With a reputation as one of the safest countries in the European Union, a lower cost of living compared to other European nations, and an economy primarily focused on tourism and services, the Republic of Cyprus offers one of the most accessible pathways to obtaining residency through investment.
What are the main features of the Golden Visa in this country?
Minimum investment: 300,000 euros, which can be in real estate, companies, or investment funds.
- Family inclusion: You can include your spouse and children under 25 years old in the application.
- Income requirement: 50,000 euros annually as an international salary. An additional 15,000 euros for your spouse and an additional 10,000 euros for each child under 25 years old.
- Right to work: No, this visa does not allow you to work.
- Minimum stay requirement: 1 day every 2 years to maintain residency.
- Visa renewal: Every 3 years.
- Citizenship: You can apply for it after 5 years of residency. You must have lived at least 6 months a year in Cyprus to apply.
At this point, you might be wondering what the best investment option is. This depends on several factors, as each case is unique. Therefore, we offer several possible scenarios below.
- Real Estate Investment: Real estate is undoubtedly the most popular option for obtaining the Golden Visa in Cyprus. You can choose to purchase one or more residential properties with a minimum value of 300,000 euros. Whether it’s a villa with sea views, a cozy apartment in the heart of Nicosia, or an elegant house in Limassol, the options are as varied as your tastes. Additionally, the real estate market in Cyprus is constantly growing, according to the consulting firm Ask Wire. In the first quarter of 2024, apartment prices showed a 6.3% increase, which rises to 9.3% in rentals; both figures compared to the same period in 2023. In terms of office spaces, the increase was 8.2%.
- Investment in Local Businesses: Do you have an entrepreneurial spirit? Cyprus offers you the opportunity to invest in local businesses. With a minimum investment of 300,000 euros, you can acquire shares in established companies that employ at least 5 people or even start your own business. This type of investment not only opens the doors to the Golden Visa but also allows you to immerse yourself in the dynamic Cypriot business world.
- Alternative Investment Funds: Another excellent option is Alternative Investment Funds (AIF). With a minimum investment of 300,000 euros, you can participate in these regulated funds that invest in a variety of assets, from real estate to infrastructure and technology projects. AIFs offer interesting diversification, and with proper regulatory oversight, your investment will be well protected.
- Combination of Investments: If you don’t like putting all your eggs in one basket, no problem! Cyprus allows combining different types of investments to reach the minimum threshold of 300,000 euros. For example, you can invest 150,000 euros in real estate and the other 150,000 in a local business. This flexibility allows you to diversify your portfolio and minimize risks while working to obtain your residency.
For many investors, the most attractive option is real estate due to the security and flexibility this market offers. “The real estate sector in Cyprus has shown remarkable resilience and growth,” notes Ask Wire. “The stability and value growth of properties offer promising returns on investment,” says the consultancy, pointing to a market valuation increase of approximately 1% to 4% annually.
Comparatively, in the first quarter of 2024, real estate prices in Europe fell by an average of 2%, according to the firm ABRDN, which, however, predicts stabilization by the end of the year, with returns of 1.5%.
If you are looking for security, quality of life, and growth opportunities, and are interested in the Golden Visa option in this beautiful Mediterranean country, schedule a meeting with our team. Whether you choose to invest in real estate, local businesses, or investment funds—each has its own charm and benefits—our experts are here to provide you with the best advice and help you find the most suitable opportunity for your profile. Schedule a meeting now!