- Investment Threshold: A minimum investment of €300,000 is required in one of four categories: new residential property, commercial real estate, shares in a Cypriot company, or investment funds.
- Income Requirement: Applicants must prove a secure annual income of at least €50,000 from abroad, with additional funds required for a spouse and children.
- Fast Processing: The Cyprus Golden Visa is one of the fastest in Europe, with an application examination period of approximately 2-6 months.
- Lifetime Residency: The permit is permanent and does not require renewal. A physical visit to Cyprus is only required once every two years.
- Family Inclusion: The permit covers the main applicant, their spouse, and financially dependent children up to the age of 25.
- No Employment Allowed: Holders of this permit cannot be employed in Cyprus, but they can earn income as shareholders or as paid directors in the company they invest in.
- Path to Citizenship: After 8 years of legal residence, you can become eligible to apply for Cypriot (EU) citizenship.
Cyprus, the gem of the Mediterranean, continues to shine as a premier destination for global investors seeking a secure future within the European Union. In 2025, the Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment Programme, also known as the “Cyprus Golden Visa” or “Category 6(2) Fast Track”, offers non-EU nationals an unparalleled opportunity to gain lifetime residency through strategic investment.
This programme is renowned as one of Europe’s most efficient pathways to permanent residence. At IBCCS TAX, we leverage our years of experience and deep knowledge of the Cypriot market to guide you through every step, ensuring a seamless and successful journey.
Why Choose the Cyprus Golden Visa (Residency by Investment)?
Cyprus isn’t just an island; it’s a vibrant EU member state offering a blend of high quality of life, a strategic location, and a robust, investor-friendly environment. Here’s why the programme stands out:
- Swift Approval Process: Applications are renowned for their efficiency, with an examination period of approximately 2 to 6 months.
- Permanent & Flexible Residency: Gain the right to reside in Cyprus for life. You only need to visit Cyprus once every two years to maintain your status, offering significant flexibility for global citizens.
- Comprehensive Family Inclusion: The permit covers the main applicant, their spouse, and financially dependent student children up to the age of 25.
- Exceptional Quality of Life: Enjoy over 300 days of sunshine, low crime rates, high-quality international schools, and excellent healthcare.
- Pathway to EU Citizenship: After eight years of legal residency, you may be eligible to apply for Cypriot citizenship by naturalisation (subject to conditions).
Cyprus: Your Gateway to Europe
Cyprus is a full and thriving member state of the European Union, a critical status that underpins the value of its Permanent Residency Programme. While the country is not yet a full member of the Schengen Area, its application is currently under active consideration, positioning it for increased travel freedom in the near future. Even now, holding a Cypriot residency permit allows for easy, unrestricted travel to and from Cyprus. For global investors seeking long-term security and easier movement across the continent, this status offers a clear strategic advantage and a pathway toward future, potentially borderless, travel across the Schengen zone.
Cyprus Residency by Investment Pathways: The €300,000 Requirement
To qualify, you must make a minimum investment of €300,000. The funds must be proven to have been transferred to Cyprus from abroad.
As an advisory firm, IBCCS TAX does not act as a real estate agent. Instead, we collaborate closely with a network of trusted and reputable developers across Cyprus, providing you with impartial guidance to find the investment that best suits your goals. Our long-standing experience on the island ensures you have access to the best projects.
1. New Residential Property:
Purchase one or two new residential properties (house or apartment) directly from a development company for at least €300,000. A reduced VAT rate of 5% may apply.
• Key Condition: For this option, your declared annual income must derive solely from abroad.
2. Commercial Real Estate:
Invest in properties such as offices, shops, or hotels. Resale properties are permitted in this category.
• Key Condition: Your income may originate from sources within Cyprus.
3. Shares in a Cyprus Company:
Invest €300,000 in the share capital of a Cyprus-based company that has a physical presence and employs at least five people.
• Key Condition: Your income may originate from sources within Cyprus.
4. Units in Cyprus Investment Funds:
Invest €300,000 in units of a Cyprus Investment Organisation of Collective Investments (e.g., AIF).
• Key Condition: Your income may originate from sources within Cyprus.
Important Note: Selling your investment without an immediate replacement of equal or greater value will lead to the cancellation of your residency permit.
