a safe, stable lifestyle.

3. Minimal Stay Requirement

You don’t need to live in Cyprus full-time. To maintain your residency, you only need to visit once every two years.

4. Path to Citizenship

Although citizenship isn’t granted immediately, you may apply for naturalization after 5 years of full-time residence.

5. Dual Citizenship Allowed

Cyprus permits dual citizenship, allowing you to retain your current nationality (subject to your home country’s laws).

6. Family Inclusion

You can include your immediate family members in your application:

• Spouse
• Children Under 18 years
• Children aged 18-25 (if they meet specifc requirements)

7. Tax Advantages

Cyprus offers a favorable tax environment:

• No Inheritance or Gift tax
• No tax on Worldwide income if you stay less tha 183 days per year
• Double taxation agreements with many countries

8. Exit Flexibility

After 5 years, you can sell your investment, provided you maintain a minimum qualifying investment of €300,000.

Cyprus Golden Visa Eligibility Criteria

Main Applicant Requirements:

To qualify, you must:

• Invest at least €300,000 in an approved category
• Show a minimum annual income of €50,000 (plus €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 per child)
• Have a clean criminal record
• Provide proof of accommodation in Cyprus
• Visit Cyprus at least once every two years
• Declare that you will not work in Cyprus (except as a company director)

Accepted income sources include salaries, pensions, rental income, dividends, and interest—verified through official tax documents.

Investment Options for the Cyprus Golden Visa

There are four main routes to qualify:

1. Residential Property Investment

• Minimum €300,000 (excluding VAT)
• Must purchase new residential property
• At least €200,000 + VAT must be paid upfront
• Funds must come from abroad

2. Commercial Property Investment

• Minimum €300,000 (excluding VAT)
• Includes offices, shops, hotels, or similar developments

3. Investment in a Cypriot Company

• Minimum €300,000
• Company must have a physical presence in Cyprus
• Must employ at least 5 Cypriot or EU citizens
• You may act as an unpaid director and earn dividends

4. Investment in Cyprus Investment Funds

• Minimum €300,000
• Funds must be regulated (AIF, UCITS, or RAIF)
• Must be approved by the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC)

Mandatory Supporting Documents

When applying, you will need to prepare the following:

1. 1. Completed application form
2. 2. Valid passports for all applicants
3. 3. CV of the main applicant
4. 4. Proof of investment
5. 5. Proof of source of funds
6. 6. Proof of annual income
7. 7. Criminal record certificate
8. 8. Marriage certificate (if applicable)
9. 9. Birth certificates for children (if applicable)
10. 10. Valid health insurance
11. 11. Passport-sized photos
12. 12. Statement of intent

Important:

All documents must be translated into Greek or English and certified (with an Apostille stamp if required).

Get Expert Assistance

Applying for the Cyprus Golden Visa can be complex, but professional guidance can make the process seamless.

VisaConnect and its network of Cyprus immigration lawyers offer expert support every step of the way—from selecting the right investment to submitting your application.

📞 Contact VisaConnect's Offices:

• Hong Kong: +852 3840 9107
• Singapore: +65 3105 1536
• Sydney: +61 2 9151 7350

If you're considering European residency through investment, Cyprus offers one of the most accessible and flexible options available today.