Relocate to Cyprus: Unlocking Opportunities with the EU Blue Card and Permanent Residency

Cyprus is not only an attractive destination for businesses and investors but also for highly skilled professionals seeking to live and work in the European Union. Recent updates regarding the EU Blue Card scheme and pathways to permanent residency and citizenship offer exciting opportunities for both, companies and individuals.

The EU Blue Card: A Path for Non-EU Talent

The EU Blue Card is a streamlined residence and work permit for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. It offers a clear and structured path for individuals seeking to live and work in Cyprus while enjoying the benefits of EU mobility. 

For companies, especially in key sectors such as technology, finance, and healthcare, the EU Blue Card offers a practical way to bring in skilled non-EU workers to fill talent gaps.

With the recent introduction of the EU Blue Card scheme in Cyprus, new legislation has made it more accessible and beneficial for highly skilled non-EU professionals:

• Eligibility Flexibility: Candidates for the Blue Card can qualify based on either higher education qualifications or professional experience in their relevant field, giving more professionals a chance to apply.
  
  
• Specific Salary Thresholds: To qualify, the minimum salary must be between €20,000 and €32,000, depending on the role and sector, providing a clearer framework for applicants and employers.
  
  
• Extended Visa Duration: Blue Card holders can now benefit from a residence permit of up to 24 months, making it easier to plan longer-term employment.
  
  
• Simplified Route to Permanent Residence: After 33 months of holding the Blue Card, individuals are eligible to apply for permanent residence, if they meet certain criteria, such as demonstrating proficiency in the local language and contributing to a pension fund.
  
  
• Family Reunification: The EU Blue Card also facilitates the immediate relocation of family members, including spouses and children under 18, ensuring that families can settle together without delays.
  
  
• Path to Citizenship: Foreign professionals can also pursue Cypriot citizenship. With a B1 Greek language certificate, individuals may apply after four (4) years of residency, or after five (5) years with an A2 level certificate.

Permanent Residency by Investment

For individuals, Cyprus provides an attractive permanent residence option through an investment of €300,000. This is particularly appealing for those looking to benefit from the island’s strategic location and its role as a gateway to Europe. Investors can choose from the following options:

• Real Estate: Purchasing property in Cyprus, whether residential or commercial.
• Funds or Shares: Investing in Cypriot companies or approved funds.

The permanent residency granted through this route provides indefinite stay rights in Cyprus and a fast track to Cypriot citizenship after five (5) years of continuous residence, down from the previous seven (7) years.

Relocation Made Easier with ATG

At ATG, we specialize in making the relocation process to Cyprus seamless for both, corporate clients and private clients. The recent updates to the EU Blue Card and other regulations have simplified the relocation process, making Cyprus even more accessible.

For companies, we facilitate the establishment of operations through the Business Facilitation Unit (BFU), allowing businesses to take advantage of Cyprus' strategic location, tax incentives, and business-friendly environment. This includes securing residence by employment for staff, such as the EU Blue Card for highly skilled non-EU nationals.

For individuals, we offer a range of relocation options, including residence by employment, the EU Blue Card, the Digital Nomad Visa, or Permanent Residency by Investment. 

With our in-depth knowledge of Cyprus’ immigration policies and strong relationships with local authorities, we ensure a smooth and successful relocation experience for both corporate and private clients. 

Additional Resources

Everything You Need to Know About Relocation to Cyprus 

Contact Us

This publication should be used as a source of general information only. It is not intended to give a definitive statement of the law. For a FREE Initial Consultation to discuss the specifics of your enquiry please contact Andreas Athinodorou on + 357 22 057 560 or andreas.athinodorou@atgcorporate.com.