Introduction

The Cyprus Start-Up Visa Programme provides entrepreneurs and senior executives with the opportunity to reside and work in Cyprus while establishing or scaling an innovative, high-growth business.

Alongside residency rights, the programme offers access to corporate and personal tax efficiencies, as well as a structured route toward long-term residence and , subject to meeting the relevant criteria.

This article outlines how the programme operates, who is eligible, and the benefits available to founders and executive teams.

What Is the Cyprus Start-Up Visa Programme?

The Cyprus Start-Up Visa Programme is designed to attract skilled entrepreneurs from outside the EU and EEA, either as individuals or as part of a team, to establish, operate, and develop innovative start-ups in Cyprus.

The programme supports businesses with strong growth potential and aims to:

• Create new employment opportunities in Cyprus
• Promote innovation and research
• Strengthen the local business ecosystem
• Contribute to the country’s long-term economic development

Definition of an Innovative Start-Up

For the purposes of the programme, an innovative start-up is defined as a business that:

• Is a small, unlisted enterprise
• Was registered within the last five years
• Has not distributed profits
• Has not been formed through a merger

The business must develop or offer new or significantly improved products, services, or processes that:

• Create or disrupt markets,
• Are based on new or adapted technologies, or
• Introduce innovative business models.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants may apply under one of the following two routes.

Individual Start-Up Visa Scheme

This route applies to:

• A sole founder who is a non-EU/EEA national
• The founder must actively establish, operate, and develop the innovative start-up

Team Start-Up Visa Scheme

This route applies to:

• Teams of up to five non-EU/EEA nationals
• Teams may consist of founders only, or at least one founder together with senior executive members

Ownership and Capital Requirements

Under both routes:

• The founder and/or team must collectively hold at least 25% of the company’s shares
• The start-up must have minimum available capital of:
  • €20,000 for teams, or
  • €10,000 where there are fewer than two founders

Residency Rights Under the Programme

Successful applicants are granted a residence permit valid for three years, with the possibility of renewal for further two-year periods, provided the relevant criteria continue to be met.

Permit holders are entitled to:

• Reside in Cyprus
• Work in their own start-up, either as self-employed founders or salaried executives
• Engage in full business activity related to their registered company

Employment of Non-EU Nationals

Start-ups approved under the programme may employ:

• Up to 50% non-EU nationals of their total workforce

In addition, companies may recruit further foreign personnel if their investment in Cyprus equals or exceeds €150,000. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for scaling technology-driven and specialised businesses.

Renewal of the Start-Up Residency Permit

At the end of the initial three-year period, the start-up must demonstrate that it has achieved measurable progress in order for the residence permits to be renewed.

At least one of the following criteria must be met:

• 15% revenue growth
• Securing €150,000 or more in external investment
• Employment of at least three Cypriot nationals
• Participation in a recognised local innovation support scheme
• Launch of at least one product or service

These benchmarks provide flexibility while ensuring that approved businesses deliver tangible economic value.

Tax-Efficient Benefits of the Cyprus Start-Up Visa Programme

Cyprus’ and remain a key consideration for founders and executive teams relocating under the Start-Up Visa Programme.

The key points to note are that Cyprus tax-resident companies benefit from a highly attractive and a globally competitive , while entrepreneurs and executives who become Cyprus tax residents may benefit from.

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 and our

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.

We provide:

• Guidance on eligibility and registration
• Full corporate services, including incorporation and administration
• Immigration support for work and residency permits
• Ongoing compliance and advisory assistance

If you are considering moving to Cyprus using the Start-Up Visa route, 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.