HomeTemporary Residence in Cyprus
Cyprus attracts foreigners with its mild climate, favourable living conditions, and opportunities for work and study. To stay in the country longer than the established period without the need to leave, it is necessary to obtain a Cyprus temporary residence permit. This status allows one to legally reside on the island but does not grant the right to permanent residence or citizenship.
What is a Temporary Residence Permit in Cyprus?
Cyprus temporary residence permit, known as Pink Slip, provides foreigners with the opportunity to reside in the country legally for an extended period. It is issued to individuals who wish to stay on the island longer than the standard period allowed by a visa. The document is renewed annually and does not grant the right to work if it is issued on a visitor or student basis.
What are the categories of temporary residence permits in Cyprus?
A guest residence permit is intended for those who do not plan to work in Cyprus but wish to stay in the country longer than the standard period of stay. This status is usually obtained by pensioners, property owners, and individuals with a stable income from abroad.
A student residence permit is issued to foreigners enrolled in accredited educational institutions in Cyprus. This status allows them to stay in the country during their studies and can be extended for the duration of the educational process.
A work residence permit is issued to foreigners who have signed a contract with a Cypriot employer. It is issued upon obtaining a work permit and can be extended upon the renewal of the employment contract.
What are the benefits of a temporary residence permit in Cyprus?
The main advantage of the temporary residence permit status is the ability to reside in Cyprus longer than the period specified in the visa, without the need for its extension. Another important benefit is that the applicant’s family members can submit separate applications to obtain a similar status as dependents.
However, this residence permit does not grant the right to work, and the applicant must confirm that their income comes from abroad. Additionally, it should be taken into account that being absent from Cyprus for more than three consecutive months will result in the automatic cancellation of the permit. Renewal is possible annually, but not for more than four years.
How to obtain a temporary residence permit in Cyprus?
Before submitting an application for a temporary residence permit, it is necessary to prepare a set of documents, including a foreign passport, proof of address, medical insurance, and evidence of financial stability. For each category of residence permit, additional documents may be required, such as a rental agreement, a letter from an educational institution, or an employment contract. The application is submitted to the migration service of Cyprus, where it is reviewed over several months. After approval, the applicant is issued a Pink Slip, which must be renewed annually.
Required Documents for a Cyprus Temporary Residence Permit
For temporary residence in Cyprus, it is necessary to collect and submit a number of documents confirming your financial solvency, place of residence, and legal grounds for staying in the country. It is important to prepare all the required certificates in advance to avoid delays in the application review.
A completed and signed MVIS3 form for each family member.
A medical insurance policy valid in Cyprus. You can use international insurance or arrange a new one locally. A medical certificate will also be required, confirming the absence of tuberculosis, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, as well as syphilis, issued no later than four months ago.
Documents confirming residence in Cyprus: a rental agreement or a property purchase agreement. The rental agreement must be concluded for at least one year. A certified copy of the agreement with the tax office stamp is also required.
A bank guarantee issued by a Cypriot bank for each family member. The amount depends on the applicant’s citizenship:
- 550 euros for citizens of Eastern Europe and Russia;
- 350 euros for natives from the Middle East;
- 850 euros for citizens of Asian and American countries;
The process of registration takes from one to two days. Citizens of a number of countries, including Norway, the United Kingdom, Switzerland, and Singapore, are exempt from the requirement to provide this document.
A bank statement confirming the transfer of 15,000 euros from abroad to an account in a Cypriot bank. If the funds are brought in cash, documentary proof of their declaration at the airport is required.
Documents confirming a stable income from abroad, such as salary certificates, deposit statements or pensions. The income must cover living expenses:
- 20,000 euros for a single applicant
- 25,000 euros for a married couple
- 30,000 euros for a family with one child
A copy of the passport with personal details, validity period, and previous visas.
Marriage certificate, if the applicant is entering on a visitor visa for family reunification. The document must be translated into English and either apostilled or certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Embassy of Cyprus.
Birth certificates of children (if necessary) with translation into English and an apostille or certification at the embassy.
