Cyprus: Citizenship by Naturalisation – Amendments to the Migration Law

On December 19, 2023, the Republic of Cyprus introduced significant amendments to the Civil Registry Law that governs the naturalization of foreign nationals based on years of residence in Cyprus.

These changes have immediate effect and have introduced new criteria and requirements that have to be met by foreign nationals to be eligible for application for Cyprus citizenship retroactively.

To apply for Cyprus citizenship under the new law, applicants must have:

  1. Legal and continuous residence in the Republic for the period of the immediately preceding twelve (12) months from the date of submission of the naturalization application, provided that the periods of absence from the Republic do not exceed a total of ninety (90) days within the 12-month period, and during the immediately preceding ten (10) years from the period of twelve (12) months, residing in the Republic for at least seven (7) years.
  2. Clean criminal record from the country of residence and country of origin, if different, no arrest warrants and not being on any sanctions list.
  3. Financial independence and suitable place of residence.
  4. Not entered or left the Republic from any illegal/closed airports and ports (i.e. all the airports and ports in the occupied areas), not having acted in a manner that constitutes acceptance of the illegal administration/ occupancy in areas not controlled by the Republic of Cyprus, not holding any office related thereto, and not being in possession, having unlawfully entered, caused damage to, or interfered with immovable property located in such areas which belong to another lawful owner.
  5. Genuine intention to remain in the Republic.
  6. Level B1 Certificate of the Greek language. However, in the case of a person who resides in the Republic for the purpose of highly skilled employment and who has knowledge of the Greek language at level A2 or B1, the cumulative time periods within the previous ten (10) years from the twelve (12) month period provided for in paragraph 1 is at least four (4) years for A2 level or three (3) years for B1 level, instead of seven (7) years.

Fast Track Examination: Notably, the law provides for applications by high-skilled employees to be examined within 8 months.

The new amendment also provides for the naturalization of the applicant’s family members. A family member who also meets the above criteria may apply for naturalization as well.

Our team of expert professionals can assist you with the following:

  • Advice on the new criteria;
  • Guidance as to the requirements based on the applicant’s case;
  • Submission of the application and assistance with the migration department throughout the process up to receiving the results.

 

We are committed to offering a wide array of solutions designed to assist individuals and businesses relocating to Cyprus, and those seeking to obtain Cyprus citizenship under the newly revised naturalization framework. Our approach is customized to meet the unique needs of each client, ensuring a consistent and personalized experience.

For advice on citizenship issues, contact us at info@dplawcyprus.com

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