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Cyprus permanent residency through property: how it works

By Neil Davies. Updated 2026-10-01.

Cyprus grants permanent residency to non-EU buyers who invest at least €300,000 plus VAT in a new home bought from a developer and can show a secure income from abroad. It is known as the fast-track permit under Regulation 6(2) of the Aliens and Immigration Regulations. UK citizens, as non-EU nationals since Brexit, can apply.

The investment

At least €300,000, plus VAT, in a new residential property sold for the first time by a developer, with at least €300,000 (excluding VAT) actually paid when you apply. Resale homes do not qualify for this route. You can buy up to two homes from the same developer to reach the total. Commercial property, shares in a Cypriot company or units in a Cypriot investment fund are alternatives.

The money must come from your own account abroad and be paid to the seller's account in Cyprus. You must keep the investment for as long as you hold the permit.

The income test

You must show a secure annual income from abroad of at least €50,000, plus €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child. These levels have applied since 2 May 2023; older guides quoting €30,000 are out of date.

Who it covers

Your spouse and children under 18. Unmarried children aged 18 to 25 who are studying abroad and financially dependent on you can make their own application under your permit.

Keeping the permit

The permit lasts as long as you keep the investment and meet the conditions. You must show each year that you still hold the investment and have health insurance, and provide a criminal record certificate every three years. You and your family must take up residence in Cyprus within one year of approval, or the permit lapses. Ask your lawyer about the current rules on how often you need to visit after that.

What it is not

Permanent residency lets you live in Cyprus. It is not citizenship, and it does not give you the right to live or work in other EU countries. Cyprus closed its citizenship-by-investment programme in 2020.

How long it takes

The immigration department aims to decide applications in about two months; in practice, allow two to six months once the purchase contract is in place and the documents are complete. You will need proof of income, bank statements, a criminal record certificate, health insurance, marriage and birth certificates for family members, and copies of passports.

Which of our homes qualify

Every Cyprus home we list is a new build from Pafilia Property Developers. Those priced at €300,000 or more plus VAT meet the investment threshold on price; check with your lawyer that the specific purchase meets every condition before you rely on it.

Before you apply

Use an immigration lawyer in Cyprus, and keep the residency plan separate from the decision about which home to buy: choose a home you want to own, not just one that hits the threshold. This guide reflects the position on 1 October 2026 and is not legal advice.

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