IMPORTANT UPDATE: Cyprus closed its citizenship by investment program on 1 November 2020. The Cyprus Golden Visa is now available for permanent residency. The Malta citizenship program offers a direct investment route to a Maltese passport. This guide provides information on acquiring a Cyprus passport and becoming a Cypriot citizen.

Obtaining a Cyprus Passport: Opening the Doors to Europe

Cyprus holds full membership in the European Union (EU), granting Cypriot citizens the valuable status of EU citizenship. With a Cypriot passport in hand, individuals gain access to remarkable healthcare and education systems within the country, while also enjoying the freedom to travel and reside across all member states of the EU.

Many inquire about the duration of full Cypriot citizenship through the Cypriot citizenship and residency programs. Fortunately, the good news is that you and your family can relish in the benefits of full citizenship for a lifetime. This exceptional privilege extends beyond your own lifetime, as it can be passed down to future generations, allowing them to acquire Cypriot citizenship through descent.

Acquiring Cypriot Citizenship: Gateway to Europe

Acquiring Cypriot citizenship opens the doors to numerous benefits and opportunities in Europe. There are several pathways through which non-Cypriots can obtain a Cypriot passport, depending on their individual circumstances and eligibility criteria. In this article, we will explore the different routes to Cypriot citizenship and provide a step-by-step guide on the application process.

Citizenship by Birth/Descent

If you were born in Cyprus and have at least one Cypriot parent, you automatically become a citizen of Cyprus by birth. Similarly, individuals born abroad with at least one Cypriot parent can obtain citizenship through the rights of family descent. To establish their eligibility, they must present their birth certificate along with their parent's certificate as evidence.

Citizenship by Naturalization

Foreign individuals who are at least 18 years old can apply for Cypriot citizenship through the process of naturalization. The eligibility requirements for this route include a clean criminal record and a total legal residence in Cyprus for seven years, equivalent to 2,555 days, prior to the application date. Additionally, the applicant must have resided continuously in Cyprus for at least one year immediately preceding the submission of their citizenship application. However, if the applicant is a child or parent of a Cypriot citizen, the required residency period is reduced to five years instead of seven.

Citizenship by Marriage

Marriage to a Cypriot citizen can also lead to acquiring Cypriot citizenship. According to the Civil Registry and Migration Department of Cyprus, individuals married to Cypriot citizens may be eligible for citizenship after three years of marriage and two years of residency in the Republic. For applicants residing outside of Cyprus, their spouse must provide a letter accompanying the application, explaining the reasons for requesting Cypriot citizenship. In both cases, a marriage certificate must be presented to the relevant authorities at the Civil Registry and Migration Department.

Application Process for a Cypriot Passport

To apply for a Cypriot passport, individuals must meet the eligibility criteria of being at least 18 years old and having a clean criminal record. The application process varies depending on the chosen route to citizenship. In general, the following steps are involved:

• Submitting the Application: Individuals need to complete a Cypriot passport issuance application form, which is available in Greek, Turkish, or English. The completed form should be submitted in person at the consular office or Cypriot Embassy. This allows for the collection of biometric data, including fingerprints and necessary photos, by the consular officer.
• Required Documentation: The following documents are typically required when applying for Cypriot citizenship:
  • Completed application form (in Greek/Turkish/English)
  • Valid passport
  • Proof of a clean criminal record
  • Confirmation that the applicant does not own any frozen property under the jurisdiction of the EU
  • Two passport photographs
  • Curriculum vitae (CV) in English, signed by the applicant
  • Birth certificate, authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cyprus embassy
  • Marriage certificate, stamped and certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cyprus embassy (if applicable)
• Application Review: After submitting the application and required documentation, the authorities will review the application to ensure compliance with the eligibility criteria and document authenticity.
• Interview and Verification: In some cases, applicants may be called for an interview or additional verification process to assess their eligibility further.
• Approval and Issuance: Upon successful completion of the application process, including the verification stage, the applicant will receive approval for Cypriot citizenship. A Cypriot passport will then be issued, granting all the associated rights and benefits.

Cyprus Residency by Investment: The Golden Visa

The Cyprus Golden Visa program offers a pathway to residency and eventual citizenship for qualifying individuals who make investments in the country. This scheme allows foreign investors to obtain a renewable residency permit by investing in various sectors of the Republic's economy, such as real estate, capital shares, or other eligible investment options. By participating in the Cyprus Golden Visa program, individuals gain full EU rights and become eligible for Cypriot citizenship after seven years.

Conclusion

Acquiring Cypriot citizenship provides access to the advantages and opportunities available in Europe. Whether through birth/descent, naturalization, or marriage, there are several routes individuals can take to obtain a Cypriot passport. By following the application process and meeting the eligibility criteria, individuals can navigate the pathway to Cypriot citizenship. Additionally, the Cyprus Golden Visa program offers an alternative route to residency and citizenship for foreign investors. By understanding the options available and fulfilling the necessary requirements, individuals can unlock the gateway to Europe through Cypriot citizenship.

