Program Quick Facts
Fees and Expenses
From €840
Income Requirement
€15,000/year
Residency (Visa) Length
5 years
Time to Obtain
3-6 weeks
Complexity
Simple
The Cyprus Yellow Slip is a type of Temporary Residency issued to EU/EEA nationals and their family members. It is a registration of their right to reside in Cyprus under EU freedom of movement laws.
The residency requires proof of an annual income of €15,000 or an equivalent bank deposit to demonstrate self-sufficiency. Dependents, including spouses and children, can be included in the application including Non-EU spouses and children.
To apply, you must visit the Civil Registry and Migration Department or the District Immigration Unit in person. Remote application is not possible.
The processing time varies a lot, from 14 to 180 days from the submission of the application. After seven years of continuous residency, you may apply for permanent residency or citizenship.
While you can do this yourself by filling out MEU1 (MEU 2 if applicable) forms and showing rental agreement and financial sufficiency, it is often recommended to hire a professional because Cyprus is generally not a DIY country.
Who can apply for Cyprus Yellow Slip?
Eligibility and requirements for the main applicant and family members.
Main Applicant Requirements
- Must be an EU citizen over 18 years old.
- Must have purchased or leased accommodation in Cyprus.
- Must have a bank account in Cyprus (EU bank accounts are accepted too).
Spouse/Partner Requirements
- Can be included (non-EU citizen spouses are eligible).
Children Requirements
Under 18:
- Children under 18 can be included.
Over 18:
- Children over 18 can be included if financially dependent on the main applicant.
Special Cases (Any Age):
- —
Other Family Members Requirements
- Other family members:
- Can be included if financially dependent on the main applicant.
Program Options, Fees and Requirements
Option 1: Yellow Slip Essentials
Register your right to reside in Cyprus as an EU/EEA national or family member. The application process requires proof of income, self-sufficiency, accommodation, and health insurance if not employed in Cyprus. Yellow slip is essential, tax ID and non-dom for those with income.
Feature: AffordableFeature: Simple ProcessRequirements:
Proof of Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory if not employed in Cyprus, costing approximately €200 per year.
Amount: €120
Proof of Accommodation
Proof of accommodation is required.
Amount: €0
Fees:
Government Fee
Fixed fee for residency application.
Amount: €20
Legal Services Fee
Legal services fee for assistance with the application.
Amount: €450
Tax ID
A Tax Identification Number (Tax ID) is required for adults. Optional for the spouse.
Amount: €95
Non-Dom Certificate
Non-Domicile certificate, essential for taking advantage of Cyprus's tax benefits. Optional for the spouse.
Amount: €275
Register your right to reside in Cyprus as an EU/EEA national or family member. The application process requires proof of income, self-sufficiency, accommodation, and health insurance if not employed in Cyprus. Yellow slip is essential, tax ID and non-dom for those with income.
Main Applicant | Spouse (additional) | Child (additional) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Requirements | |||
Proof of Health Insurance* | €120 (not included in total) | €120 (not included in total) | €120 (not included in total) |
Proof of Accommodation* | €0 (not included in total) | €0 (not included in total) | €0 (not included in total) |
| Fees and Expenses | |||
Government Fee | €20 | €20 | €20 |
Legal Services Fee | €450 | €450 | €0 |
Tax ID | €95 | €95 | €0 |
Non-Dom Certificate | €275 | €275 | €0 |
| Total Cost | €840 for main applicant | €1,680 for married couple | €1,700 for family of 3 |
| * Items marked with an asterisk are not included in the total cost calculation | |||
Benefits & Restrictions
Benefits | Restrictions and Drawbacks |
|---|---|
Warm ClimateCyprus offers a Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually, making it an ideal location for those seeking a warm and pleasant lifestyle. | In-Person Application RequiredApplicants must visit the Civil Registry and Migration Department or the District Immigration Unit in person to submit their residency application. |
High Quality of LifeThe country is known for its excellent healthcare system, safety, and relaxed pace of life, providing a high standard of living for residents. | Limited to EU/EEA NationalsThe program is exclusively available to EU/EEA nationals and their family members, restricting access for others. |
Path to CitizenshipApplicants can apply for Cypriot citizenship after 7 years of continuous residency, granting access to full EU citizen rights. | |
Path to Permanent ResidencyAfter 7 years of residing in Cyprus, individuals can transition from temporary to permanent residency, ensuring long-term stability. | |
Access to Public HealthcareResidents can benefit from Cyprus’s public healthcare system, offering affordable and high-quality medical services. | |
Fast ProcessingApplications for residency are typically processed within 45 days, allowing applicants to establish residency quickly. | |
Minimal Residency RequirementThere is no annual presence requirement, providing flexibility for applicants who do not plan to live in Cyprus full-time. | |
Family Members IncludedSpouses, children, and dependent family members can be included in the application, making it a family-friendly residency option. | |
Low Tax JurisdictionCyprus offers a competitive tax environment, with low overall tax rates for residents. | |
No Capital Gains TaxResidents benefit from the absence of capital gains tax, ensuring tax-efficient investment opportunities. | |
No Dividend TaxCyprus does not impose dividend taxes, making it attractive for those seeking to optimize their financial returns. |
Yellow Slip vs other programs in Cyprus
| Criteria | Yellow Slip | Companies of foreign interest> | Permanent Residency> | Visitors Visa> |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Investment Amount | €0 | €200,000 | €300,000 | €0 |
| Residency Type | Temporary Residency | Temporary Residency | Permanent Residency | Temporary Residency |
| Application Fees | €840 | €8,100 | €18,000 | €2,000 |
| Annual Income Requirement | €15,000 | €30,000 | €40,000 | €15,000 |
| Annual Presence Requirement | 0 days | 183 days | 0 days | 183 days |
| Key Perks | Simple SetupLow Cost Program | Fast Tax Residency | Instant Permanent ResidencyNo Presence RequiredFast Tax Residency | Simple Setup |
| Ideal For | EU nationals | EntrepreneursInvestors | Investors | RetireesPerson of independent means |
How to apply for Yellow Slip - Timeline
Prepare Documents
Gather all required documents, including proof of accommodation, bank statements, and health insurance. Ensure they are certified, translated, and ready for submission.
Submit Application
Visit the Civil Registry and Migration Department or the District Immigration Unit to submit the MEU1 form and supporting documents. Pay the €20 government fee.
Application Processing
Authorities review your application to verify eligibility and document authenticity. Processing times may vary based on workload and additional checks.
Receive Yellow Slip
Once approved, collect your Yellow Slip, which confirms your residency status in Cyprus.
Cyprus Taxation at a glance
Key Information
Taxation Type: Residence based
Special Regime: Non-Domiciled (Non-Dom) Regime
Normal Tax Residency: 183 days
Special Residency: 60 day rule
Income Tax Rate: 35
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Programs in Other Countries
CyprusVisitors Visa
Best For:
Cyprus Visitors Visa allows you to obtain a Temporary Residency by showing you have enough funds to support yourself and your family.
