Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa
In this article
Cyprus is a beautiful island country located in the Mediterranean that recently launched
a digital nomad visa program. This makes it one of the EU countries to recently
open its doors to foreign remote workers. And not only that, it is considered to be one of the
best European countries for expats.
The visa scheme allows non-EU and non-EEA citizens to reside in Cyprus for remote work.
The Cyprus digital nomad visa stands out from others because it allows you to bring your family
and because its application fee is very cheap. You'll find out more about this visa and how to
apply as you keep reading.
Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Overview
Cyprus' digital nomad visa, officially known as the “digital nomad visa scheme,” was launched in
October 2021. It grants temporary residence to foreigners from non-EU and non-EEA countries who can
work remotely. It was initially capped at 100 permits but was increased to 500 in March 2022.
The scheme allows digital nomads to reside in Cyprus for a year, which can be renewed for another
two years. Its goal is to make Cyprus an electronic service provision hub.
Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Requirements: Who Is Eligible to Apply?
You must meet the following requirements to be eligible for a Cyprus digital nomad visa.
- You must be a citizen of a non-EU and non-EEA country.
- You must work for a company registered abroad or work independently with clients abroad.
- Your work must be fully online.
- You must have a sufficient monthly net income of at least €3500 ($3716.23).
Required Paperwork
You must provide the following supporting documentation when applying for a visa:
- Completed, signed, and notarized application form.
- Valid passport (with at least three months validity).
- Two white-background passport-sized photos.
- Proof of remote work: You must provide an employment contract or business documents showing that you work remotely.
- Proof of sufficient income: You must provide bank statements or payslips showing that you earn at least $3,716.23 monthly. If you're coming with a spouse the required minimum income is $4,450.70, and $5,118.30 if accompanied by a spouse and a dependent. The income requirement increases by 15% for each additional dependent.
- Letter of Intent stating your reasons for wanting to live in Cyprus.
- Proof of health insurance: You must have a $32,000 minimum health insurance coverage in Cyprus.
- Certified criminal background check from your home country.
- Address of Accommodations: Sales or rental agreement for arranged accommodation in Cyprus.
- Updated CV or resume.
How to Apply? Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for a Cyprus digital nomad visa is easy. However, there’s no provision
for online submissions. You’ll have to submit your applications at the Cyprus consulate closest
to you. Here are the steps for submitting your application:
Step One: Gather all the required documents. You need to have all the necessary documents
listed above before submitting your application.
Step Two: Schedule an appointment at the Cyprus consulate in your country.
Step Three: Complete and submit the application. Download the application form from the
Cyprus immigration website, print it out, complete it, and sign it. Notarize your signature, pay the
application fee, and submit the application at the Cypriot embassy.
Step Four: Wait for a decision. You'll typically get a response within 8 weeks.
Step Five: Travel to Cyprus and apply for a residence permit.
How Much Does the Digital Nomad Visa Scheme Cost?
The application fee for the digital nomad visa scheme is $75. Renewing the visa costs the same.
Processing Time For the Digital Nomad Visa Scheme
The application processing time for Cyprus digital nomads can take up to two to three months.
The government website says you should expect a response within 8 weeks.
How Long Is It Valid and Can It Be Renewed?
The Cyprus remote worker visa is valid for one year, but it can be renewed for another two years.
You’ll have to submit a renewal application one month before the expiration of your visa.
Can You Bring Family Members?
Cyprus is one of the few countries that allows digital nomads to come with family members.
However, they cannot work or engage in any business while in Cyprus. You can come with:
- Your spouse or civil partner.
- Your dependent children (below 18 years old).
How to Get Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Residence Permit?
You can travel to Cyprus immediately after your visa is approved. However, you must visit the
Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia for a temporary residence permit within three
months of arrival. The documents required for a digital nomad residence permit are:
1. A copy of your passport showing your date of arrival in Cyprus
2. If you are an employee:
- Employment contract covering the duration of the visa
- A written document from your employer confirming that you can perform your duties remotely
- A stamped copy of your employer's registration certificate
- A document containing details of your work and role in the company
3. If you are self-employed:
- Proof that you have client contracts covering the duration of the visa
- Proof that your work is fully remote
- Original criminal record certificate
- Proof that you meet the minimum income requirement (bank statements or payslips)
- Proof of Accommodation (sales or rent agreement)
- Proof of health insurance covering inpatient and outpatient care.
