The Republic of Cyprus provides an accelerated pathway to citizenship by naturalisation for highly skilled third-country nationals employed in qualifying companies, pursuant to Article 111B(2) of the Civil Registry Laws. This framework is further regulated by the Decision of the Council of Ministers No. 92.018 dated 15 October 2021, establishing the national strategy for attracting and expanding business activity in Cyprus.
Eligible Individuals
The fast-track naturalisation scheme applies to individuals employed in companies falling within the following categories:
· Businesses of foreign interests operating in Cyprus with independent, duly established offices
· Cypriot shipping companies
· Cypriot high-technology and innovation companies (including sectors such as aerospace, IT, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, biomedical equipment, R&D, and advanced manufacturing)
· Cypriot pharmaceutical, biogenetics, and biotechnology companies
· Companies registered in the Register of Foreign Companies of the Department of Population and Immigration
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
An applicant may qualify for Cypriot citizenship by naturalisation under this scheme, provided that, at both the time of application and examination, they are employed in a qualifying company in a highly skilled position and cumulatively satisfy the following conditions:
A. Residence Requirements
· Continuous and lawful residence in Cyprus for 12 months immediately prior to the application submission.
· During the preceding 10 years, lawful residence in Cyprus for a cumulative period of:
i. 4 years, or
ii. 3 years, provided the applicant demonstrates a higher level of Greek language proficiency
Absences not exceeding 90 days per year are not considered interruptions.
Additional Requirements
In addition to the above, applicants are required to meet certain supporting criteria set by the authorities, relating to their integration, living conditions, and overall eligibility.
Definition of Highly Skilled Employees
Eligible applicants must fall within one of the following categories:
1. Holders of residence permits employed by companies of foreign interests as:
I. Directors
II. Specialists
III. Key personnel
2. Individuals (regardless of residence status) who:
I. Earn a minimum gross monthly salary of €2,500, and
II. Hold a university degree or equivalent qualifications, or at least two years of relevant professional experience
Family Members
Applications may also extend to the following family members, either concurrently with or subsequent to the main applicant, provided they meet the applicable residence and language requirements:
· Spouse or registered partner
· Dependent adult children with disabilities
Government Fees
· €500 application submission fee
· Two official stamps of €8.54 each
· €500 issuance fee upon approval of the application
How We Can Assist
Our firm provides specialised legal services in immigration and citizenship matters, offering end-to-end guidance throughout the naturalisation process under the fast-track scheme for highly skilled professionals. We assist with eligibility assessments, document preparation, certification and translations, submission of applications and representation before the competent authorities.
If you are considering applying for Cypriot citizenship under this expedited route, we invite you to contact our team at info@larcolaw.com.cy or call us at +357 24250024. One of our legal experts will respond promptly to assess your case and guide you through the process.