The Significance of a Cyprus Passport: Unlocking Boundless Opportunities

Passports serve as valuable tools, opening doors to diverse opportunities and enabling travel between different destinations across the globe. However, the strength of a passport varies based on the country it represents.

This esteemed index not only takes into account the number of countries a passport holder can visit without a visa but also factors in the potential for business endeavors and the overall quality of life offered by each country.

As per the latest rankings, the Cypriot passport holds the 43rd position on this index, highlighting the extent of visa-free travel options, as well as the potential for investment and the overall living standards associated with Cyprus.

Advantages and Privileges of the Cypriot Passport

• Visa-free travel: One of the major advantages of holding a Cypriot passport is the ability to travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival to numerous countries worldwide. As a citizen of Cyprus, individuals have the opportunity to travel within the 27 states that make up the European Union without a visa. This benefit extends beyond the EU, as Cypriot passport holders also enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to over 170 countries, including popular travel destinations such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and many more. This allows for greater ease and convenience in international travel, whether for leisure, business, or other purposes.
• Residence and work in the European Union: Cypriot passport holders have the right to live, work, and study in any of the 27 member states of the European Union. This provides access to a larger job market and opens up opportunities for career growth and international mobility within the EU. Additionally, Cypriot citizens can benefit from the free movement of goods, services, and capital within the EU, which promotes trade and economic integration.
• Education and healthcare benefits: Cypriot citizens have access to high-quality education and healthcare services within Cyprus and other EU member states. In terms of education, Cypriot passport holders can study in any public university in Cyprus for free, which includes undergraduate programs. Furthermore, as part of the European Union, degrees and qualifications obtained in Cyprus are recognized and accepted throughout the EU, facilitating academic and professional mobility.

In terms of healthcare, Cypriot citizens can avail themselves of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which entitles them to receive necessary healthcare services in any EU member state under the same conditions and at similar costs as the local citizens. This ensures access to healthcare while traveling or residing in other EU countries.

• Business and investment opportunities: Cyprus offers a favorable business environment and tax regime, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and multinational corporations. Holding a Cypriot passport allows individuals to take advantage of these opportunities, including low corporate tax rates, a robust financial sector, and access to EU markets. Additionally, Cyprus has entered into various double tax treaties with numerous countries, providing further advantages for international business and investment activities.
• Social security and retirement benefits: Cypriot citizens are entitled to various social security benefits, including pensions and healthcare coverage. As part of the social security scheme in Cyprus, citizens contribute to their pension fund, and upon reaching retirement age, they receive a pension through this scheme. This ensures financial security during retirement years.
• Family reunification: Cypriot citizens have the privilege of bringing their immediate family members, including spouses, children, and dependent parents, to live with them in Cyprus or any other EU member state. This facilitates family reunification and provides a stable and secure environment for the well-being of the entire family.

In conclusion, the Cypriot passport offers numerous advantages and privileges, including visa-free travel to many countries, the right to live and work in the European Union, access to quality education and healthcare services, favorable business and investment opportunities, social security benefits, and the ability to bring family members together. These benefits contribute to a higher quality of life, increased mobility, and enhanced opportunities for Cypriot passport holders.

Assessing the Value of a Cyprus Passport: Is it Worth Pursuing?

With its myriad benefits, obtaining a Cypriot passport proves to be a compelling choice. Renowned for granting visa-free access to an impressive array of 170 countries and boasting a superior quality of life, this passport opens doors to a world of possibilities. The Cypriot passport not only holds a prominent position on the esteemed passport power index but also endows its holders with unparalleled freedom to seize opportunities. Moreover, in times of adversity, it provides a vital safety net, offering the security and reassurance of a contingency plan.

FAQ

How can I obtain a Cyprus passport?

Obtaining a Cyprus passport is possible through various means, including birth, naturalization, marriage, or descent. If you choose the naturalization route, you may consider applying for permanent residency under the Cyprus Golden Visa scheme, which offers a return on your investment.

Is the Cyprus passport considered strong?

The strength of a passport is determined by the number of visa-free destinations it provides access to. According to the Global Passport Index, Cyprus holds the 7th position, indicating that Cypriot passport holders can visit numerous countries without requiring a visa, as well as obtain visas on arrival or through electronic travel authorization.

What is the application process for a Cyprus passport?

To apply for a Cyprus passport, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria, such as being over 18 years old and having a clean criminal record. The specific process you need to follow will depend on the route you choose to obtain citizenship as a foreign individual.

How strong is the Cyprus passport in terms of travel access?

The Cypriot passport is considered quite strong in terms of travel access. Currently ranked at the 43rd position on the Global Passport Index, it provides its holders with visa-free access to 170 countries.

Is the Cyprus passport recognized as a European passport?

Yes, the Cyprus passport is recognized as a European passport. Cyprus is a member state of the European Union, which means that any Cypriot citizen is automatically considered an EU citizen as well.

How many countries can I visit with a Cyprus passport?

With a Cypriot passport, you can travel to 170 countries without requiring a visa.