Nestled gracefully within the embrace of the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus beckons with an intricate blend of historical legacy, cultural richness, and modern sophistication. Positioned strategically at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, this captivating island has garnered attention from inquisitive travelers and discerning investors alike. The scope of Cyprus’s allure unfolds through an examination of its intricate components, spanning domains of healthcare, political dynamics, education, lifestyle, housing, economy, and most importantly, its residency by investment program.
About Cyprus
While small in size, Cyprus has always been a major contributor to Mediterranean history. Its strategic location among sea routes cemented its place as an important geopolitical location, and that importance has only grown since it became a member of the EU, a global economic and political superpower. This status has elevated the Cypriot living standard and has made it into an excellent haven for those looking for a second home. Here are some of the factors that make Cyprus such an excellent place to be:
Healthcare System
With a comprehensive healthcare system, Cyprus ensures access to medical services for all its citizens. The public sector comprises hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Notably, Cyprus boasts an impressive doctor-patient ratio of approximately 1 doctor per 330 residents, reflecting its commitment to healthcare provision.
Political Framework
Cyprus operates as a presidential republic, with the President serving as both the head of state and government. Its unique political landscape is shaped by its historical division, where the Republic of Cyprus encompasses the Greek Cypriot population. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, recognized only by Turkey, adds complexity to the geopolitical scenario.
Cyprus’ focus on democratic governing and human rights makes it an excellent option for Western investors looking for something familiar in their second home, while it is a breath of fresh air to those coming from more authoritarian nations and in need of a change of pace.
Education System
Education is a cornerstone of Cypriot society. The island dedicates around 6% of its GDP to education, highlighting its commitment to fostering knowledge. The University of Cyprus, a premier institution, attracts international students, contributing to the island’s multicultural education environment.
Lifestyle and Culture
Cypriots savor a Mediterranean lifestyle that basks in 300 days of sunshine yearly. The island’s cultural festivals, rooted in traditions, showcase its heritage. The tourism sector, accounting for approximately 13% of Cyprus’s GDP, attests to the global appeal of its lifestyle.
Housing Market
The housing market reflects the island’s allure. Around 75% of Cypriots own their homes, pointing to a strong culture of property ownership. The housing boom of the early 2000s led to significant construction, with apartments constituting over 60% of the housing supply.
Economy
Cyprus’s mixed economy thrives on various sectors. Tourism welcomes over 3.9 million visitors annually, generating substantial revenue. Moreover, its shipping industry ranks among the largest globally, with around 1,000 vessels registered under the Cypriot flag. The financial services sector contributes significantly to the island’s GDP, further diversifying its economic landscape.
The Cyprus Residency By Investment Program
The Cypriot residency by investment program is one of the world’s simplest ways to obtain a second residency through meaningful investment.
By making a qualifying investment of at least € 300,000 in an approved investment category, eligible investors will obtain a permanent residency in Cyprus for them and their qualifying dependents. The Cypriot residency by investment program is lightening quick with a processing time typically between two to three months, and it is a simple way for a foreign investor to obtain a permanent residence within an EU nation.
The program has very minimal physical residence requirements, as all a person needs to do to maintain their permanent residency permit is visit Cyprus once every two years, making the program an excellent Plan B.
AQualification Criteria
To qualify for the Cypriot residency by investment program, investors must:
- Be above 18 years of age
- Have a clean criminal record
- Make a qualifying investment
- Submit a full application
- Visit Cyprus once every two years to maintain their permanent residency status
Investment Options
The Cypriot government decided on standardizing the minimum investment threshold among all investment categories under its residency by investment program to € 300,000 plust VAT, allowing investors to choose their preferred investment asset class without needing to settle for something else because of the amount.
The approved investment options are:
- An investment of at least € 300,000 in new residential real estate
- An investment of € 300,000 in up to two non-residential properties (commercial, industrial, land, etc.)
- An investment of € 300,000 in share capital within a Cypriot company operating within Cyprus and employing at least five people
- An investment of at least € 300,000 in the Cyprus Investment Funds Association’s collective investments (AIF, RAIF, AIFLNP)
The Process
The process to obtain a Cypriot permanent residency permit through investment is extremely simple and consists of just a few steps:
- Sign a contract with NTL Trust to help guide you through the investment and application process
- Collect the required documentation as per NTL Trust’s instructions
- Make a qualifying investment
- Submit a full application
- Submit biometrics
- Travel to Cyprus to collect the permanent residency card once approved
- Travel to Cyprus once every two years to maintain residency status
Route To Citizenship
Cyprus closed down its citizenship by investment program in 2020, however, those still interested in eventually obtaining the citizenship of Cyprus can do so by living there on a permanent residency.