- Proof that you are medically sound (blood analysis and chest x-ray results).
4. Letter of affirmation that you or any accompanying dependents will not work for Cyprus-based
companies or clients.
Taxes for Digital Nomads
Cyprus has a convenient tax structure. Depending on how long you stay in Cyprus, you may or may not
be expected to pay income tax. You are considered a tax residents if you reside in Cyprus for 183
days or more in the same year. You are only exempt from this rule if you are a tax resident in
another country.
The personal income tax requirements are:
- 0 to €19,500 - 0% tax
- €19,501 to €28,000 -20% tax
- €28,001 to €36,300 - 25% tax
- €36,301 to €60,000 - 30% tax
- €60,001 and above -35% tax
Living in Cyprus as a Digital Nomad: Essentials
Cyprus is a great destination for digital nomads. The Mediterranean country is beautiful, warm,
packed with historical and cultural monuments, and has all the essentials for a digital nomad
lifestyle. Plus, you do not have to worry about language because most Cypriots speak English.
Living Costs
The cost of living in Cyprus is affordable. Rent in Nicosia is cheaper than in most cities in the US
and Europe. A furnished one-bedroom apartment costs around $780 in the city center and $650 outside
the center. You’ll get an 85-m2 apartment with basic utilities for $180.
Food costs are also affordable. Basic menus in fast-food restaurants cost $8; a full lunch, including
drinks, costs about $16. You can stop for groceries at the local markets to cook your own meals.
You’ll get a loaf of white bread and a liter of milk for about $2 each, a bottle of water for $1,
and 1kg of cheese for $10.
Public transportation in Cyprus is by buses and taxis; there are no trains or trams. The cities are
small, so you can move around on foot or bike; you only need buses or taxis for intercity trips.
A one-way ticket costs $2, and a taxi ride of one kilometer costs $1. You can also rent a car. A liter
of gasoline costs about $2.
Best Places for Digital Nomads
Some of the best locations for remote workers in Cyprus are:
- Nicosia: Cyprus’ capital city is the topmost digital nomad hub. There are several coworking spaces and many cafes where you can work. Its modern and historical sites will keep you occupied during your leisure. You can visit places like the
- Limassol: This beautiful city presents the ultimate mix of work and tourism. There are beautiful beaches, museums, and ancient castles that date back to the Byzantine era.
- Paphos: It is Cyprus’ hub of culture and history. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and has been voted the best over and over again. You can visit the medieval Paphos castle and the Old Town.
- Lanarca: The wine capital of Cyprus, it is known for its sandy beaches and delicious food and wine. There are numerous cafes and coffee shops where you can work.
Popular Digital Nomad Co-Working Spaces
The top co-working spaces in Cyprus are:
- Hugge co-working
- The Business Bar
- AtWorks
- iDesk.Space
Internet Quality
Internet quality is good in Cyprus. Mobile internet is available in cities and suburbs, but 3G
and 4G coverage are limited in rural areas. The primary internet providers are Cytanet, MTN,
and PrimeTel. A prepaid SIM card costs $16.
Benefits of Digital Nomad Life in Cyprus
The Cyprus digital nomad visa scheme has a lot to offer remote workers. Some of the benefits include
- Great weather: Cyprus' Mediterranean climate guarantees pleasant warm weather all year round.
- Affordable: The cost of living in Cyprus is very affordable.
- Language ease: Even if you cannot speak Greek and Turkish, you’ll still get by because many Cypriots speak fluent English.
- Good internet: Internet connection in Cyprus’ cities is suitable for remote work.
- Family: Unlike most digital nomad visas, this one allows you to come with your family members.
- Tourist destinations: Cyprus abounds with beautiful historical and cultural monuments. You can visit places like the Kolossi castle, the underwater museum, Kourion, the house of Dynosius, Athalassa national park, Macairas Monastery, and many others.
- Delicious cuisine: You’ll enjoy Cyprus' delicious traditional cuisines like halloumi, sheltalies, souvla, and souvlaki.
FAQs
1. How long is the processing time for the Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa?
The official processing time stated by Cyprus’ government is five to seven weeks. However, it can take up to two to three months, depending on where you’re applying from.2. How much does Cyprus' Digital Nomad Visa cost?
Cyprus’ digital nomad visa application costs €70 ($75).
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