Cypriot citizenship in 4-5 years

Published: 17/12/2023

New Legislation: Fast-Track Cyprus Citizenship for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals

On Thursday, November 30, the Parliament of Cyprus approved by majority vote legislation granting expedited naturalization to highly qualified third-country specialists.

Third-country nationals are now eligible to acquire a Republic of Cyprus passport after 4–5 years of physical residence (reduced from the previous 7-year requirement). The residency duration is tied directly to certified proficiency in the Greek language.

Key Eligibility Criteria for Applicants:

Residency: Lawful and continuous physical presence in Cyprus throughout the 12 months immediately preceding application submission (statutory exceptions apply).
Greek Language Competency:
- Level A2 proficiency - eligibility for citizenship after 5 years,
- Level B1 proficiency - eligibility for citizenship after 4 years.
  These criteria extend to qualifying family dependants of the primary applicant.
Good Character & Standing: Clean criminal record, absence of international arrest warrants, and no historical border entry violations via the unrecognized occupied northern territories.
Financial Stability: Proof of adequate residential accommodation and recurring monthly earnings of not less than €2,500 to sustain the applicant and dependants.
Professional Qualifications: Verified high-level academic credentials or certified professional qualifications.

Fast-Track Processing Timeline

Naturalization dossiers will be reviewed under the streamlined framework within no more than 4 months.

Exhaustive operational circulars and detailed implementation guidelines will be published in the Official Gazette in the coming weeks.

Cypriot citizenship in 4-5 years

New Legislation: Fast-Track Cyprus Citizenship for Highly Skilled Foreign Professionals

Key Eligibility Criteria for Applicants:

Fast-Track Processing Timeline

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