A document confirming the enrolment of children in a Cypriot school.
A certificate of no criminal record issued by the country of residence within the last six months.
Additional documents depending on the purpose of stay:
- Marriage or birth certificate for obtaining a visitor visa (family reunion);
- Work permit for a work visa;
- Document on enrolment in an educational institution for a student visa.
Providing a complete set of documents significantly increases the chances of successfully obtaining a Cyprus temporary residence permit. It is important to monitor the validity of certificates and attestations, as expired documents may lead to refusal or delays in processing the application. If you have any questions regarding the preparation of documents for obtaining a temporary residence permit, it is better to consult specialists in advance to avoid possible difficulties.
How to Submit a Cyprus Temporary Residence Permit Application
The application is submitted to the Cyprus migration service in person or through a representative. During the appointment, the applicant must provide a complete set of documents and pay the established fee. After submitting the application, a temporary confirmation is issued, allowing legal stay in the country during the application review period.
Application Processing Time for a Residence Permit in Cyprus
The processing time for an application for a Cypriot Pink Slip (temporary residence permit) may vary, but in most cases takes several months. During this period, the applicant has the right to remain on the territory of Cyprus, even if their visa has expired. After approval, a temporary residence permit card is issued.
Processing times for the application. On average, the review process takes about six months. In some cases, approval may be obtained faster — approximately within three months. However, under certain circumstances, the timeframe may extend to eight months.
Waiting period. During the processing of the application, applicants may legally stay in Cyprus. This allows them to remain in the country without the need to extend their visa or leave the territory of Cyprus until receiving an official response.
The review process. Applications are processed by the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Nicosia. If necessary, the applicant may be invited to provide additional information. If the application is approved, the authorities notify the applicant about it.
Obtaining a resident card. After approval, a temporary residence permit card is issued. The immigration service informs the applicant when and where they can collect it. Although the process may take a long time, it is important to remain patient and be prepared to provide additional documents if requested.
Requirements for Temporary Residence Permit in Cyprus
To obtain this permit, the applicant must meet a number of criteria. First and foremost, it is necessary to confirm the presence of a stable income from abroad, which will allow covering living expenses. For a family of three, this figure ranges from €25,000 to €30,000. It is also required to provide documents confirming the availability of residential property in Cyprus — either rented or purchased.
Restrictions temporary residence permit
Holders of this permit cannot leave the territory of Cyprus for more than three consecutive months, otherwise, it will be annulled. Furthermore, a temporary residence permit does not grant the right to work unless the applicant has obtained a separate permit. This status is available exclusively to third-country nationals who are not part of the EU and is intended for those who wish to extend their stay. The validity period is limited but can be renewed annually for up to four years.
Contact Our Lawyers for Obtaining a Temporary Residence in Cyprus
Obtaining a temporary residence permit can be a complex process requiring the collection of numerous documents. Our specialists will help you properly prepare the application, avoid mistakes, and speed up the process of obtaining the permit. By contacting us, you will receive qualified assistance and support at all stages of the process.
Where Can You Apply for a Temporary Residence Permit in Cyprus?
The application is submitted to the Department of Civil Registry and Migration of Cyprus or to local branches of the migration service. Certain categories of applicants may submit documents through an online system or via accredited representatives. It is important to schedule an appointment in advance and prepare all necessary documents.
What Are the Cyprus Government Fees for a Temporary Residence Permit?
Registration for obtaining a temporary residence permit costs 70 euros per family member and is paid only upon the first application submission.
What Are the Restrictions for Temporary Residence in Cyprus?
Owners of a temporary residence permit do not have the right to engage in employment if their status does not allow for work. Some categories of applicants must prove financial independence and cannot rely on state benefits. A temporary residence permit does not grant the right to citizenship or permanent residence without additional grounds.
How to Extend Your Temporary Residence Permit in Cyprus?
The extension of a residence permit is carried out by submitting a new application to the migration service. Documents must be submitted before the expiration of the current permit. The applicant needs to provide updated proof of financial solvency, medical insurance, and other supporting documents.
