Introduction

The Cyprus Category F Residence Permit (often called the Slow Track Permit) is a form of permanent residency available to non-EU nationals who can demonstrate a secured annual income from abroad. It allows individuals and their immediate family members to live in Cyprus without the right to work, and no property investment is required, even a rental agreement is sufficient.

This route is often suitable for retirees and financially independent individuals seeking long-term residence in Cyprus. However, as the name suggests this route can take a very long time with the authorities currently requesting updated information for applications from 2019.

Overview of the Category F Permit

Category F is a permanent residence status, subject to ongoing compliance with the conditions of the permit.

Key features include:

• No requirement to work or invest in Cyprus
• Income must be foreign-sourced
• Rental or owned accommodation is acceptable
• Residence permit is of unlimited duration
• Residence card is issued for 10 years and renewed thereafter

Applicants should note that a temporary residence permit is required in order to live in Cyprus while a Category F application is pending.

Processing Time – Important Note

As of 2026, processing times for Category F applications cannot be reliably estimated. The Migration Department is currently examining applications submitted several years earlier, although eligibility criteria remain unchanged and applications continue to be accepted.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, the applicant must demonstrate:

• Secured annual income of at least €9,568, sourced entirely from abroad
• An additional €4,613 per dependent

Acceptable income sources include:

• Dividends
• Interest
• Rental income
• Pensions

Applicants must also:

• Rent or own residential property in Cyprus
• Hold a Cyprus bank account
• Confirm that they will not work in Cyprus

The Category F permit may also include Dependants such as a spouse and Children under 18 years of age. Parents and other relatives cannot be included as dependants. For dependants under 18, the permit remains valid until they reach adulthood.

Note: While the statutory income threshold is relatively low, it may not be sufficient to cover actual living costs in Cyprus. This should be considered carefully when planning an application.

Documentation Requirements (Summary)

Applications must be supported by standard documentation, including:

• Completed Category F application form (MIP2)
• Valid passports
• Proof of secured foreign income (with affidavit)
• Cyprus bank statements
• Rental agreement or proof of property ownership
• Clean criminal record certificate
• Civil status documents (marriage and birth certificates, if applicable)

Documents must be in Greek or English,  or accompanied by certified translations. Foreign documents must generally be apostilled or legally certified, depending on country of origin.

Note: This list is not all inclusive as the immigration authorities reserve the right to ask for additional documentation as they see fit.

Submission and Biometrics

Applications are submitted to the Migration Department in Nicosia, either:

• In person, or
• Through an authorised representative

Biometric data (fingerprints and photographs) is required for applicants and dependants over the age of six.

Conditions and Cancellation of Status

The Category F residence permit may be cancelled if the holder:

• Is absent from Cyprus for two consecutive years
• Obtains permanent residence in another country
• Fails to secure accommodation in Cyprus within one year of approval

Permit holders and their families must also maintain a clean criminal record.

How Can Dixcart Help?

With over 50 years of international advisory experience, Dixcart Cyprus helps clients establish a smooth and compliant path to relocating themselves, their families, or their business operations.

In addition to residency registration, Dixcart Cyprus offers comprehensive support for your wider financial and administrative needs, including:

• Tax registration and annual tax return preparation
• Immigration support for EU and non-EU family members
• Advice on residency-related obligations and rights

We provide tailored guidance to make both relocation and ongoing compliance as straightforward as possible.

If you are considering moving to Cyprus, our team can help you evaluate the most suitable approach. To discuss your plans or explore whether this route is right for you, please contact us at advice.cyprus@dixcart.com.

We will be pleased to support you with clear guidance and practical solutions tailored to your needs.