How to Apply for Cyprus’s Golden Visa (2025)

What is Cyprus’s Golden Visa?

Cyprus’s Golden Visa, officially the Permanent Residence Program under Regulation 6(2), offers non-EU nationals permanent residency through a €300,000 investment. As of March 6, 2025, it’s one of Europe’s fastest and most affordable residency-by-investment options, granting lifetime residency in just 2-3 months. Benefits include visa-free Schengen travel (90 days in 180, with potential full access if Cyprus joins Schengen by late 2025), no minimum stay requirement beyond one visit every 2 years, and a path to citizenship after 7-8 years.

This guide covers the 2025 requirements, investment options, costs, and application process. Ready to enjoy Cyprus’s Mediterranean lifestyle and tax perks? Let’s dive in!

Who Qualifies for Cyprus’s Golden Visa?

Non-EU nationals over 18 with sufficient funds can apply. Key requirements for 2025:

Core Requirements

• Minimum investment of €300,000 (plus VAT if applicable).
• Secure annual income from abroad: €50,000 (main applicant), +€15,000 (spouse), +€10,000 per child.
• Clean criminal record (past 10 years, home country, and residence).
• Valid health insurance covering Cyprus.
• No EU-sanctioned property freezes or employment in Cyprus (except as a company director).

Eligible Dependents

• Spouse (included in income calculation).
• Children under 18, or 18-25 if unmarried students and financially dependent.
• Adult children (18+) with separate €300,000 investments each.

Investment Options in 2025

Cyprus offers flexible investment pathways, all requiring €300,000 minimum:

• Residential Property: Up to 2 new homes (first sale) totaling €300,000 + VAT (5-19%). Funds must come from abroad.
• Commercial Property: Up to 2 properties (new or resale, e.g., offices, shops) totaling €300,000. No source restriction.
• Company Shares: €300,000 in a Cyprus-registered company with 5+ employees and physical presence.
• Investment Funds: €300,000 in Cyprus-regulated funds (AIF, AIFLNP, RAIF).

Note: Investments must be maintained to retain residency.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The process takes 2-3 months and can be mostly remote. Steps for 2025:

1. Select Investment: Choose and secure your €300,000 investment (e.g., sign property contract).
2. Gather Documents: Passport, income proof (e.g., tax returns), criminal record, insurance, investment evidence.
3. Submit Application: File via a lawyer to the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia (€500 fee, €70 per dependent).
4. Approval: Receive approval in 2-3 months after due diligence.
5. Biometrics: Visit Cyprus once within 12 months for fingerprints and photos.
6. Maintain: Visit once every 2 years; submit annual income proof and triennial criminal records.

Pro Tip: Hire a Cyprus lawyer (€1,000-€3,000) to handle remote filing and ensure compliance.

Costs of Cyprus’s Golden Visa

Total costs depend on investment and family size (2025 rates):

• Investment: €300,000 + VAT (5-19% for residential property).
• Application Fees: €500 (main applicant), €70 per dependent.
• Health Insurance: €500-€1,000/year (family plan).
• Legal Fees: €1,000-€5,000 (optional).
• Total (Solo, Residential): ~€360,000+ (incl. 19% VAT).

Expert Tips for Success

• Use a Lawyer: Simplifies remote filing and reduces rejection risk (€1,000-€3,000).
• Pre-Legalize Docs: Apostille/translate records early (1-2 weeks).
• Residential Option: Most popular—opt for new homes for rental income potential.
• Schengen Watch: Apply before late 2025; Schengen entry may raise demand and costs.
• Prove Income: Show €60,000+ annually for a stronger solo application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References & Resources

• Cyprus Migration Department - Official program details.
• Global Citizen Solutions - Investment insights.
• Visa Index - 2025 updates.