Residency /
Citizenship by Investment
Citizenship by Investment
CYPRUS CITIZENSHIP / RESIDENCY BY INVESTMENT
EU Residency & Citizenship: Security. Opportunity. Peace of mind.
*** UPDATE: Cyprus Citizenship Investment Program Discontinued. The Cyprus Citizenship by Investment program was discontinued in 2020. The Cyprus permanent residency program is still operational. For an alternate citizenship by investment option please review the citizenship by investment program of Malta (EU) which is still active and currently accepting applicants. ***
Welcome! In an effort to stimulate the country's economy through job creation and capital Cyprus is offering foreign nationals investment programs that can lead to Cyprus permanent residency, and Cyprus citizenship after living in Cyprus in residency status for seven (7) years. The Cypriot passport is similar to the passports of Germany, France, or any other EU country; Cyprus passport holders may live, work or study in any country belonging to the European Union
There are no requirements to disclose the applicant's source of wealth or funds, there is no medical testing, and there are no language requirements.
International business executives, investors, and important persons who are active worldwide consider an alternative citizenship and passport a powerful tool for international tax planning and a safety net should the living conditions at home become unbearable.
Live, work or study in any of the EU countries
The immigration by investment programs of Cyprus provide for affluent persons of impeccable standing and repute, including their families, to receive Cyprus residency on the basis of an investment in Cyprus, and citizenship after 7 years in legal residency status. Once citizenship is granted, the applicant may live, work or study in any of the member countries of the European Union.Visa free travel to over 160 countries, including the USA
Cyprus citizenship (EU citizenship) offers full European Union benefits, including Schengen borderless travel and a United States visa waiver. This means visa-free travel to more than 160 countries in the world, including the USA, Canada, Middle East, Africa, Asia, and most countries in North, Central and South America.A better quality of life for the family
Cyprus is a safe country that enjoys a low cost of living index. The country has long been a vacation spot for Europeans and high net worth individuals who flock to the island for its sunny and warm climate year-round. Cyprus offers a modern infrastructure ranging from reliable phone and internet service to secure banking to well-established air and sea routes connecting the island to the European mainland and international destinations.Permanent residency can be obtained through a minimum investment of EUR 300,000.
Cyprus citizenship, i.e. the European passport, is available to applicants after seven years of residency status.
Cyprus Citizenship / Residency Program Details
The government of Cyprus is offering Cypriot permanent residency to international investors who contribute to the country's economic development.
Cyprus has been a full member of the European Union since 2004. The island is located in the north eastern Mediterranean Sea, at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. The strategic location of the island has played an important role in its development as a financial center.
The Cyprus permanent residency program allow applicants to live in Cyprus indefinitely and lifts traveling restrictions and elaborate visa requirements across the EU. Applicants may file for citizenship after 7 years in residency status. Cyprus citizenship grants the permission to live, work or study in any country of the European Union.
Qualified candidates include international business executives, investors, public figures, VIPs, and important persons who meet the minimum application requirements.
Application Requirements / Eligibility for Cyprus Residency
The minimum investment amount under the residency program is EUR 300,000. Investment options include:
1) A new residential property (house or apartment).
2) A new or existing commercial property (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
3) Share capital of an existing Cyprus company that employs at least five persons (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
4) Units of a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization investment fund (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
2) A new or existing commercial property (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
3) Share capital of an existing Cyprus company that employs at least five persons (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
4) Units of a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization investment fund (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
Further, an applicant must demonstrate financial self-sufficiency which is defined as an annual income of at least EUR 30,000 - which must emanate from sources outside of Cyprus in case of a residential property investment, and which may emanate from sources inside of Cyprus for investment into commercial property or share capital.
The applicants’ presence at the time of a property purchase is not mandatory and can be facilitated by legal representatives. If desired, citizenship may be applied for after 84 months (seven years) in permanent residency status, having spent at least 180 days per year in Cyprus.
Cyprus Immigration by Investment Benefits
With its warm and stable climate and convenient geographical position Cyprus is considered an attractive place for residence. At least 320 days of sunshine a year classify the island as one of the sunniest European locations.