Residency by Investment Eligibility: Financial and Personal Requirements
Beyond the investment, applicants must meet these criteria:
- Secure Annual Income: A proven annual income of at least €50,000. This increases by €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child. The spouse’s income can be included in the total.
- Clean Criminal Record: A clean criminal record from your country of origin and residence is mandatory.
- Non-Employment Declaration: You and your spouse must confirm they do not intend to undertake employment in Cyprus (though you may earn dividend income as a shareholder or act as a paid director in the company you have invested in).
- Health Insurance: A valid health insurance policy covering care in Cyprus.
- Proof of Accommodation: If not investing in a residential property, you must provide proof of a place to live in Cyprus (e.g., a rental agreement).
Read more about other Citizenship & Residency by Investment Programs
Our Streamlined Application Process & Services for Cyprus Residency by Investment
Navigating the application requires careful planning and execution. At IBCCS TAX, we provide end-to-end support, managing all aspects of your investment residency application to ensure a successful outcome. Our comprehensive support includes:
- Initial Consultation and Investment Guidance: We assess your circumstances and advise on the most suitable investment option, leveraging our network of trusted developers.
- Complete Process Management: We handle the entire procedure, from assisting with document preparation and due diligence to professional application submission and active monitoring with the authorities.
- Post-Approval and Relocation Support: We guide you through the final steps, including the biometrics visit, the collection of your permanent residency cards, and assistance with tax registration and bank account opening.
Maximising Your Benefits: Cyprus Tax Advantages
As a leading advisory firm, we ensure our clients understand all potential benefits of relocating to Cyprus.
- Non-Domicile Status: Benefit from a 17-year exemption from tax on worldwide dividend and passive interest income.
- Low Corporate Tax: A corporate tax rate of just 12.5% on profits.
- Tax Exemption for Director’s Remuneration: While you cannot be a typical employee, an investor who chooses to invest in a Cypriot company can act as a paid director. If that director’s salary exceeds €55,000 annually, it may qualify for a 50% income tax exemption for 17 years.
- No Inheritance or Gift Tax: Ensure your wealth is passed on to the next generation efficiently.
Your Trusted Partner for Cyprus Residency by Investment
Choosing the right partner is the most critical decision in this journey. IBCCS TAX is a dedicated advisory firm with extensive experience in Cypriot immigration and tax law. We provide:
- Expert, Impartial Consultancy: We assess your needs and conduct thorough due diligence on all aspects of the process.
- Seamless Process Management: We guide you through the entire application, coordinating with developers, lawyers, and government authorities to ensure every detail is handled correctly.
- Full Relocation Support: Beyond the residency permit, we can assist with everything from opening bank accounts to registering for tax residency.
Navigating the Cyprus Permanent Residency Programme requires careful planning and local expertise. As your dedicated advisors, IBCCS TAX leverages its deep market knowledge and long-standing relationships with reputable, pre-vetted local developers to guide you through the entire journey, ensuring your investment is both compliant and secure.
Ready to explore your future in Cyprus? Contact IBCCS TAX today for a confidential consultation and let our deep market knowledge work for you.
Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Do I need to live in Cyprus to maintain my residency?No. To maintain your permanent residency permit, you only need to visit Cyprus for at least one day every two years. This makes the programme ideal for investors who do not wish to relocate full-time.
- Is my investment recoverable?
Yes. You are required to maintain the investment to keep your residency permit. However, you can sell your initial investment at any time, provided you immediately reinvest the same amount into another qualifying investment. - Can my spouse and I combine our incomes to meet the €50,000 requirement?
Yes, the income of the spouse can be included in the calculation to meet the total annual income requirement. - What happens if I sell my property after a few years?
If you sell your investment property, you must immediately replace it with another qualifying investment of at least €300,000 to avoid the cancellation of your permit. The team at IBCCS TAX can advise on the correct procedure to ensure a seamless transition. - Is knowledge of Greek or English required to apply?
No, there is no language requirement for the permanent residency application itself. English is widely spoken in Cyprus, which facilitates business and daily life. A basic language test is only required later if you decide to apply for Cypriot citizenship. - What kind of support does IBCCS TAX provide?
IBCCS TAX acts as your dedicated advisor throughout the entire process. We assist with selecting a compliant investment through our network of trusted developers, handle all document preparation and submission, manage the application process, and provide post-approval support, including help with collecting your residency cards and relocation services.