Cyprus is an increasingly attractive destination for individuals and families seeking residency in a safe, sunny, and tax-friendly EU member state. Whether you're considering relocating for lifestyle, tax optimisation, or access to European markets, obtaining Cypriot residency offers numerous benefits. In this article, we explain the process of becoming a Cypriot resident, how long you need to spend in the country, and how your family can also gain residency.

Why Choose Cyprus

 

Cyprus combines a Mediterranean lifestyle with one of the most advantageous tax systems in Europe. As an English-speaking, business-friendly country, it is particularly popular among entrepreneurs, digital nomads, retirees, and high-net-worth individuals.

Key attractions include:

• Low crime rates and high quality of life
• Excellent healthcare and education systems
• Strategic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa
• A transparent and efficient legal system based on English common law

Types of Residency in Cyprus

 

There are multiple pathways to obtain residency in Cyprus, but the most common are:

1. Permanent Residency (Category F / Fast Track)

This is suitable for third-country nationals (non-EU) and includes two routes:

• Normal Track: Requires evidence of a secure annual income (around €40,000 for a family of four).
• Fast Track Route (Regulation 6.2): Requires a €300,000 investment in property and proof of a secure annual income from abroad.

2. Temporary Residence (Pink Slip)

This is ideal for those staying more than 90 days but not permanently. It's renewable annually and useful for extended visits or while awaiting permanent residency.

3. Residency for EU/EEA Nationals

EU/EEA citizens can move freely to Cyprus. They must register with the immigration authorities within four months and obtain a "Yellow Slip".

Days required to Maintain Residency

 

To qualify as a Cyprus tax resident, you need to satisfy one of the following conditions:

1. 183-Day Rule

Spend at least 183 days in Cyprus in a calendar year with no requirement for economic activity.

2. 60-Day Rule (introduced in 2017)

You can be a tax resident by spending just 60 days in Cyprus if you:

• Do not reside in any other country for more than 183 days
• Are not tax resident elsewhere
• Conduct business or are employed in Cyprus, or are a director of a company that is tax resident in Cyprus
• Maintain a permanent residence in Cyprus (owned or rented)

This is ideal for entrepreneurs and remote workers looking for tax benefits without having to spend most of the year in one place.

Tax Benefits of Cyprus Residency 

 

Cyprus offers one of the most competitive tax regimes in Europe:

• No tax on dividends for non-domiciled residents for 17 years
• No inheritance tax
• Low income tax: The first €19,500 of income is tax-free; rates start at 20% above this
• Corporate tax of 12.5% — one of the lowest in the EU
• Profits from trading in securities (stocks, bonds, etc.) are exempt from tax
• Foreign pensions can be taxed at a flat rate of 5%

The non-domicile rule makes Cyprus especially attractive for individuals relocating from high-tax jurisdictions.

Including your family 

 

Under most residency schemes:

• Spouses and dependent children (under 18 or up to 25 if in full-time education and unmarried) can be included in the application.
• In the Fast Track scheme, dependents can be granted residency under the same property investment, provided the income requirements are met.

For families with EU passports, the registration process is even simpler, allowing for seamless integration into Cypriot society.

Conclusion