Cyprus is an attractive destination for those seeking European citizenship, offering a Mediterranean lifestyle, a business-friendly environment, and full EU benefits. While direct citizenship by investment is no longer available, there are still several legitimate pathways to obtaining Cyprus citizenship.
This guide explains the four main routes to citizenship: naturalization, marriage, descent, and birth. Whether you're an expat, married to a Cypriot, or have family ties to Cyprus, this article clarifies the requirements, application process, and benefits of securing Cypriot citizenship.
For expert legal assistance with your application, visit our Cyprus Citizenship Service
Ways to Obtain Cyprus Citizenship There are four legal pathways to becoming a Cypriot citizen:
Citizenship by Naturalization : Available to long-term residents who meet residency and language requirements.Citizenship by Marriage : For spouses of Cypriot nationals who meet eligibility criteria.Citizenship by Descent : For individuals with Cypriot parentage or grand parentage.Citizenship by Birth : Limited to those born in Cyprus under specific conditions.If you’re considering residency as a first step towards citizenship, explore our Cyprus Permanent Residency by Investment
Citizenship by Naturalization Standard Route: Citizenship Through Residency To qualify for Cyprus citizenship by naturalization through the standard route, applicants must meet the following citizenship requirements:
Complete 7 years of legal residence in the last 10 years. This may include various residence permits or visas, as long as they were legally obtained. Undertake a continuous 12-month residency period immediately before submitting their application, during which absences of up to 90 days are permitted. Pass a B1-level Greek language test. Pass a socio-political knowledge exam with a minimum score of 60%. Provide a clean criminal record (good character requirement). Prove financial stability (e.g., stable income, suitable housing). Show a declared intention to reside in Cyprus after obtaining citizenship. In total, the standard route effectively requires 8 years of residence (7 years plus the final uninterrupted 12-month period). Once these conditions are met, applicants may submit their M127 form for naturalization, along with supporting documents such as proof of residence, language proficiency, and financial resources.
Fast-Track Route: Citizenship for Highly Skilled Workers To attract top talent, Cyprus offers an expedited naturalization process for highly skilled professionals. This new route was implemented from 22 March 2024, and providing a fast-track path to citizenship, allowing applicants to qualify for Cyprus citizenship in as little as 3 or 4 years, provided they meet the following criteria:
Requirements Reside legally in Cyprus for at least 3 years (B1 Greek) or 4 years (A2 Greek) within the last 10 years. Complete an uninterrupted 12-month stay in Cyprus immediately before applying, allowing for a maximum of 90 days of absences. Successfully pass a Greek language proficiency test at the required level (B1 for 3-year applicants, A2 for 4-year applicants). Achieve a minimum score of 60% on the socio-political knowledge examination. Be employed by a company recognized under Cyprus’s Business Attraction Strategy. Maintain a clean criminal record, demonstrating good moral standing. Provide evidence of financial self-sufficiency, including a stable income and suitable living arrangements. Declare intent to continue residing in Cyprus following naturalisation. Processing Time The fast-track route ensures that applications are processed within 8 months, significantly reducing the waiting period compared to the standard route.
Citizenship by Marriage Spouses of Cypriot citizens can apply for Cyprus citizenship by marriage, provided they meet these citizenship requirements:
Married for at least 3 years. Resided in Cyprus for at least 2 years before applying. Proof of cohabitation and authenticity of the marriage. Processing time: 12 to 24 months. Furthermore, spouses of Cypriot citizens residing abroad can apply for citizenship after three years of marriage. In these cases, they must provide a justification for seeking Cypriot nationality. However, if the marriage has lasted five years or more and the couple has at least one child, no explanation is required.
Citizenship by Descent Individuals with Cypriot ancestry may qualify for Cyprus citizenship by descent depending on their date of birth:
Applicants born before 16. August 1960:
With a male Cypriot descendant; or As a descendant of UK or foreign citizens who could have claimed Cypriot nationality; or To a father and/or mother of Cypriot origin who holds UK or foreign citizenship. The applicant must have lived in Cyprus for at least 12 months before applying. Applicants born after 16. August 1960:
To a father and/or mother who was a Cypriot at birth. If the applicant is a minor, a parent must apply on their behalf. Minors with a parent who acquired Cypriot citizenship:
Eligible if the parent gained citizenship through descent or naturalisation. Citizenship by Birth Individuals born to at least one Cypriot parent automatically acquire citizenship at birth, as long as neither parent is classified as an illegal migrant. However, being born in Cyprus alone does not grant citizenship. Foreign nationals born in Cyprus may apply for citizenship later through naturalisation, usually after meeting a seven-year residency requirement.
Military Service Requirement for Male Applicants Men aged 18 to 45 who acquire Cyprus citizenship must complete 14 months of military service if either parent is of Cypriot origin.
For those who, along with their parents, have lived abroad for more than 10 years, a reduced service applies. Men over 26 years old serve for 3 months, while those between 18 and 26 serve for 6 months.
Conscription takes place in the first ten days of July each year. Enlistment is mandatory, so new citizens should contact their local military office as soon as they obtain citizenship.
Cyprus Citizenship Cost The cost of obtaining Cyprus citizenship varies based on the route chosen:
Naturalization application fee : ~€500Marriage-based application fee : ~€300Descent-based application fee : ~€300Additional costs : Language exams and legal feesConclusion Cyprus provides multiple pathways to citizenship, each with its own set of requirements. Recent legislative changes have made the process significantly faster, particularly for highly skilled professionals seeking a route to naturalisation. While acquiring Cyprus citizenship grants access to EU rights and opportunities, applicants must carefully follow the legal and procedural requirements.
For expert guidance and a smooth application process, our team at Clover is ready to assist you. Visit our Cyprus Citizenship Service
