Cyprus has long been a popular destination for investors seeking the benefits of the Golden Visa program, offering a gateway to European Union (EU) residency. Over the years, the Cyprus Golden Visa has attracted individuals from around the world, including entrepreneurs, high-net-worth individuals, and families looking to secure long-term residency in the EU. However, recent changes to the program have raised questions about its future, leaving potential investors wondering whether the Golden Visa is still available in Cyprus. In this article, we will explore the latest updates on Cyprus' Golden Visa program and what it means for prospective investors.

Before delving into the recent updates, it's important to understand why the Cyprus Golden Visa program gained so much popularity in the first place. Introduced as the Cyprus Investment Program (CIP) in 2013, it provided non-EU investors with a pathway to Cypriot citizenship by making significant investments in the country. The program was designed to attract foreign capital, boost the local economy, and offer individuals and their families the ability to live, work, and travel freely within the EU.

Investors were required to make a minimum investment of €2 million, typically in real estate or other approved assets, while also maintaining a permanent residence in Cyprus valued at €500,000 or more. In return, they were granted full Cypriot citizenship within approximately six months, with the ability to include their family members. This provided them with the benefits of an EU passport, allowing them to live, work, and travel freely within the European Union.

In 2020, Cyprus made significant changes to its Golden Visa program, including a shift towards stricter regulations and increased scrutiny of applicants. The government sought to refine the program to ensure that investments genuinely contribute to the economic development of the island and align with international standards on anti-money laundering and transparency.

However, the most notable update came in November 2020 when the government announced the suspension of the Cyprus Golden Visa program for investors seeking citizenship. This decision was made following reports of concerns over the misuse of the program, with some high-profile cases highlighting potential issues regarding the transparency and integrity of the citizenship-by-investment scheme.

While the suspension of the citizenship option had a significant impact, the residency program for investors and their families remained available. So, as of now, can you still get Golden Visa benefits in Cyprus? Let’s take a closer look.

As of 2025, Cyprus has not eliminated its Golden Visa program entirely. The country still offers a permanent residency-by-investment program, which provides investors with the opportunity to live in Cyprus without the immediate promise of citizenship. Under this program, investors are required to make a minimum real estate investment of €300,000, in addition to meeting other criteria such as proving the ability to support themselves and their family financially while residing in the country.

The main change since 2020 is that the route to citizenship through investment is no longer available. While Cyprus no longer offers a direct path to citizenship for investors, the Golden Visa still allows applicants to benefit from living in Cyprus and accessing all the advantages of being a permanent resident in the EU.

Despite the removal of the citizenship option, the Cyprus Golden Visa still offers numerous benefits for investors. Some of the key advantages include:

1. Permanent Residency in the EU: The Cyprus Golden Visa grants investors and their families permanent residency in Cyprus, offering the right to live, work, and study in Cyprus and across the EU. It also allows for easy travel throughout the Schengen Area, making it an attractive option for those looking for flexibility in travel.

2. No Requirement to Reside in Cyprus: Unlike some other European countries’ residency-by-investment programs, the Cyprus Golden Visa does not require investors to live in the country full-time. Investors are only required to visit Cyprus once every two years, making it an ideal option for those who wish to retain their primary residence elsewhere.

3. Family Inclusion: One of the biggest draws of the Cyprus Golden Visa is the ability to include family members in the application. Investors can include their spouse, children up to the age of 25 (if they are financially dependent), and even their parents, making it a great option for families looking to secure EU residency.

4. Access to High-Quality Healthcare and Education: Cyprus boasts a high standard of healthcare and education, and as a permanent resident, you and your family members will have access to these services. This is particularly beneficial for those looking to relocate with children or in need of quality medical care.

Potential for Citizenship After 7 Years: While the immediate route to citizenship is no longer available, investors who have held permanent residency in Cyprus for 7 years may still be eligible to apply for citizenship through naturalization, provided they meet the criteria set out by the Cypriot authorities.

Despite the changes, the Cyprus Golden Visa remains an attractive option for many investors. The program offers flexibility, a favorable tax environment, and access to the EU, all of which are appealing for individuals looking for international mobility or a safe haven for themselves and their families.

Cyprus continues to be a gateway to Europe, offering a welcoming environment with a Mediterranean lifestyle, and its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa adds to its allure. With a growing economy, an increasingly digital landscape, and a strong focus on innovation, Cyprus remains an appealing place for investment and residence.