Cypriot citizenship by investment

Cypriot citizenship by investment refers to the process through which foreign individuals can acquire citizenship in Cyprus by making a significant financial investment in the country. The program, officially known as the Cyprus Investment Programme (CIP), was introduced by the government of Cyprus in 2013 as a means to attract foreign investment and stimulate economic growth.

How to get citizenship by investment in Cyprus

Eligibility criteria for Cypriot citizenship by investment may include the following:

1. Minimum investment. The program requires a minimum investment amount, which typically includes a combination of real estate, government bonds, bank deposits, or other approved investment options. The minimum investment amount can vary but has historically been set at €2 million.
2. Residence requirement. Applicants must hold a residence permit in Cyprus for at least six months before obtaining citizenship.
3. Clean criminal record. Applicants must have a clean criminal record and be considered of good character.
4. Residence in Cyprus. Investors must possess a permanent privately-owned residence in Cyprus, valued at a minimum of €500,000 (excluding VAT).
5. Donations. Additionally, applicants are required to make certain donations to specific government funds, such as the Cyprus Land Development Corporation and the Research and Innovation Foundation.

If you are considering pursuing Cypriot citizenship through investment, it is strongly recommended that you consult with a qualified immigration lawyer or professional specializing in citizenship by investment programs.

Documentation and Application

To apply for Cypriot citizenship through investment, you will need to gather the necessary documentation and submit an application. Here is a general outline of the documentation and application process:

1. Prepare your personal documents, including a valid passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), and any other identification or supporting documents required by the authorities.
2. Gather the necessary financial documents to demonstrate that you meet the minimum investment requirements. This may include bank statements, proof of funds, investment certificates, property purchase or lease agreements, and any other relevant financial documentation.
3. Obtain a clean criminal record certificate from your country of residence and any other countries where you have resided in the past. Some jurisdictions may require you to provide additional supporting documents, such as character references.
4. Obtain the official application forms from the relevant authorities, such as the Ministry of Interior or the Cyprus Investment Promotion Agency (CIPA).
5. Due diligence and background checks. This is to assess your suitability for Cypriot citizenship and verify the authenticity of the provided documents.
6. Obtain the necessary proof of your investments, such as investment certificates, property purchase or lease agreements, bank statements, or other relevant documentation to confirm that you have met the investment requirements.
7. Submit the application.
8. The authorities will review your application, conduct the necessary due diligence checks, and assess your eligibility for Cypriot citizenship. This process may take some time, and you may be required to provide additional information or attend an interview if requested.
9. If your application is approved, you will be notified of the decision, and you can proceed with the next steps to complete the citizenship acquisition process. This may involve taking an oath of allegiance or making the necessary donations to the designated government funds.

Dual Nationality

Cyprus allows for dual nationality, which means you can hold Cypriot citizenship along with the citizenship of another country.