Including Work and Residence Permits for Non-EU Employees of Companies of Foreign Interest
Why Choose Cyprus?
Cyprus is an attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals and families seeking to relocate or expand internationally.
The country offers a competitive tax system, European Union membership, a modern legal and regulatory framework, an excellent quality of life, highly regarded educational institutions, a skilled multilingual workforce and a strategic location connecting Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Immigration to Cyprus
Non-EU nationals wishing to live, work or invest in Cyprus are subject to the applicable immigration legislation and regulations, which may be amended from time to time.
Depending on their circumstances, applicants may qualify under a number of different immigration routes.
Types of Visas and Residence Permits
Short-Stay Visa
Individuals wishing to visit Cyprus for business or leisure for a period of up to three months may apply for a short-stay visa. Depending on the circumstances, visas may be issued for either single or multiple entries.
Temporary Residence Permits (“Pink Slip”)
Non-EU nationals intending to reside in Cyprus without taking up employment may apply for a temporary residence permit, commonly referred to as a “Pink Slip”. These permits are generally issued for one or two years and may be renewed, subject to the applicable conditions.
Common categories include:
- Visitor permit.
- Student permit.
- Employment permit.
Immigration Permits
Immigration permits are available for eligible non-EU nationals wishing to become permanent residents in Cyprus under the applicable immigration categories, including investors and individuals with sufficient secured income.
Permanent Residence Permits
Cyprus also offers permanent residence schemes for eligible non-EU nationals and qualifying family members, subject to satisfying the relevant investment and immigration criteria.
Employment by Companies of Foreign Interest
Cyprus has introduced an attractive framework allowing companies of foreign interest to employ highly skilled non-EU nationals.
Eligible companies generally include businesses that satisfy the applicable investment and ownership requirements and maintain genuine business operations in Cyprus.
Highly Skilled Employees
Highly skilled employees generally need to satisfy requirements including:
- A minimum gross monthly salary of €2,500.
- Appropriate academic qualifications or relevant professional experience.
- A valid employment contract in accordance with the applicable immigration requirements.
The applicable salary threshold and immigration requirements may be revised by the authorities from time to time and should therefore always be confirmed before submitting an application.
Support Staff
Employment of support staff remains subject to the applicable labour market procedures and approval requirements.
Recent policy changes have significantly simplified the employment of highly skilled foreign personnel by companies of foreign interest, making Cyprus an increasingly attractive destination for international businesses.
Family Reunification
Eligible third-country nationals employed in Cyprus may apply for family reunification under the applicable immigration legislation, allowing qualifying family members to reside with them in Cyprus, subject to satisfying the relevant legal requirements.
Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa
The Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Scheme enables eligible non-EU nationals to reside temporarily in Cyprus while working remotely for employers or clients located outside Cyprus.
Applicants are generally required to demonstrate stable and sufficient monthly income, currently at least €3,500 net per month, together with satisfying the remaining eligibility criteria.
As the Digital Nomad Scheme is subject to periodic review by the Cyprus authorities, applicants should always confirm the latest requirements before applying.
How UHY Can Help
Relocating to Cyprus involves immigration, tax and practical considerations that should be addressed together.
Our experienced team can assist with:
- Immigration and relocation advice.
- Temporary and permanent residence permit applications.
- Employment permits.
- Registration with the Cyprus Tax Department.
- Cyprus tax residency planning.
- Company formation and corporate structuring.
- Permanent residency applications.
- Family reunification applications.
- Ongoing tax, accounting and corporate compliance.
For more information on how we may assist you, please contact us at uhy@uhy.com.cy or call +357 22379210.
The contents of this publication are provided for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax or professional advice. Specific advice should always be obtained based on your particular circumstances before taking any action.