Cyprus Citizenship by Investment Program

The Cypriot government suspended this citizenship by investment program in November 2020.

Must visit Cyprus

8 months processing time

Minimum investment of €2,200,000tribution of $200,000

AS SEEN IN

Cyprus Citizenship by Investment Program

The Cypriot government suspended this citizenship by investment program in November 2020.

Must visit Cyprus

8 months processing time

Minimum investment of €2,200,000tribution of $200,000

AS SEEN IN

Cyprus Citizenship by Investment Program

The Cypriot government suspended this citizenship by investment program in November 2020.

AS SEEN IN

Cyprus Citizenship by Investment Program

The Cypriot government suspended this citizenship by investment program in November 2020.

Must visit Cyprus

8 months processing time

Minimum investment of €2,200,000tribution of $200,000

AS SEEN IN

Name: Republic of Cyprus

Capital: Nicosia

Population: 1,267,925

Language: English, Greek, Turkish

Flag: 🇨🇾

Timezone: GMT+3 (EEST)

Coordinates: 35.16°N 33.43°W

Currency: Euro (EUR)

Cyprus passport
Saint Kitts and Nevis passport index

14

th

Cyprus Passport Index

The Cypriot passport ranks top 15 in the 2024 CitizenX Passport Index Ranking.

Saint Kitts and Nevis passport index

14

th

Cyprus Passport Index

The Cypriot passport ranks top 15 in the 2024 CitizenX Passport Index Ranking.

Saint Kitts and Nevis passport index

14

th

Cyprus Passport Index

The Cypriot passport ranks top 15 in the 2024 CitizenX Passport Index Ranking.

Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free access

181

Visa-free travel destinations

Travel without visa or receive a visa on arrival (VOA) or electronic travel authority (ETA).

Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free access

181

Visa-free travel destinations

Travel without visa or receive a visa on arrival (VOA) or electronic travel authority (ETA).

Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free access

181

Visa-free travel destinations

Travel without visa or receive a visa on arrival (VOA) or electronic travel authority (ETA).

Cyprus

100%

EU countries reach

Enhance your mobility options with free access to the European Union, Switzerland, and the UK.

Cyprus

100%

EU countries reach

Enhance your mobility options with free access to the European Union, Switzerland, and the UK.

Cyprus

100%

EU countries reach

Enhance your mobility options with free access to the European Union, Switzerland, and the UK.

Cypriot citizenship unlocks one of the best European passports.

Live and work in Europe without restrictions and enjoy visa-free travel within the EU member states and the Schengen Area; as well as Singapore, Canada, and Switzerland.

Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free map
Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free map
Saint Kitts and Nevis visa-free map
Saint Kitts and Nevis citizen of the Commowealth
Saint Kitts and Nevis citizen of the Commowealth
Saint Kitts and Nevis citizen of the Commowealth

Cyprus allows dual citizenship for you and your family. Without restrictions.

Cyprus has no restrictions on dual citizenship and doesn't ban any nationality, making it the perfect destination as a non-EU foreign investor.

Cyprus has no restrictions on dual citizenship and doesn't ban any nationality, making it the perfect destination as a non-EU foreign investor.

Cyprus residency enhances your asset protection and tax optimization.

As a Cypriot citizen, you can get permanent residency without a residence permit.

The tax regime in Cyprus is favorable for high-net-worth individuals that want to protect their wealth using different financial assets.

As a Cypriot citizen, you can get permanent residency without a residence permit.

The tax regime in Cyprus is favorable for high-net-worth individuals that want to protect their wealth using different financial assets.

Cyprus CBI
Cyprus CBI
Cyprus CBI
Cyprus citizenship
Cyprus citizenship
Cyprus citizenship

Cyprus is the perfect Mediterranean haven.

The pristine beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and Mediterranean climate make Cyprus the ideal destination for your new home country.

Cyprus is also one of the safest countries in Europe and has a great healthcare system.

The pristine beaches, stunning natural landscapes, and Mediterranean climate make Cyprus the ideal destination for your new home country.

Cyprus is also one of the safest countries in Europe and has a great healthcare system.

