The official government website has announced the launch of the EU Blue Card programme in Cyprus—a residence permit designed for highly skilled professionals from non-EU countries. Modelled after the U.S. Green Card, the initiative aims to attract talented individuals to the European Union. Applications for the Blue Card are now being accepted, with detailed guidance available from lawyer Alexey Rudenko.

Cyprus is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for qualified professionals from outside the EU. The EU Blue Card grants legal residence and employment rights, tax incentives, and the potential path to citizenship.

More information is available here.

EU Blue Card in Cyprus: 10 Key Questions Answered

1. Which professions qualify?
Eligible sectors include IT, pharmaceuticals, research, and shipping (excluding crew members). Applicants must hold a recognised university degree and have an employment contract for at least one year.

2. What is the minimum salary requirement?
€43,632 per year (as of 2025).

3. Who is not eligible to apply?
Asylum seekers, individuals under temporary protection, researchers under other EU directives, posted workers, and undocumented migrants, among others.

4. Where can you apply?
Applications must be submitted in person at the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia.

5. What is the processing time?
Up to 90 days for new applicants. For holders of a valid EU Blue Card issued by another Member State, the process takes up to 30 days.

6. Can you travel within the EU?
Yes, short-term stays (up to 90 days) are permitted. Long-term mobility is possible after 12 months of legal residence in Cyprus. As Cyprus is not part of the Schengen Area, additional procedures may apply for accompanying family members.

7. Can family members relocate with the applicant?
Yes, spouses and children are granted residence permits for the same duration as the primary Blue Card holder.

8. Is it possible to change employers?
During the first 12 months, changing employers is allowed only after notifying the immigration authorities and waiting 30 days following the submission of the request.

9. Are there any tax incentives?
Yes, for employment that commenced after July 2023, up to 50% of income may be exempt from personal income tax.

10. Does the Blue Card lead to citizenship?
Yes, provided the applicant is employed by a company included on the approved investment list (Decision No. 92.018 dated 15.10.2021).

Required Documents for Submitting an EU Blue Card Application in Cyprus

To apply for an EU Blue Card in Cyprus, the following documents are required:
• A recognised university degree
• Valid passport
• Employment contract from a Cypriot employer
• Proof of income
• Health insurance and relevant medical certificates
• Police clearance certificate (certificate of no criminal record)

The full list of required documents (in English) is available at this link

You can download the application form and carefully review all related documents and instructions here

Alexey Rudenko

Premium members of the Vestnik Kipra Readers’ Club are eligible for a free consultation with Alexey Rudenko on this matter.
For appointments and information about joining the club, please contact Angelika at: club@vkcyprus.com