Introduction

The Cyprus Temporary Residence Permit, commonly known as the “Pink Slip” or the “Self Sufficiency route”, allows non-EU nationals to remain in Cyprus for more than 90 days without the right to work. It is issued for one year and can be renewed annually, provided the eligibility criteria continue to be met.

Family members may also be included as dependants, making the Pink Slip a popular option for non-EU nationals and their families wishing to reside in Cypruson a long-term, non-employment basis.

Overview of the Pink Slip?

A Pink Slip permits the holder to live in Cyprus as a visitor, with no employment rights.

Key features include:

• Annual residence permit, renewable each year
• No right to work in Cyprus
• Dependants (spouse and children under 18) may apply together
• Each family member receives an individual residence card

Key Restrictions

Pink Slip holders should be aware of the following limitations:

• Absence from Cyprus for more than three consecutive months may result in permit cancellation
• Employment of any kind in Cyprus is not permitted
• The permit is available only to non-EU nationals

Validity and Renewals

The Pink Slip is valid for one year and may be renewed annually.

If the applicant’s passport expires earlier, the permit will be issued to expire three months before the passport expiry date.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify, applicants must demonstrate that they can support themselves financially without working in Cyprus.

Key requirements include:

• Foreign-sourced income of at least €24,000 per year for a single applicant
  • Increased by 20% for a spouse
  • Increased by 15% for each child
• Accommodation in Cyprus (owned or rented for a minimum of one year)
• Health insurance
• Medical examinations (first application only)
• Bank guarantee issued by a Cyprus bank

Income may be derived from employment abroad, pensions, investments, or bank deposits.

Application and Renewal Process

Applications are submitted to the Immigration Unit of the city of residence in Cyprus. Once filed, applicants may legally remain in Cyprus until the application is processed.

In 2026, processing times are approximately six months. Once approved, the Pink Slip is valid for one year from the approval date.

Renewals follow a similar process to the initial application. Applicants must provide updated documentation, including:

• Evidence of continued foreign income (€24,000 per year minimum for a single applicant)
• Updated bank statements and SWIFT confirmations
• Renewed rental agreement
• Valid health insurance

Medical examinations and criminal record certificates are not required for renewals.

Key Benefits for individuals

This application gives Non-EU citizens a clear and relatively in expensive route to residency and those that are granted residency may benefit from the Non-Domicile (Non-Dom) regime.

A key long-term benefit is that five years of continuous legal residence may lead to long-term resident status, while eight years of residence may allow an application for Cypriot citizenship, subject to meeting the applicable criteria.

Important Note: Cyprus Tax Residency

Residency for immigration purposes does not automatically confer tax residency. If you wish to understand tax residency rules and associated benefits, please review our Tax Residency article and our Non-Domicile article.

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.