What is a Visitor Permit in Cyprus?
The Visitor Permit in Cyprus, also known as the Pink Slip, is a temporary residence permit that allows non-European Union nationals to extend their stay beyond the standard 90-day visa period. It is issued for one year and can be renewed annually. Holders of this permit can legally reside in Cyprus but are not permitted to work. Additionally, they must not remain outside Cyprus for more than three consecutive months, or the permit will be automatically canceled.
Temporary Residence Permit Categories in Cyprus
- Visitor Permit:
- Available to spouses, parents-in-law, and underage children of Cypriot citizens.
- Issued to third-country nationals and their dependents who can demonstrate sufficient financial means.
- Granted to individuals who have obtained a temporary entry permit from a Cypriot consulate abroad.
Benefits of the Visitor Permit in Cyprus
- Extended Residency: Enables non-EU nationals to reside in Cyprus for more than three months, typically for one year, with the option to renew for up to four years.
- Family Inclusion: The main applicant’s spouse and children under 18 are eligible for residency under the same permit.
- Stay Extension: Allows visitors to prolong their stay beyond the initial visa duration.
- Pending Applications: Enables individuals to remain in Cyprus while awaiting approval for permanent residency.
- Path to Citizenship: After legally residing in Cyprus for eight years under a temporary permit, individuals may apply for Cypriot citizenship.
Limitations of the Visitor Permit
- Employment Restrictions: Holders cannot engage in any form of employment in Cyprus, although unpaid directorships may be permitted.
- Continuous Stay Requirement: The permit is automatically revoked if the holder leaves Cyprus for more than three consecutive months.
- For Non-EU Nationals Only: This permit is exclusively available to third-country nationals seeking an extended stay in Cyprus.
Financial Criteria for Obtaining a Visitor Permit
To qualify, applicants must demonstrate a stable income from abroad:
- Minimum Required Income: €2,000 per month (€24,000 per year), transferred from abroad into a Cypriot bank account. Income sources may include salaries, pensions, savings, or other financial assets.
- Additional Family Costs:
- +20% (€4,800 annually) for a spouse
- +15% (€3,600 annually) for each dependent child
Other Requirements
- Proof of Income: Evidence of financial stability from foreign sources.
- Accommodation: A rental contract (minimum one year) or proof of property ownership in Cyprus. Rental agreements must be officially certified and stamped.
- Bank Guarantee: A refundable deposit at a Cyprus bank (ranging from €350 to €850 per applicant, depending on nationality).
- Health Insurance: Coverage from a local or international provider.
- Additional requirements: Certain subsidiary criteria may apply depending on individual circumstances.
How to Apply for a Visitor Permit in Cyprus
- Book an Appointment: Schedule a meeting with the Immigration City Unit before your current visa expires.
- Secure Accommodation: Rent or purchase a qualifying property in Cyprus.
- Open a Bank Account: Transfer the required funds from abroad.
- Prepare Documents: Ensure all required documents are translated into Greek or English and duly certified (e.g., by the issuing country’s foreign affairs ministry or the Cyprus Embassy).
- Attend the Immigration Appointment: Submit your application at the designated Immigration Unit.
- Pay the Fees: Cover the required application costs.
- Provide Biometric Data: Submit fingerprints and photographs.
- Await Processing: The Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in Nicosia will review your application. Approval typically takes around six months, but applicants may legally stay in Cyprus during this period.
- Receive the Residence Card: Upon approval, a temporary residence permit card is issued.
Required Documents for First-Time and Renewal Applications
- Application Form: Completed MVIS6 form for each applicant (including spouses and children).
- Proof of Accommodation: Certified rental or property ownership agreement.
- Bank Statement & Proof of Transfer: Evidence of transferring €24,000 from abroad into a Cypriot bank account (plus additional amounts for dependents).
- Bank Guarantee: Deposit at a Cypriot bank.
- Health Insurance Policy: Valid international or local health insurance coverage.
- Proof of Income: Documentation confirming financial stability from abroad.
- Passport Copy
- Marriage and Birth Certificates (if applicable)
- School Enrollment Confirmation (for dependent children, if applicable)
Additional Requirements for First-Time Applicants
- Criminal Record Certificate: A legalized, Apostille-certified certificate, translated into English, issued by the applicant’s country of residence. The certificate must not be older than six months.
- Medical Examination: A health check, including blood tests and a chest X-ray, must be conducted in Cyprus before submitting the application. Assistance with arranging medical appointments is available.
Processing Time for a Visitor Permit in Cyprus
- Standard Processing Time: Approximately six months. Some cases may be processed in three months, while others may take up to eight months.
- Interim Residency Rights: Applicants may legally remain in Cyprus while their application is under review, even if their original visa expires.
- Approval Notification: The Immigration Office will notify applicants once their permit is ready for collection.
Assistance with Visitor Permit Applications
Navigating the immigration process in Cyprus can be complex, requiring accurate documentation and timely appointments. Professional assistance can simplify the process by ensuring compliance and avoiding unnecessary delays.
Services Offered:
✔️ Assistance with immigration appointments
✔️ Document preparation and review
✔️ Guidance on bank account setup
✔️ Support during immigration office visits
A structured, step-by-step approach ensures transparency and efficiency throughout the application process.
