Eligibility Criteria for Citizenship Application

Individuals (non-EU nationals) interested in acquiring Cyprus citizenship should fulfil the following criteria:

1. To have resided in Cyprus for 12 consecutive months prior to the submission of their application.
2. To have resided in Cyprus for at least 7 years in total within the timeframe of 10 years prior to the period of 12 months that is stated above.
3. To be of good character.
4. To have adequate knowledge of Greek language, level B1.
5. To have adequate knowledge of basic aspects of socio-political reality of the Republic.
6. To have accommodation and stable income to support themselves and their families.
7. To have an intention to reside in Cyprus.
8. To demonstrate a genuine interest in acquiring the citizenship.

This criteria is different for applicants who are highly skilled employees of companies of foreign interests. In this case, the applicant needs to satisfy the following requirements:

1. To have resided in Cyprus for 12 consecutive months prior to the submission of their application.
2. During the immediately preceding 10 years from the 12-month period, the applicant must have resided in Cyprus for at least 4 years or 3 years in total depending on their level of Greek language proficiency, i.e., If their Greek language level is A2 they need to have resided in Cyprus for at least 4 years, and if their level of Greek language is B1, then they need to have resided in Cyprus for at least 3 years prior to the 12-month period.
3. To be of good character.
4. To have sufficient knowledge of the Greek language at level A2 or B1, as applicable.
5. To have sufficient knowledge of basic elements of the political and social reality of Cyprus.
6. To have accommodation and stable income to support themselves and their families.
7. To have an intention to reside in Cyprus.

Likewise, family members (spouse, underage children, dependent adult children with a disability) of highly skilled employees may be also eligible to apply for citizenship with the main applicant, provided they meet the residence and language requirements.

Such applications for citizenship are examined within 8 months from submission.