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Residence by Investment in Cyprus is a pathway for non-EU nationals to obtain lawful residence by making qualifying investments. In practice, the process is national in scope but local factors in Famagusta-such as property opportunities in Paralimni, Ayia Napa, and surrounding towns-can influence timelines and due diligence. The civil registry and migration framework is administered by the Ministry of Interior through the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD).
In Famagusta, as in other districts, you will typically work with a Cypriot solicitor or attorney to prepare and submit application materials, coordinate with banks and property vendors, and address local verification steps. While the program focuses on investment criteria, you must also meet integrity, health, and security checks as part of the due diligence process. Recent years have seen tighter rules and more robust verification across the island.
The aim of Residence by Investment is to provide a lawful status tied to sustained investment activity, rather than a temporary, purely business visa. Applicants should plan for a multi-stage process: document gathering, investment completion, application submission, and post-approval compliance with ongoing conditions.
Cap 105 forms the core statutory framework for residence permits in Cyprus, including permanent residence pathways linked to investment. The law has been amended multiple times to tighten due diligence, clarify eligibility criteria, and align with EU standards. In practice, applicants in Famagusta interact with CRMD under this statute for residency decisions.
This act provides a mechanism for naturalisation by exception for high-net-worth individuals, typically linked to significant economic contributions. While the primary aim is citizenship by exception, many related residency programs operate alongside this statute, and changes in 60(I)/2016 have influenced how investment-based residency interacts with potential naturalisation routes. The law has seen amendments to reflect evolving policy and EU expectations.
Permanent Residence by Investment regulations operate under Cap 105 and related ministerial orders. These regulations outline qualifying investment categories, minimum investment thresholds, and supporting documents. In recent years, the regulations have been revised to improve due diligence and to harmonise Cyprus practice with EU expectations, including cross-border funds verification and ongoing compliance requirements.
According to the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Cyprus, permanent residence by investment is processed under the Aliens and Immigration Law Cap 105 and related regulations. CRMD Permanent Residence page
The Government of Cyprus maintains official guidance for residents and investors on its portal, including information for permit holders and ongoing obligations. Official Government Portal
Residence by Investment is a program allowing non-EU nationals to obtain residence status through qualifying investments in Cyprus. It is administered by the Civil Registry and Migration Department under Cap 105 and related regulations.
Typical timelines span several months from document submission to approval, depending on complexity and due diligence. Real estate-based routes may require longer due diligence on the property and funds.
Property ownership is a common route, but not the only option. Some investment pathways require real estate or bank deposits as qualifying criteria, determined by CRMD guidelines.
Qualifying options generally include real estate acquisitions and certain long-term investments through Cyprus entities. Exact criteria are defined in the Permanent Residence by Investment regulations and CRMD guidance.
Investment thresholds vary by program and changes in regulations. A lawyer can confirm current minimums and eligible asset types at the time you apply.
Yes, dependents such as spouses and children may qualify, subject to age and relationship criteria. A solicitor can map out the eligible family members and documentation needed.
Yes, non-EU applicants follow a distinct path under Cap 105 with enhanced due diligence, documentation, and residency conditions compared with EU citizens.
Residence by Investment grants residence status. Citizenship by Investment confers a passport or citizenship, typically requiring a higher investment and stricter due diligence, and is often subject to separate programs.
Presence is not always required at all stages, but personal attendance may be beneficial for certain verifications, interviews, or document authentication steps.
CRMD uses due diligence checks and third-party verification to confirm funds origin. Full, transparent documentation is essential to avoid delays.
You will receive confirmation and a residence permit. You must satisfy ongoing conditions, such as maintaining the investment and meeting reporting requirements, to preserve status.
Changes to the investment or disposal of qualifying assets can affect your residency status. Consult a lawyer before making changes to understand consequences and options.
Official government guidance on residency by investment, eligibility, and required documents.
Central hub for Cyprus laws, policies, and citizen information, including residency initiatives.
Professional body providing lawyer directories and guidance on local practice for residence by investment matters.