Cyprus has recently been designated the 5th best relocation destination in the world by a report published by Knight Frank, a leading independent, global real estate consultancy firm. Ranked by key business and leisure indicators, Cyprus was the only European country alongside Switzerland to make it into the top five – ahead of London, Madrid and Monaco.
In addition to pleasant weather, the investment landscape in Cyprus is beneficial due to the island’s well-qualified labor force, attractive taxation and a reliable transport and telecommunications system. Cyprus ranks highly because of its favorable tax regime for new residents, particularly high net worth individuals.
Cyprus has a modern, free-market, service-based economy, with an effective and transparent regulatory and legal framework, giving international investors and businesses confidence to invest, grow and prosper.
Living in Cyprus
The Permanent Residency Permit grants a Non-EU national the right to permanently reside in Cyprus with no renewal requirements. Once granted, the Permanent Residency Permit covers the whole family: the main applicant and spouse, their parents and dependents up to the age of 28.Visa-Free Travel
Permanent residency lifts traveling restrictions and elaborate visa requirements across the EU, facilitating access to the Schengen zone. Visa-free travel covers a growing list of countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg and the Netherlands. For other countries, a simplified visa is available to permanent residency holders. (Note: Cyprus citizenship allows visa-free travel across all 26 "Schengen Area" countries.)Fast Track Application Processing
Fast track application procedure - all applications are reviewed by the Civil Registry and Migration Department and the Ministry of Interior grants final approval within 3-6 months from the date of filing. The application can be processed in the applicant’s absence and filed on their behalf.Favorable Tax Structure
Becoming a resident or citizen of Cyprus does not have any tax implications unless you reside in the country for over 183 days during the year. A Cyprus tax resident is exempt from tax on worldwide dividends and interest income for a period of 17 years. In addition to this, a Cyprus tax resident is exempt from tax on gains on disposable of securities. This is recognized as the most attractive personal income tax regimes in the onshore tax world.Free Movement of Persons
Cyprus citizens can travel freely, reside, study and work within the 28 countries of the EU, as well as Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein.Free Movement of Services
Cyprus citizens and their companies can offer services within EU member states without obstacles.Free Movement of Capital
Cyprus passport holders can transfer funds between EU member states, purchase property in any preferred EU country, and invest in any type of business venture.Free Movement of Goods
All goods produced in EU member states can be freely transferred between countries of the European Union.Attractive Tax System
Cyprus is an attractive financial center due to its highly favorable tax system and strategic location at the crossroads of three continents – Europe, Africa and Asia. Becoming a citizen of Cyprus does not have any tax implications unless the applicant moves to the country.High Standard of Living
Cyprus presents a high standard of living due to its access to reputable private schools, trustworthy private medical facilities and having among the lowest crime rates within Europe.Visa Free Travel
Cypriot passport holders do not require a visa to travel within the EU and also to travel to over 160 non-EU countries.Our Qualifications
Our associated attorneys are amongst the very few providers in Cyprus with actual experience preparing and submitting successful residency and citizenship applications. Our team is also well positioned to provide additional services for clients, including legal assistance, drafting and review of property acquisition agreements, organizing property valuations and any other related services.
The firm's extensive and well established network of property experts and real estate agents is readily available to assist applicants with locating and evaluating properties that match the applicant's investment objectives.
In addition to immigration law the firm is providing advisory services covering company formation, business restructuring, corporate & commercial law, dispute resolution, real estate, taxation, and merger & acquisitions law.
Services offered
Specific application-process related services include:-
• Advising you on your chances of success before filing your application.
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• Providing you with pre-immigration legal and tax advice.
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• Guiding you with the preparation of supporting documentation.
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• Finding local properties that satisfy the minimum investment requirements.
Additional Services
Other optional services the firm provides on an as-needed basis include:- Handling applications for work permits, and any type of residence permits;
- Legal and notarial representation on purchase, rental and re-sale of property in Cyprus;
- Reviews of your contract(s);
- Co-ordination of architectural surveys & planning applications;
- Referral to leading interior designers & turnkey providers for property conversions;
- Personal and corporate international tax planning;
- Dealing with all periodical tax matters including annual returns and tax payments;
- Drawing up of wills, international probate;
- Administration of estates, foundations, trusts;
- Advice on the formation & management of trading & holding companies in Cyprus;
- Yacht registration under the Cyprus flag;
- VAT planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are some of the reasons the Cyprus immigration by investment program is attracting so many international investors?
