ARC number in Cyprus
Updated:
ARC stands for Alien Registration Certificate. The ARC number is the registration number Cyprus assigns to a foreign national who registers with the immigration authorities, similar to a citizen's ID number. People also call it the alien registration number or ARC ID.
The number confirms your identity and your registration with the aliens' registry. It is required for stays over 3 months. The ARC is not a permit itself, but it is issued with one.
The ARC number and card are not issued independently. They will be issued along with your:
- Registration certificate (the yellow slip), if you are an EU/EEA national, or
- Residence permit for third-country nationals. The residence permit can be either temporary (e.g., for students) or permanent (e.g., for investors).
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Why do you need an ARC number in Cyprus?
EU/EEA nationals require the ARC card and number to obtain a registration certificate and reside and work in the Republic.
Third-country nationals must register and obtain an ARC number and card to obtain lawful residence in the Republic.
Who can obtain an alien card?
All foreign nationals who wish to reside in the Republic, either long-term or short-term.
How to apply for an ARC number in Cyprus?
The documents required for the ARC number application may vary depending on the type of residence permit you are applying for.
Typically, the documents will include:
- The application form (varies depending on the residence permit)
- Copy of a valid passport
- Marriage certificate and children’s birth certificates, if relevant
- Employment contract, if relevant (for example, you don't need it if you are applying for permanent residence by investment)
- Sales or rent contract for residence
- Bank statement showing account movement
- Health insurance certificate
Documents must be in Greek, English, or translated into one of these languages. If translated, they need to be apostilled or verified at the Cyprus embassy in your country.
You will need to provide biometric evidence, that is, a photograph and fingerprints.
Where to submit the application?
Applications must be submitted to the Migration Department of the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection.
The address is 90 Archbishop Makarios III Avenue, 1077 Nicosia.
Legal aspects of the Cyprus ARC number
The ARC verifies your identification and confirms that you have legally entered the Republic and registered with the aliens’ registry.
However, an ARC is not:
- A residence permit
- An employment permit
- Health coverage card
- Visa for entry and/or stay in the Republic
A temporary residency or permanent residence permit must accompany the ARC.
Where to find your ARC number
Your ARC number is printed on the document issued with it, not in your passport. EU/EEA nationals find it on the registration certificate (yellow slip). Third-country nationals find it on the residence permit card.
Cyprus has no public website for looking up an ARC number. If you have lost the document, report the loss to the police, then contact the Migration Department with your file number to retrieve the number and apply for a replacement.
Frequently asked questions
What is the ARC number in Cyprus?
The ARC number in Cyprus is assigned to foreign nationals when they register with the Immigration Services. It is similar to the ID card number for Cypriot citizens. All foreigners staying in Cyprus for more than three months must register and obtain an ARC, regardless of whether they are EU/EEA or third-country nationals.
Then, EU nationals can obtain a registration certificate, provided they are employed in the Republic or can show sufficient means of support. Third-country nationals can apply for a temporary or permanent residence permit.
What is the validity period of the Alien Card?
The validity period of the alien card depends on the type of permit. Registration for an ARC happens once and costs 70 euros. However, the validity of the residence card depends. For family members of EU/EEA citizens, for example, the period is five years. For permanent residence by investment, the permit is valid indefinitely; however, the residence card must be renewed every ten years.
How long does it take to process the Alien Card?
Processing time depends on the permit category and the district office. Registration certificates for EU/EEA nationals are often issued faster. Third-country residence permit cards can take several weeks to a few months, and busier offices, such as those in Limassol and Nicosia, are on the longer end.
Check current waiting times with the Migration Department when you apply.
Do EU citizens need an Alien Certificate (Cyprus ARC number)?
Yes, EU citizens need an ARC number and a Registration Certificate if they plan to stay in the Republic for more than three months. Additionally, they must demonstrate employment in the Republic or sufficient means of support to obtain a registration certificate.
Is there a fee for the ARC number?
You will pay 70 euros for the ARC in Cyprus.
Within what timeframe should I apply for an ARC after arriving in Cyprus?
EU/EEA nationals should apply for the registration certificate within four months of arriving, once they plan to stay longer than three months. If your country has a 90-day visa-free arrangement with Cyprus, apply before that period ends.
If you are not an EU/EEA national nor entitled to a 90-day visa-free, you can only come to Cyprus with a visitor’s visa. In such a case, you need to apply for an ARC before your visa expires.
Is enrolling for GeSY allowed with an ARC number?
Your ARC number is the identifier GeSY (the General Healthcare System) uses to register you, so you need it. You do not need permanent residence. What matters is lawful residence with a qualifying status, for example, employment or an EU registration certificate. The Health Insurance Organisation sets who qualifies as a beneficiary.