Residency Rights of EU Citizens and Their Non-EU Family Members in Cyprus

As an EU member state, Cyprus offers EU citizens and their families the opportunity to reside in the country without issues, as well as to register their status with the migration authorities.

The REVERA team will ensure the correct preparation and submission of documents required for obtaining registration certificates, as well as for acquiring permanent residency after 5 years of residence in Cyprus.

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Residence Rights of EU Citizens (Yellow Slip)

If an EU citizen plans to stay in Cyprus for more than 90 days, they must register with the Migration Department and apply for a Registration Certificate, commonly known as the “Yellow Slip”.

Failure to comply with the obligation to register may result in a financial penalty of up to €2,500.

Eligibility Requirements

  1. Employment or self-employment in Cyprus, or
  2.  Sufficient financial income, and
  3. Proof of medical insurance coverage.

Application Process

  1. The application is submitted by appointment at the local District Immigration Unit of the city of residence.
  2. The certificate is issued on the same day and has no expiry date it also includes a unique Alien Registration Number (ARC), which is permanent and used for all interactions with authorities, such as:
    • Bank account opening
    • Employment registration
    • Exchange of driving license
    • Government services

Typical Supporting Documents (non-exhaustive list)

  • Valid passport or national ID
  • Proof of accommodation 
  • Medical insurance
  • Proof of income or employment (e.g., work contract, bank statements)
     

Permanent Residence Rights of EU Citizens (After 5 Years of Continuous Stay)

An EU citizen who has legally resided in Cyprus for a continuous period of 5 years may become eligible to apply for a Permanent Residence Certificate.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Proof of continuous legal residence in Cyprus for 5 years. 
  2. Submission of documentation supporting the duration and legality of the stay.

Application Process

  • The application is submitted similarly to the initial registration process.
  • The examination period is approximately 1 month.

Residency for Non-EU Family Members of EU Citizens in Cyprus

Non-EU family members of EU citizens residing in Cyprus are also entitled to reside in the Republic, provided they accompany or join the EU citizen. They must apply for a Residence Card for Family Members of EU Citizens, which grants similar rights of stay and access to services.

For stays longer than 90 days, registration is required at the Migration Department. Failure to register may result in a fine of up to €2,500.

Eligible family members include

  • Spouse or civil partner (or those who can prove a durable relationship via alternative documentation; details on this option are available on our website)
  • Direct descendants of the EU citizen or their spouse/partner, under the age of 21 or dependents
  • Dependent direct relatives in the ascending line of the EU citizen or their spouse/partner

Application Process

  1. Submission is by appointment at the Migration Department of the city of residence.
  2. The processing period is up to 6 months.
  3. Upon approval, the residency card is valid for up to 5 years and is renewable.

Supporting Documents (non-exhaustive list)

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Medical insurance
  • Proof of income or employment
  • Marriage certificate or civil union certificate, or other proof of family relationship (e.g., birth certificate)
  • Documentation of harmonious cohabitation of the couple (where applicable)

Once approved, the non-EU family member enjoys

  1. Free access to employment, including self-employment
  2. A residency card with a unique Alien Registration Number (ARC), which is required for:
    • Bank account opening
    • Employment registration
    • Driving license exchange
    • Interactions with government authorities
       

Permanent Residence for Non-EU Family Members (After 5 Years of Continuous Stay)

Non-EU family members who have legally resided in Cyprus for a continuous period of 5 years are eligible to apply for a Permanent Residence Certificate.

Key features

  • Confirms permanent resident status
  • Grants long-term residence and rights
  • Valid for 10 years and renewable

Eligibility Criteria

  • Proof of continuous legal residence for 5 years
  • Submission of supporting documentation proving the legality and continuity of stay

Application Process

  • Submitted similarly to the initial residence card application
  • Processing time: up to 6 months
     

Write to our specialist, and we will accompany you in the whole procedure

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