CYPRUS NATURALISATION OF FOREIGN NATIONALS: Updates

The Cypriot House of Representatives granted approval on November 30, 2023, for an amendment to the Civil Registry Law, commonly referred to as “the Law”. This amendment marks a significant step towards modernizing the existing legal framework, aiming to ease the requirements and criteria associated with the naturalization of foreign nationals.

Key modifications within the amendment primarily revolve around the duration of residency required for foreign nationals before being eligible to apply for naturalization. Additionally, changes have been made to the language proficiency criteria, specifically in the Greek language. Notably, the amendments introduce special provisions with more lenient requirements for individuals in the technology sector who possess high qualifications or skills.
In summary, the approved changes signify a progressive shift in the legal landscape, streamlining the naturalization process and acknowledging the unique qualifications of applicants within the technology sector.

The introduced special amendments play a crucial role in facilitating the attraction and retention of highly skilled and qualified individuals, along with their families, particularly in the realm of technology. This forward-looking move represents a significant stride towards positioning Cyprus as a prominent international technology hub.

This initiative not only enhances the nation’s reputation as a continually evolving international business hub but is also anticipated to stimulate innovation, nurture local talent, and propel economic growth. The amendments primarily focus on adjusting the duration of residency required for foreign nationals seeking naturalization and the proficiency criteria in the Greek language. Furthermore, these changes incorporate special provisions designed specifically for individuals with advanced qualifications and skills within the technology sector.

Main provisions

• Applicants must meet the following conditions: Legal and continuous physical stay in Cyprus for the 12 months preceding the application for naturalisation (periods of absence should not exceed 90 days in total).
• Legal physical stay in Cyprus for at least 7 out of 10 years preceding the aforementioned 12-month period (periods of absence should not exceed 90 days in total per year).
• To be of good character and have a clean criminal record.
• To be financially self-sufficient and have a suitable place of residence.
• To have sufficient knowledge of the Greek language (certificate of basic knowledge, Level B1) and basic knowledge of the country’s political and social status.
• To have the intention to stay in Cyprus.

Special provisions

• The subsequent special provisions delineate distinctions from the aforementioned standard provisions in the scenario involving foreign nationals possessing advanced qualifications or skills within the technology sector. These provisions specifically apply to individuals employed by designated foreign interest companies, as determined by the Council of Ministers. The distinctions are as follows:
  The period of 7 years (out of the last 10) of residence in Cyprus is reduced to 4 years for applicants having a certificate of knowledge of the Greek language of A2 level, and 3 years if the certificate is of B1 level.
• Family members of the applicants may also apply for naturalisation, under the same conditions. Spouses or civil partners of the applicants need to possess the same certificates of knowledge of the Greek language as the applicants. Children of the applicants that reach adulthood (18 years of age) during the examination of their parent’s application shall still be considered minors for the purpose of the Law and be eligible for naturalisation. Dependent adult children with disabilities are also eligible.
• Applications by highly qualified individuals shall be examined via a “fast-track” process not exceeding eight months, subject to the payment of a fee. The details of the fast-track process and the relevant fee shall be determined via Ministerial decision.

Naturalization applications submitted prior to the implementation of the amendments will undergo examination based on the updated criteria outlined above.

Disclaimer

The information provided above offers a general overview of the advantages of establishing a business in Cyprus. Should you require specific guidance or consultation regarding relocating your business to Cyprus, incorporating a company in Cyprus, or any other related matters, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@antonioulegal.com.