Immigration Permits for Investors – Cyprus Golden Visa

30 Common Questions Asked

Q1: Who can apply for the Cyprus golden visa?

A: Third-country nationals (non-EU citizens) who invest in Cyprus.

Q2: What is the legal basis for this permit?

A: Regulation 6(2) of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations.

Q3: How much do I need to invest to qualify?

A: At least €300,000 (+ VAT for new residential property).

Q4: Can I invest in any type of property or business?

A: You can invest in one of the approved categories below.

Q5: What are my investment options?

• (A) Residential Property: New house/apartment – €300,000 + VAT
• (B) Commercial Property: Offices, shops, hotels – €300,000
• (C) Cyprus Company: €300,000 investment + 5 employees
• (D) Investment Funds: €300,000 in AIF, AIFLNP, or RAIF

Q6: Where must my investment money come from?

A: Funds must come from abroad. Some cases allow partial Cyprus income.

Q7: Can investment come from a company account abroad?

A: Only if you and/or your spouse are sole shareholders.

Q8: Can I sell my investment later?

A: Only if replaced with equal or higher value.

Q9: Can I rent out the property?

• Residential: Rent one unit (if two purchased)
• Commercial: No restrictions

Q10: Do I need a stable income?

A: Yes – €50,000/year + €15,000 (spouse) + €10,000 per child.

Q11: Is income gross or net?

A: Gross income.

Q12: How can I prove my income?

• Tax return declaration
• Certified accountant statement

Q13: Required personal documents?

• Clean criminal record
• Health insurance
• Non-employment declaration

Q14: Can I buy from my own company?

A: Yes, if criteria are met.

Q15: Can I be a shareholder/director?

A: Yes, including unpaid director roles.

Q16: Do I need accommodation?

A: Yes, unless investing in residential property.

Q17: Who can I include?

• Spouse
• Children under 18

Q18: Adult children (18–25)?

A: Yes, if dependent students.

Q19: Adult children over 25?

A: Requires increased investment (€600k+).

Q20: How do I apply?

A: Through Civil Registry and Migration Department.

Q21: Can someone apply for me?

A: Yes, via authorized representative.

Q22: Application fees?

• €500 per application
• €70 per person (ARC)

Q23: Processing time?

A: Around 10 months.

Q24: Travel requirement?

A: Visit once in first year, then every 2 years.

Q25: Health system eligibility?

A: Eligible after 12 months residence.

Q26: Citizenship eligibility?

A: After 8 years lawful stay.

Q27: Permit validity?

A: Lifetime (card renewed every 10 years).

Q28: Do I need to stay in Cyprus?

A: No, but visit yearly.

Q29: Can I lose my permit?

• Sell investment without replacement
• Stay outside Cyprus 2+ years
• Fail compliance requirements

Q30: Can I use a bank loan?

A: No – must use own funds from abroad.