How to move to Cyprus and get a residence permit in 2025
In short: Cyprus is one of the most convenient and affordable ways to move to Europe.
It has a mild climate, a high standard of living and flexible residency programs.
Below is a complete guide to all the ways to obtain Cyprus residency.
Why more and more people choose Cyprus
Cyprus is not only a sunny island in the Mediterranean Sea, but also a strategic point
for living, investment and business development. More than 300 sunny days a year,
a high level of security, a stable economy and a growing real estate market
make the country one of the most attractive destinations for relocation in Europe.
- Mild climate and comfortable living conditions
- Developed infrastructure and quality healthcare
- Transparent and understandable residency and permanent residency programs
- Opportunity to invest in a growing real estate market
Main ways to obtain a residence permit in Cyprus
In 2025, there are several legal and convenient ways to obtain a residence permit in
Cyprus. Each option suits different goals: life, investment, business or study.
1. Real estate investment
The most popular and fastest way is buying real estate worth from €300,000.
This method allows you to get permanent residence not only for you, but also for your
whole family
Main requirements:
- Buying property from a developer for at least €300,000 + VAT
-
Proof of income from abroad
(from €50,000 per year + €15,000 for wife and 10,000 foe each child) - Funds must come from abroad
- Residence permit is approved within 2–3 months
- Permanent residence is not required — just visit Cyprus once every two years
This method is perfect for those who want to combine real estate investment
with obtaining European residency.
2. Category F program—for financially independent
Category F is an option for those who want to live in Cyprus without running a business
or working. It is suitable for retirees, freelancers and investors with passive income.
- Proof of stable income (~€30,000 per year + ~€5,000 for each family member)
- Availability of housing (rented or purchased)
- Prohibition of employment in Cyprus
Processing time — from 6 to 12 months.
3. Business immigration
Do you want to open a company in Europe? Cyprus is one of the most convenient options.
The island is a recognized international business hub with a developed infrastructure
and status as an entry point to the EU market.
- Registering a company in Cyprus
- Applying for a work or business visa
- Opportunity to obtain a residence permit for the whole family
This method is especially popular among entrepreneurs who want to gain Cyprus residency
and enter the European market.
4. Student visa
Another way to move is to enroll in a university or college. Students receive a
temporary residence permit for the period of study and can then change it to a work
or investment status.
5. Family reunification
If your spouse, parents or children already have Cyprus residency
or citizenship, you can move through the family reunification process.
This is the easiest and most reliable way.
Benefits of Cyprus residency
- Opportunity to live and develop in one of the most comfortable countries in Europe
- Easy travel and further path to citizenship
- Access to a growing real estate market and lucrative investments
- High quality of medical care, education, and life
- Simple and transparent rules for obtaining residency and permanent residency



