Cyprus launches visa for non-EU remote workers
NICOSIA, CYPRUS — Cyprus has officially introduced a new visa aimed at non-European Union and non-European Economic Area citizens wishing to live and work remotely on the Mediterranean island.
This Digital Nomad Visa offers an initial one-year stay that can be extended for two additional years, appealing particularly to professionals with technological skills or jobs that can be conducted from anywhere.
Visa requirements and benefits
To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must prove a stable and sufficient monthly net income of at least €3500 ($3800), hold valid health insurance, and present a clean criminal background.
The visa permits the inclusion of immediate family members, although they are not allowed to work or start a business in Cyprus during their stay.
Application process
Prospective nomads must submit all necessary documentation to the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia within 90 days of their arrival.
The application fee is €70 ($76), and the review process typically takes about seven weeks, provided all paperwork is complete and accurate. Those already in Cyprus can switch to the digital nomad scheme if they are under a different legal status.
Benefits for Cyprus
This visa scheme is part of Cyprus’ broader strategy to attract tech-savvy talent and integrate remote professionals into its digital ecosystem.
“The Scheme’s goal is to strengthen Cyprus as a centre for the provision of electronic services, where in combination with the other advantages offered by Cyprus, the attraction of digital nomads will contribute to the development of the business ecosystem and consequently to the economic development of the country,” the Cyprus government announced on its website.
By offering year-round sunshine, affordable living costs, and access to EU healthcare services, Cyprus aims to compete with other popular digital nomad destinations like Greece.
Other destinations that offer digital nomad visas are New Zealand, Kenya, Spain, Italy, Portugal, Thailand, Taiwan, Turkiye, Japan, South Africa, other cities in China, and Jeju Island in South Korea.
