Acquiring Cyprus Citizenship by Descent: A Comprehensive Guide
Last Updated on 5 January 2025
Have Cypriot roots?
You may be eligible for Cyprus citizenship through your ancestry.
This guide covers everything you need to know about acquiring EU citizenship via descent in Cyprus.
What Makes Cyprus So Attractive?
Known for its breathtaking scenery and tax advantages, Cyprus is a popular destination for high-net-worth individuals looking to reduce taxes while enjoying a high standard of living in the EU.
The process of naturalization normally takes 5-7 years, but it can be much faster for those of Cypriot descent.
Cyprus boasts influences from various empires and cultures. Today, tourism and financial services drive the economy.
The official languages are Greek and Turkish, with English being widely spoken.
If you have Cypriot ancestry, citizenship by descent offers many benefits with minimal hassle.
Let’s explore further.
Acquiring Citizenship by Descent
Cyprus mainly grants citizenship by jus sanguinis (right of blood) rather than birthplace.
In most cases, having a Cypriot parent is enough to acquire citizenship, regardless of your place of birth. Exceptions may occur if the parents were illegal migrants.
Complexities can arise for Turkish Cypriots in Northern Cyprus marrying Turkish nationals, since the self-declared state is only recognized by Turkey. Still, the law applies island-wide.
Applying for Citizenship by Descent
Despite relaxed eligibility rules, you must submit the appropriate application form based on your situation.
The main forms are:
- M71: UK citizens of Cypriot descent
- M72: Non-UK commonwealth citizens of Cypriot descent
- M121: For birth certificates
- M123: Adults with foreign parents
- M124: Commonwealth citizens residing in Cyprus
- M126: Minor children of Cypriots
Each form has its own documentary requirements, application fees, and submission process. Consult the official immigration website for specifics.
| Form | Who Should Submit |
|---|---|
| M121 | For individuals born abroad after August 1960 to a Cypriot citizen father or after June 1999 to a Cypriot mother. |
| M123 | For adults born after August 1960 to foreign parents, those who became British after the Cyprus Annexation Orders 1914-1943, and adults born in Cyprus between November 1914 and August 1960. |
| M124 | For adults of Cypriot descent, born before August 1960, who are British/Commonwealth citizens and have lived in Cyprus for over a year. |
| M126 | For minors with a Cypriot mother and foreign father born before June 1999, those whose father gained citizenship after birth, and those whose parents naturalized through marriage. |
| M71 | For persons born before August 1960 to Cypriot fathers, who are now UK/colony citizens living abroad. |
| M72 | For individuals born before August 1960 to Cypriot fathers who are not UK/colony citizens. |
Gathering Documents
Typical documents include:
- Birth certificates
- Marriage certificates
- Passport copies
- Proof of registration
- Declarations
- Payment receipts
Get documents from abroad certified by the relevant ministry and embassy. The exact requirements depend on the form.
Benefits of Cypriot Citizenship
Favorable Tax Regime
Cyprus offers attractive tax benefits like low personal and corporate tax rates, exemptions for dividends and foreign income, and deductions for business owners.
Visa-Free Travel
The Cypriot passport provides visa-free access to 168 countries, including the entire EU and many Asian nations. It’s currently ranked #21 globally in the Nomad Passport Index.
EU Membership
As an EU member state since 2004, Cyprus confers all the rights and privileges of EU citizenship. Live, work, and study freely anywhere in the EU.
Commonwealth Ties
Cyprus is also part of the Commonwealth, so citizens can live and work in the UK with minimal bureaucracy.
Conclusion
Reconnecting with your roots and acquiring EU citizenship are straightforward in Cyprus.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Cyprus allow dual citizenship?
Yes, Cyprus permits dual nationality without issue.
Does Cyprus have a citizenship by investment program?
Cyprus previously allowed citizenship by investment starting in 2013, but the controversial scheme was suspended indefinitely in 2020. A residence by investment program still exists.
