Cyprus Start-up Visa

The Cyprus Startup Visa allows eligible non-EU and non-EEA entrepreneurs to enter, reside and work in Cyprus to establish, operate or develop an innovative startup with high growth potential. Our team assists applicants throughout the Cyprus Startup Visa application process, from initial approval and business plan preparation to the residence permit stage.

Cyprus Startup Visa Eligibility

The Cyprus Startup Visa is designed for innovative entrepreneurs looking to bring new or groundbreaking products and services to the market. The Cyprus Startup Visa is available to non-EU and non-EEA entrepreneurs establishing, operating or developing an innovative startup with high growth potential in Cyprus. The scheme is available to an individual founder or a team of up to five eligible individuals.

Cyprus Startup Visa Application Process

Step 1: Initial Approval for the Startup

Submit the application to the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy.
  • Send application to the Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy.
  • Business Plan required (15+ pages).
Reviewing Period:
Ministry responds within 5 weeks.

Step 2: Entry, Residence and Work Permit

Migration Department – Residence Permit Visa

  • Inform Migration Department within 6 months of approval.
  • Send visa application to the Migration
    Department.

Reviewing Period:
The reviewing period is expected to take between 3-4 weeks

Residence Permit Duration:
Applicant can apply for a 2-year work permit (renewable for at least 1 year).

Cyprus Startup Visa Requirements and Documents

Documents Required Before Arrival

Ministry of Finance Initial Approval (issued within 6 months).

Proof of €10,000 in funds for living expences.

Passport (valid for 2+ years).

Criminal Record certificate.

Blood tests and chest X-ray.

Bank guarantee for repatriation expenses (10-years validity).

Documents Required After Arrival

Original Entry Permit (M70).

Copy of passport with last entry into Cyprus.

Blood tests and chest X-ray.

Health insurance certificate covering inpatient, outpatient care, and corpse transportation.

Proof of property ownership or rental agreement.

Cyprus Startup Visa FAQs

What is the Cyprus Start-up Visa?

The Cyprus Start-up Visa is a residence and work permit scheme designed for innovative entrepreneurs who intend to establish or relocate a startup with high growth potential and an innovation-driven business model in Cyprus.

The scheme applies to founders of innovative startups proposing new or ground-breaking products or services. Eligibility is assessed primarily on the innovation element and scalability of the business idea.

The first step requires submitting an application to the Ministry of Research, Innovation, and Digital Policy, including a detailed business plan of at least 15 pages. The Ministry typically issues a response within five weeks.

Following approval, the applicant must notify the Migration Department within six months and submit a residence permit application. The Migration Department review usually takes three to four weeks.

Successful applicants may apply for a two-year residence and work permit, which may be renewed for at least one additional year, subject to continued compliance with the scheme’s requirements.

Key documents include the Ministry’s initial approval, proof of €10,000 in funds for living expenses, a valid passport, criminal record certificate, medical test results, and a bank guarantee covering repatriation expenses.

After arrival, applicants must submit the original Entry Permit (M70), passport copies showing the latest entry, updated medical tests, valid health insurance, and proof of accommodation in Cyprus.

Yes. The Cyprus Start-up Visa includes the right to work and actively manage the approved startup in Cyprus for the duration of the residence permit.

Disclaimer: Information provided on the website may change. Please contact our manager to get the latest updates, full support, and consultation.