Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment (Regulation 6(2))

What is the Regulation 6(2) permanent residency?

It is Cyprus's fast-track permanent residency programme for non-EU nationals, granted in exchange for a qualifying investment of at least €300,000. It gives you and your family the right to live in Cyprus indefinitely.

Unlike a temporary residence permit, this status does not need annual renewal. It is the most popular route for non-EU individuals and families who want a stable EU base without taking up local employment.

The headline figures: €300,000+ qualifying investment (excluding VAT) · secured annual income of roughly €50,000, plus more per dependant · examination may take around six months.

Who is it for?

This route is for non-EU nationals who can make a €300,000 investment and demonstrate stable foreign income. Applicants often include retirees, investors, business owners and families seeking a stable Cyprus residency base.

EU, EEA and Swiss citizens do not use this route. They register directly instead (see EU citizens).

What are the requirements?

You must make a qualifying €300,000 investment, prove secured annual income from abroad, hold a clean criminal record, and maintain the investment. The income threshold rises for each family member.

  • Qualifying investment (one of): a new residential property of at least €300,000 (excl. VAT); or €300,000 in commercial property, a Cyprus company's share capital with local staff, or units in a Cyprus investment fund.
  • Secured annual income: roughly €50,000 per year from abroad, increased by about €15,000 for a spouse and €10,000 for each dependent child. Income source must be outside Cyprus (for the property route).
  • Clean criminal record from your country of residence.
  • Health insurance covering Cyprus.
  • Maintain the investment and visit Cyprus at least once every two years.
Thresholds and qualifying investment categories are set by the Council of Ministers and change periodically. Your partner law firm confirms the exact figures that apply to your application.

What is the process and timeline?

After you complete the qualifying investment, your lawyer submits the application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department. A complete file may take around six months to be examined, but timing varies.

  1. Select and reserve a qualifying property or investment.
  2. Open a Cyprus bank account and transfer funds from abroad.
  3. Gather documents: passports, income evidence, clean criminal record, health insurance, marriage/birth certificates (apostilled).
  4. Submit the Reg. 6(2) application with proof of investment.
  5. Biometrics and issuance of the permanent residency permit.

How much does it cost?

ItemIndicative amount
Qualifying investmentfrom €300,000 (excl. VAT)
Government application fee~€500 per applicant
Legal & professional feesvaries by firm
Health insurancevaries by age & cover

Figures are indicative. A licensed professional gives you an exact quote based on your circumstances.

Frequently asked questions

How much do I need to invest?
At least €300,000 (excluding VAT) in qualifying Cyprus real estate or another approved investment, plus secured annual income of around €50,000 (more for dependants).
How long does it take?
A complete Regulation 6(2) application may take around six months to be examined. Actual timing depends on the file and department workloads.
Can I work in Cyprus with this permit?
No. It does not grant the right to local employment. You can own a Cyprus company and receive dividends or other permitted income from it.
Can my family be included?
Yes. Your spouse and financially dependent children can be included; the secured-income requirement increases for each.
Could I lose the status?
The permit does not expire, but can be revoked if you fail to visit Cyprus at least once every two years or do not maintain the qualifying investment.
Does it lead to citizenship?
It can contribute to the lawful residence period required for naturalisation. See our citizenship guide.

Ask about permanent residency

Tell the assistant your nationality, budget and timeline. It will explain whether Regulation 6(2) appears relevant to you.