CYPRUS RESIDENCY

Perhaps you’re thinking of buying a property in Cyprus because you want to start a new life - to enjoy some of the enviable lifestyle all year round. It’s a big decision but official procedures are far easier since the Republic of Cyprus became a full member of the EU in 2004. All EU nationals are now allowed to live and work freely in Cyprus. EU nationals don't require a work permit, but they do need a residence permit if they plan to stay in the country for more than 90 days. Residence permits are issued for a five year period and are usually automatically renewed on request.

Your lawyer can help you obtain a residence permit or you may apply for one independently. Application forms for residence permits can be obtained from the Ministry of the Interior (the Civil Registry and Migration Department) or at Police Stations in Nicosia , Larnaca, Limassol and Paphos (Aliens and Immigration Department) and this is also where you submit your application with the relevant documents (see below).

You will need:

1) Your valid EU passport or identity card with a photocopy.

2) If relevant, confirmation of a job offer from an employer or a certificate of employment stamped by the Labour Department of the Ministry of Labour and Social Insurance, stating the duration and type of the work that you will be doing. You can start work while your application is being processed.

3) If you don't have a job offer, you should be able to show evidence of financial self-sufficiency, such as bank statements and evidence of medical insurance cover.

4) Four recent passport sized photographs.

5) Birth certificate and, if relevant, marriage certificate.

6) Evidence of your residence, such as a sale or rental contract.

7) Medical insurance documents