Permanent residents who live five years in Cyprus (1825 days) – instead of the seven years (2555 days) usually required – can apply for naturalization. They will have to pass the language and knowledge of country requirements to be approved, but it is a simple and natural process for those who have resided in the country for the required amount of time.
Benefits Of Obtaining A Permanent Residency In Cyprus
There are endless benefits to obtaining a permanent residency in Cyprus, some due to the country itself and what it offers, others due to the nature of the program.
Benefits Of The Country
- Strategic Geolocation:
Nestled at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and Asia, Cyprus benefits from a strategic geographic location that streamlines trade and business connectivity across continents. This enviable proximity has propelled Cyprus into a bustling hub for international trade, fostering cross-border investment and collaboration.
- Tax Advantages:
Cyprus offers an alluring tax structure that entices foreign investors. With a remarkably low corporate tax rate and an extensive network of double taxation treaties, Cyprus effectively minimizes tax obligations for companies navigating global operations. Furthermore, Cyprus extends tax exemptions on dividends, capital gains, and interest income in select instances, rendering it an appealing jurisdiction for holding companies.
- Resilient Financial Sector:
Cyprus takes pride in its robust and well-regulated financial sector, accommodating a diverse spectrum of financial services. The country’s banking system adheres to rigorous international standards, garnering a reputation for its stability and reliability. The presence of reputable financial institutions, investment funds, and wealth management services equips investors with a secure platform for asset management.
- EU Market Access:
As a member of the European Union (EU), Cyprus provides investors with unfettered access to the expansive EU market, which encompasses over 500 million consumers. This EU membership grants Cyprus-based companies the advantages of the EU’s single market, including unobstructed movement of goods, services, capital, and personnel.
- Enabling Business Environment:
Cyprus has undertaken substantial efforts to cultivate a business-conducive environment that nurtures innovation and entrepreneurship. The government has streamlined administrative processes, simplified company registration procedures, and established specialized entities to assist investors across various sectors.
- Flourishing Tourism Industry:
Tourism stands as a cornerstone of Cyprus’s economy, magnetizing millions of tourists annually. For investors, this translates into alluring prospects within the hospitality, real estate, and entertainment sectors. The escalating demand for top-tier accommodations, recreational facilities, and entertainment options renders tourism-related investments exceedingly promising.
- Surging Technology Sector:
Cyprus is actively nurturing its technology and innovation landscape, making notable strides in domains like fintech, cybersecurity, and software development. Government support for technology startups, coupled with dedicated tech parks and innovation centers, creates a fertile ground for tech-centric investments.
- Energy and Infrastructure Momentum:
Cyprus harbors substantial potential in the energy sector, particularly in natural gas exploration. The uncovering of substantial gas reserves within its Exclusive Economic Zone ushers in prospects for energy-linked investments and infrastructure advancement, positioning Cyprus as an emerging contender in the global energy arena.
Benefits Of The Program
- An Excellent Plan B
By obtaining a permanent residency in an EU country, an investor can safeguard themselves, their family members, and their wealth by hedging against political and economic turbulence in their home country. A permanent residency card, which gives its holders the same rights as citizens excluding political rights such as voting or running for office, allows investors to sleep well knowing they have a robust second home in case they ever need it.
- A Simple Process
The process of obtaining Cypriot residency through investment is extremely simple and quick. It consists of a few steps and typically takes between two to three months in processing. By signing with NTL Trust, that process is made even easier through the help and guidance of our experts consultants that will ensure you achieve your goals through an investment that is beneficial to you.
- Access To EU For Future Generations
The Cypriot residency by investment program is a great way for children to obtain EU education within Cyprus, and those who go on to be naturalized (if they meet the requirements) can pursue education and employment throughout the entire EU as they see fit.
- Affordable And Profitable Investments
The Cypriot residency by investment program allows investors to pursue new real estate in an open market, opening the door for interesting investments that can potentially yield high arbitrage returns. Investors can change their investment down the road, for example if they have a profitable sale, but this is a sensitive matter that NTL Trust can help guide you through, as investments can be sold but they must be replaced with other ones that qualify to maintain residence status.
How To Get Started
The best way to pursue the Cypriot residency by investment program is by contacting NTL Trust today to book a comprehensive consultation with one of our EU residency by investment experts who will analyze your case and consult you on the very best path forward.
English 
Russian 