Cyprus Golden Visa 2025: How to Obtain Permanent Residency Through Investment

Table of Contents

1.      Introduction

2.      Key Requirements for Cyprus Residency by Investment

3.      Benefits of the Cyprus Permanent Residency Program

4.      Upcoming Benefits of the Schengen Zone

5.      Why Cyprus and Why Now

6.      Conclusion

Introduction

For non-EU investors seeking a gateway into Europe, the Cyprus Golden Visa (Permanent Residency by Investment Program) offers a secure and efficient solution. By making a qualifying investment in Cyprus, individuals and their families can obtain permanent residency in the European Union.

The Cyprus Golden Visa provides a fast-track route to permanent residency, granting the holder a lifetime right to live in Cyprus without the need to convert to another status. In practice, Cyprus becomes a stable, long-term base for the investor and their family, offering safety, opportunity, and access to European markets.

Key Requirements for Cyprus Residency by Investment

To qualify for Cyprus permanent residency through investment, applicants must meet government-set criteria designed to ensure financial stability and genuine investment intent.

Main Requirements:

·         Minimum Investment: €300,000 + VAT (if applicable) in one of the approved categories.

·         The funds must be transferred from abroad from the applicant’s or spouse’s bank account (if the spouse is included as a dependent).

·         Property Investment: Purchase of a first-sale house or apartment worth at least €300,000 (plus VAT) from a development company.

·         Other Real Estate: Purchase of commercial properties such as offices, shops, hotels, or similar developments - resale properties also qualify.

·         Company Investment: €300,000 in the share capital of a newly registered or existing Cyprus company, operating in Cyprus with a proven physical presence and at least five employees.

·         Investment Funds: €300,000 in units of Cyprus Investment Funds (AIF, AIFLNP, or RAIF).

Secure Annual Income

·         €50,000 minimum for the main applicant

·         €15,000 for the spouse

·         €10,000 for each dependent child (up to 25 years, unmarried and financially dependent)This income can derive from salaries, dividends, rents, or pensions. For residential property investors, the income must originate from abroad and be proven through tax declarations.

Other Requirements

·         Clean Criminal Record: For the applicant, spouse, and dependents.

·         Health Insurance: Valid medical coverage in Cyprus.

·         No Employment in Cyprus: Applicants cannot be employed in Cyprus but can own a company, receive dividends, and act as unpaid directors.

Maintain the Investment & Visit Requirement

·         The investment and compliance must be maintained over time.

·         Annual confirmation of the investment and health insurance.

·         Every three years, resubmit clean criminal records.

·         Visit Cyprus at least once every two years to retain the residency.

Benefits of the Cyprus Permanent Residency Program

The Cyprus Permanent Residency Program provides long-term benefits for investors and their families, combining legal security, lifestyle advantages, and business opportunities.

Permanent Status: Lifetime residency with no need for renewal.

Family Inclusion: Covers spouse and dependent children, offering shared residency rights.

No Residency Obligation: You don’t need to live in Cyprus full-time. You can maintain your base abroad while enjoying Cypriot residency benefits.

Freedom to Live, Study, and Access Services: PR holders can enter and leave Cyprus freely, access Cyprus’s national healthcare system (GESY), and enroll their children in local or private schools.

High Quality of Life and Safety: With over 320 days of sunshine, low crime, and modern infrastructure, Cyprus provides an ideal environment for families and retirees.

Favorable Tax Regime: One of Europe’s lowest corporate tax rates (12.5%), no inheritance tax, and various exemptions on investment income make Cyprus an ideal choice for wealth management and estate planning.

Pathway to Citizenship: PR holders can apply for Cypriot citizenship by naturalization after meeting residence requirements.

Upcoming Benefits of the Schengen Zone

Cyprus is expected to join the Schengen Area by 2026, according to government officials. This development will allow visa-free travel across 26 European countries for short stays.

Once Cyprus becomes a Schengen member, PR holders will enjoy seamless travel for business or leisure throughout most of the EU. This upcoming benefit significantly enhances the long-term value of the Cyprus Permanent Residency Program.

Why Cyprus and Why Now

As EU nations tighten or phase out residency-by-investment programs, Cyprus remains one of the few affordable and accessible options in 2025.

At an investment threshold of €300,000, Cyprus’s program is more cost-effective than most other EU options. It grants immediate permanent residency rather than temporary visas and involves a straightforward process with reasonable ongoing obligations.

Cyprus’s anticipated entry into the Schengen Zone amplifies its appeal, offering the same travel privileges as other EU programs at a lower cost and with permanent status from day one.

Conclusion - Cyprus Golden Visa 2025

The Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment Program provides a transparent, fast-track path to long-term EU residency, combining lifestyle, tax, and investment benefits.

With Schengen membership on the horizon and global programs tightening, now is the ideal time to secure your place.

At George Liasides LLC, our experienced legal team will manage the entire process - from application to approval - ensuring a seamless, compliant experience. Contact us to learn how we can help you obtain Cyprus Permanent Residency through Investment and secure your future in Europe.