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?
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.