A: International business executives, investors, and important persons who are active worldwide consider an alternative residency and/or citizenship and passport a powerful tool for international tax planning and a safety net should the living conditions at home become unbearable.Applicants realize that the Cyprus citizenship provides several benefits, including:
• Visa free travel to over 160 countries, including the USA, Canada,
and Europe
• Retirement in a safe country with a warm climate
• A better education for the applicant’s children
• Children and grand children gain visa free travel and the right to live, work, or study in many countries
• A better quality of life for the family, including better healthcare and an unpolluted environment
• Relatively low real estate prices
• Personal security
• Tax advantages
• Freedom associated with having multiple passports
• Retirement in a safe country with a warm climate
• A better education for the applicant’s children
• Children and grand children gain visa free travel and the right to live, work, or study in many countries
• A better quality of life for the family, including better healthcare and an unpolluted environment
• Relatively low real estate prices
• Personal security
• Tax advantages
• Freedom associated with having multiple passports
Q: What is the minimum investment required to obtain the Cyprus residency?
A: The minimum investment amount is EUR 300,000. Investment options include:
1) A new residential property (house or apartment).
2) A new or existing commercial property (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
3) Share capital of an existing Cyprus company that employs at least five persons (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
4) Units of a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization investment fund (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
2) A new or existing commercial property (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
3) Share capital of an existing Cyprus company that employs at least five persons (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
4) Units of a Cyprus Collective Investment Organization investment fund (plus additional residential property purchase or rental).
Q: Will the Cyprus citizenship automatically grant me European citizenship?
A: Yes. Because Cyprus is a member of the European Union its citizens are automatically European citizens, which means you are allowed to live, work or study anywhere in Europe.Q: As a citizen, am I required to live in Cyprus?
A: No. Cyprus does not require you to be present or reside in Cyprus after approval of your citizenship application.Q: Does Cyprus allow me to keep my original citizenship?
A: Yes. There are no restrictions on dual citizenship in Cyprus.Q: How will new citizens be taxed?
A: Becoming a citizen of Cyprus does not have any tax implications unless you move to the country. Individuals are considered as a tax resident of Cyprus if they spend more than 183 days per year in Cyprus. Tax residents are taxed on all chargeable income that is accrued or derived from any source in Cyprus and abroad. Nontax residents are only taxed on certain income accrued or derived from a source in Cyprus. Any foreign taxes that are paid can be credited against personal income tax liability.Personal tax on income generated in Cyprus is taxed at progressive rates up to 35%. The corporate tax rate is 12.5%. VAT
Q: Can you help me find a real estate agent in Cyprus?
A: Yes. We are associated with licensed real estate agencies and developers in Cyprus and can help you find an ideal property that fulfills the program's real estate investment requirement.Our professional relationships in Cyprus guarantee to our clients a smooth, comprehensive service that includes identifying suitable properties, providing transport for property viewings, drafting/reviewing legal contracts, and/or liaising with local notaries and architects as needed.
When you decide on a property for purchase we can arrange for a Power of Attorney to appear on your behalf without the need for you to come again to Cyprus for the signature of any necessary contracts.
Q: Can you help me with finding a job?
A: Sorry, the immigration by investment programs were developed by the government to attract high net worth individuals, business owners, VIPs and other individuals with the financial means to support themselves and the local economy. Please note: New citizens do not need any work permission; they may work in any of the EU member countries. New residents may apply for a work permit, but would need to find their own employment opportunities.Q: Can you help me get a tourist or a student visa?
A: Sorry, we cannot assist with tourist or student visas. However, if your intent is to file an application for residency or citizenship we may assist with the initial travel visa to schedule an in-person appointment at our offices.Q: What are some of the most popular immigration by investment programs worldwide?