Requirements and eligibility to get Cyprus Citizenship by Investment

Being > 18 years old.

Being > 18 years old.

Having a clean criminal and immigration record.

Having a clean criminal and immigration record.

Being in good health.

Being in good health.

Owning a residential property of at least €500,000.

Owning a residential property of at least €500,000.

Donating €75,000 to the Foundation for Research and Innovation.

Donating €75,000 to the Foundation for Research and Innovation.

As a main applicant, you can include in your citizenship application family members such as your spouse, dependent children under 18, and adult children aged 18-28 who are financially dependent on you.

As a main applicant, you can include in your citizenship application family members such as your spouse, dependent children under 18, and adult children aged 18-28 who are financially dependent on you.

Investment Options to Acquire Cypriot Citizenship

Cypriot companies

Invest at least €2,000,000 in the purchase, setup, or participation in Cypriot companies or businesses

Cypriot companies

Invest at least €2,000,000 in the purchase, setup, or participation in Cypriot companies or businesses

Real estate

Invest at least €2,000,000 to €2,500,000 in the purchase or construction of real estate, land development, or infrastructure projects

Real estate

Invest at least €2,000,000 to €2,500,000 in the purchase or construction of real estate, land development, or infrastructure projects

Alternative Investment Funds

Invest at least €2,000,000 in alternative investment funds or financial assets of Cypriot companies or organizations.

Alternative Investment Funds

Invest at least €2,000,000 in alternative investment funds or financial assets of Cypriot companies or organizations.

Combination of Investments

Combine investments in government bonds with other options.

Combination of Investments

Combine investments in government bonds with other options.

Alternative Paths to Cypriot Citizenship

The Cyprus Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers several benefits, but it also has some significant drawbacks. Here are the main pros and cons to consider:

The Cyprus Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers several benefits, but it also has some significant drawbacks. Here are the main pros and cons to consider:

1

Citizenship by naturalization in Cyprus


Foreign nationals can start the citizenship application process after 5 years of residence in Cyprus if they are EU nationals or 7 years if they are third-country nationals. The applicant must have a clean criminal record and demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.

Citizenship by naturalization in Cyprus


Foreign nationals can start the citizenship application process after 5 years of residence in Cyprus if they are EU nationals or 7 years if they are third-country nationals. The applicant must have a clean criminal record and demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.

2

Citizenship by descent in Cyprus


Individuals with Cypriot roots can apply for citizenship based on their ancestry. This includes those born before 16 August 1960 with a Cypriot parent, those born abroad after 16 August 1960 with at least one Cypriot parent, and those born before 16 August 1960 with a Cypriot parent who was entitled to acquire Cypriot citizenship by registration due to Cypriot origin.

Citizenship by descent in Cyprus


Individuals with Cypriot roots can apply for citizenship based on their ancestry. This includes those born before 16 August 1960 with a Cypriot parent, those born abroad after 16 August 1960 with at least one Cypriot parent, and those born before 16 August 1960 with a Cypriot parent who was entitled to acquire Cypriot citizenship by registration due to Cypriot origin.

3

Citizenship by marriage in Cyprus


Foreign nationals who have been married to a Cypriot citizen for at least 3 years and have resided in Cyprus for at least 2 years (or permanently abroad) can apply for citizenship. The application requires a declaration of harmonious cohabitation and a statement of cohabitation from the local authority.

Citizenship by marriage in Cyprus


Foreign nationals who have been married to a Cypriot citizen for at least 3 years and have resided in Cyprus for at least 2 years (or permanently abroad) can apply for citizenship. The application requires a declaration of harmonious cohabitation and a statement of cohabitation from the local authority.

