Immigration Law at Cyprus
Cyprus has a well-established immigration system that is aligned with European Union (EU) regulations, as it has been a member of the EU since 2004. The country's immigration policies cover a wide range of areas, including visas, residence permits, work permits, family reunification, and naturalization. Below is an overview of Cyprus’ immigration laws:
1. Visa and Entry Requirements
Short Stay Visas (Schengen Visa): Cyprus is not part of the Schengen Area, so it issues its own national visa for short stays (up to 90 days). However, citizens of many countries (including the EU/EEA countries and others) can enter Cyprus without a visa for short stays.
Visa Requirements: Citizens of non-EU countries who wish to enter Cyprus for tourism, business, or other short-term purposes generally require a visa. The visa must be applied for before traveling, and the applicant needs to show the purpose of the visit, sufficient funds, and proof of accommodation.
2. Residence Permits
Temporary Residence Permits: For non-EU nationals wishing to live in Cyprus for more than 90 days, they must apply for a temporary residence permit. This permit is typically issued for a specific purpose, such as employment, studies, or family reunification.
Types of Residence Permits:
Employment: A residence permit for employment is issued to non-EU nationals who have secured a job offer in Cyprus. Employers must apply for the permit on behalf of the employee.
Self-Employment: Individuals planning to start their own business or work as a freelancer in Cyprus may also apply for a residence permit.
Study: Students from outside the EU may apply for a residence permit if they are enrolled in a recognized educational institution in Cyprus.
3. Work Permits
Non-EU nationals who want to work in Cyprus need a work permit, which is usually tied to the employer. The employer must prove that no suitable candidates from Cyprus or the EU are available for the position.
Work Permit Categories:
General Employment: For individuals employed in various industries.
Specialist or Highly Skilled Employment: For those with specific skills or qualifications in fields where there is a shortage of local labor.
Seasonal Employment: Typically for workers in sectors like tourism or agriculture.
4. Permanent Residency
Cyprus Permanent Residency Program: Cyprus offers a fast-track route to permanent residency for non-EU nationals who invest in the country. This program is designed for individuals who invest a certain amount in real estate, business, or other sectors that contribute to the Cypriot economy.
Residence for Investors: Individuals who make significant investments (such as purchasing property, creating jobs, or investing in Cyprus-based businesses) can qualify for permanent residency.
Criteria for Permanent Residency: The investor must meet financial requirements, have sufficient income to support themselves and their dependents, and pass background checks.
5. Citizenship and Naturalization
Citizenship by Investment: Cyprus offers a citizenship-by-investment program, which allows foreign nationals to gain Cypriot citizenship through substantial investment in real estate or business in the country. This program requires an investment of at least €2 million in real estate and an additional €150,000 donation to the government.
Naturalization: Foreign nationals who have resided in Cyprus for a certain number of years can apply for citizenship through naturalization. The typical requirement is 7 years of continuous residence in Cyprus, although the period can be shorter for individuals married to Cypriot citizens (e.g., 3 years of marriage and living in Cyprus).
Citizenship by Birth: A person born in Cyprus to a Cypriot parent automatically obtains Cypriot citizenship, regardless of whether the child is born to a Cypriot father or mother.
6. Family Reunification
Family Members of Residents and Citizens: Non-EU nationals who are family members (spouse, minor children, or dependent parents) of legal residents or citizens of Cyprus can apply for family reunification and obtain residence permits. The sponsor in Cyprus needs to show they have sufficient income to support their family members.
7. Asylum and Refugee Law
Cyprus follows international law regarding refugees and asylum seekers, which is in line with EU regulations. Individuals seeking asylum must apply at the Ministry of Interior, and they will go through an asylum procedure to determine their eligibility for protection.
Asylum Process: The Ministry of the Interior processes asylum applications, and applicants are given temporary protection while their applications are being assessed.
International Protection: If granted asylum, individuals may receive refugee status and the right to reside and work in Cyprus.
8. Deportation and Expulsion
Cyprus has the authority to deport individuals who do not comply with immigration regulations, such as overstaying visas or failing to meet the requirements of their residence permits. Deportation can also occur for criminal activity or violations of public order.
9. Dual Nationality
Cyprus allows dual nationality, meaning that individuals can hold both Cypriot and another country’s nationality. This is common for those who obtain Cypriot citizenship through marriage, naturalization, or investment.
10. Brexit and the UK Nationals in Cyprus
Following Brexit, UK nationals are no longer considered EU citizens. However, Cyprus has established agreements to allow UK nationals to continue living and working in Cyprus after the UK left the EU. UK nationals who were legally residing in Cyprus before Brexit can continue their residence, but new UK nationals must follow the same rules as non-EU citizens for residence and work permits.
11. Permanent Residency Through Real Estate Investment
Fast-Track Permanent Residency: This program allows individuals who purchase property worth €300,000 or more to apply for permanent residency. Applicants must also meet other requirements, such as proving they have sufficient income to support themselves and their families.
12. Cyprus Immigration in the Context of EU Law
As an EU member state, Cyprus adheres to EU rules on free movement of people. Citizens of other EU member states do not need a visa or work permit to live or work in Cyprus. Similarly, Cypriot citizens have the right to live and work in other EU countries.
Post-Brexit: Following the UK’s departure from the EU, UK nationals are no longer EU citizens, and UK nationals must comply with non-EU rules when applying for residence or work permits in Cyprus.
Key Agencies Involved:
Civil Registry and Migration Department: Handles applications for residency, work permits, and other immigration-related services.
Ministry of the Interior: Oversees asylum applications, citizenship, and immigration policies.
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