This major tourist destination in the Mediterranean is not just perfect for a relaxing holiday. Expats looking to live close to the best beaches in Europe and aspire a sunlit lifestyle don’t have to search anymore: Cyprus is the place.
Cyprus is one island and an independent nation, but there are still two ‘countries’ to choose from when you want to call the island your new home. In spite of the fact that there is a dispute over the exact governance of Cyprus, it is a stable European Union democracy with an extremely low crime rate and is one of the safest places in the world. The island is child friendly and has great education options. It only rains 40 days out of the year and it’s sunny on more than 300 days. The Cypriot economy is growing and unemployment numbers are dropping. Tourism is very important to the island; nearly 3 million people visit the island every year.
Locals speak a mix of Turkish and Greek but almost everybody speaks English too, which is convenient for expats from all over the world. Perhaps this is why there is a large expat community on the island and plenty of opportunities to meet new people. Taxes in Cyprus are low, finding a house is easy and rent is cheap compared to most places in Europe.
Citizens of the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA) can move, live and work freely in Cyprus. Below are some of the residency options for non EEA citizens:
Investment
You can apply for an Investment Residency permit if you meet the following criteria:
Work Visa
Immigrants from an EU member country who want to live and work in Cyprus need a residence permit. Application must be done within three months of moving to the country, working in the meantime is allowed. The application process can take up to six months and permits are reviewed after two years. People from other countries need to apply for a work permit and can only do so after being offered a job in Cyprus. They can start work once the permit is granted.
Startup Visa
The "Cyprus Startup Visa" program/ scheme allows talented entrepreneurs from third countries [outside the European Union (EU) and outside the European Economic Area (EEA)], individuals or in a team, to enter, reside and work in Cyprus in order to establish / operate / develop a startup with a high growth potential.
Through your Family
Youth Mobility Visa
Here are some of the ways to get citizenship in Cyprus:
Investment
Through your Family
The passport for Cyprus allows you to travel to 151 countries without a visa.
Its global rank is 37.