Pros and Cons of Getting Cyprus Citizenship By Investment

The Cyprus Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers several benefits, but it also has some significant drawbacks. Here are the main pros and cons to consider:

The Cyprus Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program offers several benefits, but it also has some significant drawbacks. Here are the main pros and cons to consider:

Benefits

Drawbacks and risks

Fastest EU Citizenship: Cyprus offers the fastest route to EU citizenship, with a processing time of 6-8 months

High Investment Requirements: The program requires a significant investment of at least €2,200,000, which can be a substantial financial burden

Visa-free Travel: A Cypriot passport grants visa-free travel to over 170 countries, including Canada, Australia, and Singapore

Risk of Real Estate Depreciation: The CBI program is heavily reliant on real estate investments, which can be vulnerable to market fluctuations and potential depreciation if the EU were to shut down the program

Access to All EU Countries: As a Cypriot citizen, you can live, work, and study in any of the 28 European Economic Area countries

Dependence on Foreign Capital: Cyprus's economy is heavily reliant on foreign capital, which can create economic instability if the CBI program were to be discontinued

High Standard of Living: Cyprus offers a high standard of living, with advanced infrastructure, international schools, luxury shopping, and good healthcare and education standards

Limited Market for Properties: If the EU were to shut down the CBI program, there could be a limited market for selling properties, potentially reducing their value

Attractive Tax Regime: Cyprus has a favorable tax setting, with no tax on dividends, royalties, or interest received/earned outside of Cyprus, and a corporate tax rate of 12.5%

Alternative Options Available: Permanent residency in Cyprus can be obtained for a lower investment, which may be a more attractive option for some individuals

Cypriot Citizenship by Investment Program vs Caribbean CBIs

The Cypriot Citizenship by Investment Program and Caribbean Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs have distinct differences. Here are some key points to consider:

The Cypriot Citizenship by Investment Program and Caribbean Citizenship by Investment (CBI) programs have distinct differences. Here are some key points to consider:

Caribbean CBIs

Cyprus CBI

Cost

The minimum investment amount for Caribbean CBIs varies by country and citizenship route, but generally starts from USD 200,000.

The minimum investment amount for the Cypriot Citizenship by Investment Program is EUR 2 million, which includes a EUR 750,000 property purchase and EUR 1.25 million investment in a business or other approved investments.

Benefits

Caribbean citizenship allows visa-free travel to a variable number of countries depending on the specific program, but it is generally lower than in Cyprus.

Cypriot citizenship allows visa-free travel to over 180 countries, including the Schengen Area, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

Processing

Streamlined processes taking 3-6 months, with Dominica known for being the fastest.

The Cypriot Citizenship by Investment Program typically takes around 6-12 months to process

Business opportunities

The Caribbean Islands offer business opportunities in sectors like tourism, real estate, and entrepreneurship, but the economic stability and job market may vary by country

Cyprus is a member of the European Union and offers a strong business environment, with opportunities in various sectors such as finance, tourism, and technology

Cyprus passport
Cyprus passport

Become a citizen of Cyprus.

This citizenship by investment program was suspended in 2020.

Cyprus passport
Cyprus passport

Become a citizen of Cyprus.

This citizenship by investment program was suspended in 2020.

Cyprus passport
Cyprus passport

Become a citizen of Cyprus.

This citizenship by investment program was suspended in 2020.

Cyprus passport
Cyprus passport

Become a citizen of Cyprus.

This citizenship by investment program was suspended in 2020.

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CitizenX is a technology service providing legal information and access to self-service tools. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have unique considerations, please talk with a lawyer in your jurisdiction before proceeding.

CitizenX™

Bahnhofstrasse 20
6300 Zug, Switzerland


The CitizenX logo and the CitizenX rose are registered trademarks of the company.

CitizenX is a technology service providing legal information and access to self-service tools. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have unique considerations, please talk with a lawyer in your jurisdiction before proceeding.

CitizenX™

Bahnhofstrasse 20
6300 Zug, Switzerland


The CitizenX logo and the CitizenX rose are registered trademarks of the company.

CitizenX is a technology service providing legal information and access to self-service tools. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have unique considerations, please talk with a lawyer in your jurisdiction before proceeding.

CitizenX™

Bahnhofstrasse 20
6300 Zug, Switzerland


The CitizenX logo and the CitizenX rose are registered trademarks of the company.

CitizenX is a technology service providing legal information and access to self-service tools. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal, tax, or accounting advice. If you have unique considerations, please talk with a lawyer in your jurisdiction before proceeding.