The Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Scheme is a remote work policy used across the European Union that was introduced by a Council of Ministers Decision on 15 October 2021. The EU describes the scheme as “teleworking for third-country nationals”.
In 2023 applicants obtain a Cyprus Digital Nomad visa by proving that they:
- work remotely in the IT sector while residing in Cyprus;
- work for an employer or clients from abroad;
- have an income of at least EUR 3,500 net;
- have a suitable place to stay in Cyprus.
On March 3, 2022, the government placed a ceiling of 500 digital nomad residence permits. This ceiling has now been reached. Therefore, we advise you to apply for the pink slip or an employment residence permit. The pink slip allows you to live but not work in Cyprus: your income must come from abroad. The employment residence permit allows you to work: your employer must be based in Cyprus and apply to the Civil Registry and Migration Department.
What is a Cyprus Digital Nomad visa?
Cyprus Digital Nomad visa scheme applies to non-EU/EEA country nationals who work in Cyprus for an employer such as a company registered abroad or for their clients located abroad. Therefore, the applicant can either be an employee or be self-employed.
The scheme provides a residence permit and aims to attract talented individuals and entrepreneurs who can work remotely and contribute to economic expansion using their technological skills. The work and effort of such individuals help to develop what the Ministry of the Interior calls “the business ecosystem” of the country.
Basic information
The Digital Nomad residence permit is valid for one year with a possibility of renewal for another two years. The digital nomad will live in Cyprus, work remotely, and be location-independent.
His/her family members can reside in Cyprus for the same amount of time as the digital nomad. The family members can be a spouse or partner in a civil union and underaged children. However, they must not engage in economic activity while in Cyprus.
Cyprus Digital Nomad taxes
Provided the digital nomad is not a tax resident of another country, he/she can be considered a tax resident of Cyprus. This is so if he/she resides for a total of 183 days in Cyprus within the same tax year (1 January to 31 December; the tax year coincides with the calendar year).
Digital Nomads as tax residents can claim benefits as follows:
- No tax on dividend income or capital gains from the sale or transfer of shares, bonds, and other financial instruments.
- An exception of 50% tax applies to foreign workers earning EUR 55,000 and above per year.
Requirements for a Cyprus Digital Nomad visa
Upon arrival, the applicant has three months to submit his/her application and documents to the Civil Registry and Migration Department. It is advisable for the applicant to enter Cyprus with a tourist visa.
If the applicant is already residing in Cyprus under a different status, he/she will still be eligible, provided that he/she fulfills the applicable criteria.
These criteria are that a digital nomad in Cyprus should:
- Use telecommunications technology to perform work remotely while residing in Cyprus.
- Work for an employer or clients from abroad (see above); and,
- Prove that he/she has an income of at least EUR 3,500, which is stable and sufficient for the applicant to live. The EUR 3,500 is net, but contribution and taxes must be deduced.
Note: The above amount is increased by 20% for the spouse or partner and by 15% for each child.
Moreover, the applicant must show that he/she has a suitable place to stay. Among the documents required when you apply for the digital nomad visa is a title deed or rental for a house or apartment (please see the Civil Registry and Migration Department list of documents in the link below).
List of required documents
- Application form: MVIS4 (PDF, 149 KB)
- Copy of valid passport for applicant and family members
- Copy of the visa used to enter Cyprus and stamps showing the last arrival
- Certificate of blood tests (done in Cyprus)
The applicant should not suffer from hepatitis B and C, HIV, or syphilis. Not needed for children under six years.
- An X-ray for tuberculosis
Not needed for children under six years.
- Health insurance
Covering inpatient and outpatient care and transportation of corpses.
- Title deed or rental agreement of a house/apartment
- Marriage Certificate and birth certificates for children *
- Clear Criminal Record for the applicant and spouse from the country of origin or residence, not older than six months *
- School attendance confirmation (for children)
- Income documents
- A letter of intent explaining why the applicant wishes to work in Cyprus and their reasons for staying and working abroad
*Translated in English and have Apostille or Cyprus embassy Stamp. If issued in Russia, there is no need for any legalization; translation can be arranged in Cyprus.
No medical examinations are required for children under six years of age.
For employees
For self-employment
- Contract(s) for a project or of services with a duration of at least equal to the requested residence permit.