A: The Bulgaria Citizenship by Investment Program offers several investment options starting from EUR 257,000 plus fees for Bulgaria (EU) citizenship and passport after 5 years in residency status.The Cyprus Residency by Investment Program offers several investment options from EUR 300,000 for Cyprus (EU) permanent residency. Residents may apply for citizenship after 7 years in residency status.
The Greece Golden Visa allows non-EU applicants to file for Greece (EU) permanent residency by way of a EUR 250,000 investment in local real estate. The investor may file for Greek citizenship after 7 years of living in Greece at a minimum of 183 days per year.
The Malta Naturalisation for Exceptional Services by Direct Investment regulation provides the applicant with Malta (EU) residency and citizenship & passport for an investment in the amount of EUR 600,000 (36 months residency option) or EUR 750,000 (12 months residency option). Additional are a philanthropic donation, a property purchase or rental, and fees. For applicants who are only seeking Malta (tax) residency or Schengen travel benefits, options start at an annual recurring expense of EUR 15,000 plus property and fees.
The Monaco Residency / Citizenship Program offers Monaco permanent residency to applicants who can prove sufficient accommodations and financial self-sufficiency. The applicant may file for Monaco citizenship after 10 years of permanent residency.
The Portugal Golden Visa Residence Permit Program offers Portugal (EU) permanent residency for a investment (donation) starting from EUR 250,000. Investors may apply for Portugal citizenship after 5 years in residency status.
The Spain Golden Visa offers Spain (EU) permanent residency for a EUR 500,000 minimum investment in real estate, or a EUR 1 Million Euro asset transfer, or a 2 Million Euro securities investment, or the creation of a new government-approved business project. The investor may file for citizenship after 10 years in residency status.
Outside of the EU, citizenship by investment programs include those offered by Turkey, Vanuatu, Canada, the United States of America, and the Caribbean nations of Antigua & Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, Dominica, and St. Lucia:
Turkey offers the Turkish citizenship and passport for a property purchases of at least USD 400,000.
Vanuatu offers the Vanuatu citizenship and passport for a donation starting at USD 130,000.
Canada offers several residency by investment options, leading to citizenship if desired, starting at CAD 200,000.
The United States EB-5 Program leads to permanent residency status and citizenship in the United States for a minimum investment of USD 900,000 in a commercial enterprise in the U.S. that generates at least 10 jobs for Americans. After 5 years as a permanent resident the investor may apply for U.S. citizenship.
The Caribbean nations of Antigua & Barbuda, St. Kitts & Nevis, Grenada, Dominica, and St. Lucia offer citizenship programs requiring a real estate investment from USD 200,000 or a non-refundable donation of at least USD 100,000.
Q: What does "Schengen Area" mean?
A: The Cyprus citizenship allows you to travel without restrictions across the "Schengen Area" of the European Union. The Schengen Area is a group of 26 European countries that have abolished passport and immigration controls at their common borders. It functions as a single country for international travel purposes, with a common visa policy. Source: WikipediaPlease contact us using the contact form below for a detailed cost estimate or confidential consultation. Our associated attorneys are ready to assist you with attaining your investment objectives and answer any questions you might have about the Cyprus Residency / Citizenship by Investment programs.
Contact Us for a Free Consultation
We will reply to your inquiry by email within one hour!
Alternatively, we would be happy to arrange an in-person meeting at the offices in Cyprus at a time and date convenient for you.
Our team of associates in Cyprus includes immigration specialists working exclusively on citizenship & residence matters and will stand by your side throughout the entire application process, from start to finish. The team will work with you until your residence or citizenship application has been approved and you have received your residence certificate or Cyprus (EU) passport.
Do you have any questions? Use our contact form to receive a reply today.
Zenturo Ltd.
Residency & Citizenship by Investment Programs WorldwideCyprus Office: Limassol, Nicosia
394A / 395A, Triq il-Kbira San Guzepp
Santa Venera, SVR 1016
Malta
Phone: +356 9950 5515
WhatsApp: +356 9991 4125
Telegram: +356 9991 4125
WeChat: ZenturoSupport
Skype: Zenturo Ltd. Support
Service Inquiries: service@zenturo.zenturo.com
General Counsel: legal@zenturo.zenturo.com
Company Registration No.: C-39472
VAT ID: MT-18142026
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