New Amendments to Cyprus Citizenship by Naturalization: What You Need to Know
As of December 19, 2023, the Population Register (Amendment) Law of 2023 has come into force, bringing significant changes to the process of acquiring Cypriot citizenship by naturalization. These amendments introduce new qualifications and requirements that applicants must meet to obtain Cypriot citizenship, enhancing transparency and ensuring that applicants are committed to integrating into Cypriot society.
This article provides an in-depth look at the updated qualifications, requirements, and the application process for those seeking Cypriot citizenship, with particular attention to the differentiation between general applicants and highly skilled employees.
Key Qualifications for Citizenship by Naturalization
To apply for Cypriot citizenship through naturalization, an individual must now meet the following cumulative qualifications:
1. Legal and Continuous Residence
The applicant must have legally and continuously resided in Cyprus for the 12 months immediately preceding the application date.
Periods of absence are allowed, provided they do not exceed a total of 90 days within this 12-month period.
2. Residence Requirement for the Last 10 Years
During the 10 years immediately preceding the 12-month period, the applicant must have had legal residence in Cyprus for cumulative periods of at least 7 years.
3. Good Character
The applicant must be of good character, meaning they should not have any criminal record. This will be verified through background checks during the application process.
4. Greek Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate an adequate knowledge of the Greek language, specifically at level B1.
Proof of language proficiency can be provided through a Certificate of Success in the B1 Greek language examination, as outlined in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.
The certificate can be obtained through the Hellenic Language Centre or the School of Greek Language at the University of Cyprus.
Exemptions from this requirement apply to holders of a high school diploma from an institution where Greek was the primary language of instruction or an academic degree where Greek was the teaching language.
5. Knowledge of Cypriot Political and Social Reality
Applicants must pass an examination assessing their knowledge of basic elements of the modern political and social landscape of Cyprus.
A certificate of success in this examination is required, with a passing score of 60% or higher.
The examination is conducted by the Examinations Service of the Ministry of Education, Sports, and Youth.
6. Financial Stability and Adequate Accommodation
The applicant must demonstrate that they have adequate accommodation and stable and regular financial resources sufficient for the maintenance of themselves and their family members.
Evidence may include:
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- Title deeds, rental agreements, and utility bills to prove accommodation.
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- Employment contracts, pay slips, social insurance, income tax records, and bank statements to prove financial stability.
7. Intention to Reside in Cyprus
Finally, the applicant must express a clear intention to reside in the Republic of Cyprus after receiving citizenship. This is a critical part of ensuring that new citizens are committed to contributing to Cypriot society.
Special Provision for Highly Skilled Employees
The new amendments also include differentiated qualifications for highly skilled employees working in companies that are part of Cyprus’ strategy to attract foreign investments and grow high-value sectors. This group includes those employed in companies of foreign interest and also shipping companies, high-tech companies and companies involved in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals.
Please note that applicants under this category should be employed, in a company of foreign interest, for a period of at least two years prior to the submission of the application for naturalization.
1. Individuals holding temporary residence permits for the purpose of employment in companies of foreign interests, provided they belong to the categories:
- Director
- Specialist
- Key personnel
2. Individuals, regardless of their residence status, who:
- receive a minimum gross monthly salary of €2500,
- hold a university diploma or degree or an equivalent qualification, or certificates of experience in a corresponding employment position for a duration of 2 years (e.g., tax declarations).
Individuals in category (2) must provide a certificate either from the Business Facilitation Unit or from the Civil Registry and Migration Department confirming that the company meets the criteria of the Decision.
Qualifications for Highly Skilled Employees
To qualify for naturalization, highly skilled employees must meet the following criteria:
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- Residence Requirements:
During the preceding 10 years, they must have resided in Cyprus for at least 4 years cumulatively. However, this requirement is reduced to 3 years for applicants with higher levels of Greek language proficiency (B1).
Highly skilled employees must have legally resided in Cyprus for the 12 months immediately preceding the application date.
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- Greek Language Proficiency:
The Greek language proficiency requirement is reduced to level A2 for highly skilled employees, with level B1 providing the benefit of earlier application, as stated above.
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- Good Character and Knowledge:
Like other applicants, highly skilled employees must be of good character and demonstrate an understanding of Cypriot politics and society.
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- Eligibility of Family Members
Highly skilled employees’ family members, including spouses, common-law partners, and dependent adult children with disabilities, may also apply for Cypriot citizenship, provided they meet the residence and language requirements.
Moreover, applications for this group of individuals are processed faster, with a maximum processing time of eight months for an additional fee of €5,000.
Application Process
The application for Cypriot citizenship is submitted on the M127 form at the local District Administrations. The application must be accompanied by all the necessary supporting documents, which must be duly authenticated and translated into Greek or English, as required.
Fees
Application Fee: €500 for the submission of the application.
Stamp Duty: Two stamps worth €8.54 each must be attached to the application.
Naturalization Certificate Fee: An additional €500 is required upon approval of the application for the issuance of the naturalization certificate.
For more information or assistance with your application, feel free to contact legal or immigration experts who can guide you through the process.
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