Proof of monthly income
- Official proof of salary payment showing the net income, and
- Bank statements of the last 6 months showing payment of salary or income.
Government fees
The applicant is expected to pay fees as follows.
Residence permit application fee: €70 for each family member.
For initial registration at the Aliens’ Registry: a fee of €70 is payable only once.
Application processing time
Digital nomad visas can be obtained within 5-7 weeks.
Once you apply for the digital nomad visa in Cyprus, you are allowed to stay until the residence permit is issued.
Our services
Our Law Firm will undertake the entire procedure for your application to make sure it runs smoothly. We will book the date for the meeting for submission, prepare application forms, advice on required documents, attend the meeting with you, follow the application process, receive the immigration permit cards, and deliver them to you.
Why would Cyprus be one of the best hubs for digital nomads?
There are many reasons why Cyprus is an excellent choice for the digital nomad lifestyle and remote working. These concern the country itself, the services provided and the surrounding environment.
Cyprus is Europe’s sunniest island, boasting some of Europe's most stunning and clean beaches.
The food is fantastic, and there is a large availability of restaurants, taverns and eateries. You can shop locally or opt for supermarket chains. Amenities are close to cities, villages and the countryside.
Moreover, people speak English and are used to meeting people from across the world. Life is easygoing. Cyprus is, additionally, a good place to bring up a family.
If you are interested in history, coming to Cyprus is your first choice. The island’s history goes back to the epics of Homer and the Bible. You can go to museums and exhibitions, or simply stroll in the “old town” section of every major city!
A second reason to choose Cyprus is the effectiveness of the technology infrastructure. There are quality internet providers and services to match. Moreover, each city has coworking spaces, with the calm surroundings a professional needs. Some coworking spaces offer desks, wi-fi, parking and Skype, and conference and events rooms. Alternatively, cafés in Cyprus are all furnished with Wi-Fi. There is a developed coffee culture, so people use the café for their digital work.
The legal machinery on the island is another advantage. Company formation is easy. There are clear legal rules about matters that concern you most– for example, renting or buying property, residence permits, financial affairs and sale of goods. Cyprus maintains the tradition of British common law, while the EU governs its financial regulations. This contributes to the stability of the system.
Finally, the island has an established community of digital nomads and entrepreneurs. You will quickly meet people who share your interests and experiences.
Best places in Cyprus for digital nomads
Digital nomads often flock to Nicosia, the capital and financial hub of the island.
However, each of the major cities has its own attractions. Limassol is a cosmopolitan Eastern Mediterranean port and a maritime and financial hotspot. Its long stretch of seafront avenue is full of spaces for remote, digital work. Paphos has a large ex-pat community close to the mountain and the sea. Though quiet and relaxed, it is a place where one can easily find accommodation and digital services. The same goes for Larnaca, another calm seaport city.
The countryside and villages are also options. Life there is cheaper, while internet infrastructure is available in all areas.
In summary, choosing where to live depends on your outlook and lifestyle. Your lawyer and/or estate agent will provide reliable guidance and advice.
What’s the cost of living in Cyprus as a digital nomad?
Your main expenses will include rental costs, food, transportation, school and healthcare. Here, we go through them one by one!
Rent varies in Cyprus depending on location and the type of rental property. Note, however, that prices are rising. The Cyprus Mail reports the following rates (in EUR) for a single-bedroom apartment:
- 500-600 Nicosia
- 800-900 Limassol
- 400-500 Larnaca
- 350-450 Paphos.
The latest data (March 2023) for basic goods mention milk (full fat, 2 L) at 3,02 on average, sliced white bread 900-1000gr at 1,92, and 12 eggs at 3,45. Bottled water (12x500 ml) is 3,03-2,74 on average. A meal for two at a restaurant costs about EUR 50.
The prices for food can be accessed at the Cyprus Consumer Protection Service.
Fuel (unleaded 95) is 1,4 per litre on average. Transportation is an issue. Trains do not exist, and bus services are infrequent; you must have a car.
English-speaking schools are private, of high level and tend to be expensive.
Healthcare is free with the national health system (Gesy, GHS). It is available to TCNs who possess a residence permit. See here: Cyprus Health Insurance Organisation.
