תוכן עניינים
Many Israelis are interested in the possibility of migrating to Cyprus or relocating to Cyprus, in part because it is a country with a Mediterranean climate that is very close to Israel. In addition, the second language in Cyprus is English so no special communication problems are expected. Before moving, it is important to take care of all the necessary paperwork, the relevant residence visa and a variety of additional arrangements needed for a smooth transition as much as possible.
Unlike many European countries, Cyprus does not make it difficult for citizens to live and work there. The process involved in issuing different types of visas is considered relatively simple and there is no doubt that this is a very significant advantage when considering where to relocate.
A brief explanation of the types of visas to Cyprus:
1. Visa to Cyprus for European passport holders
Israelis who hold a European passport can enter Cyprus and stay there for three months without the need for a special visa. Also, during the three months they have the opportunity to engage in economic and financial activities without any problem.
Those wishing to stay in Cyprus for a longer period, need to issue a special certificate called the Registration Certificate for EU Nationals, this certificate is called “Yellow Slip” (yellow form).
The Yellow Slip makes it possible to receive health care (public health insurance), work in Cyprus, enroll the children in a local school, register the vehicle in Cyprus and more. To obtain the desired permit, an official application must be submitted for it at the local immigration office (Larnaca, Nicosia, Limassol, Famagusta or Paphos) within four months from the day of arrival in Cyprus.
In addition, an appointment should be arranged at the local immigration office, with the best recommendation being to find a local lawyer who specializes in immigration and relocation matters, who can coordinate the appointment and even accompany the applicant. The appointment should be arranged at least 4-3 weeks before the end of the four months.
The following documents must be brought to the meeting:
- Proof of employment from an Israeli employer (if the applicant works in Israel) or an employment contract from an employer in Cyprus, social security number, annual income form and the employer’s signature in Cyprus on the application form (if the applicant works in Cyprus)
- Lease contract (or any other proof that the applicant resides in Cyprus)
- Valid passport (or ID card and photocopied copy of the passport)
- Two passport photos
- 20 euros in cash (fee)
- Medical insurance policy (not required if the applicant works in Cyprus)
- Full application form (MEU1 (for EU 2MEU residents) for non-EU family members.
2. A certificate that was temporary for Israelis who do not hold a European passport
It is important to note that even Israelis who do not hold a European passport can enter Cyprus without any problem and stay in the country for 90 days without the need for a special visa. However, in order to stay in Cyprus for a longer period, it is necessary to issue a permit called Pink slip, which allows Israelis who do not hold a European passport to stay in Cyprus for a year, when the permit can be renewed every year. Pink slip is given, for example, to students studying in Cyprus, to family members of Cypriot citizens and more. However, the permit does not allow work in Cyprus. For this purpose, a work visa must be issued.
Israelis who do not hold a European passport need to find a job that will employ them in Cyprus, and unlike most countries in Cyprus, the employer must also arrange for the worker to be issued a work visa. In fact in Cyprus a work visa can only be issued if there is an orderly employment contract with an employer in Cyprus. The employee, on the other hand, only needs to register with the local Ministry of Foreigners and Immigrants and provide a number of documents that can be obtained very easily, after receiving the visa.
Unlike the embassies of other countries, the Cyprus Embassy in Tel Aviv does not issue visas to those interested in staying in the country for a longer period of time.
To do this, contact the Civil Registry and the Migration Department:
Phone: +22804400357, Email: migration@crmd.moi.gov.cy
3. Who is exempt from a visa to Cyprus?
- Cypriot citizens and residents
- European citizens and residents whose country is a signatory to the Schengen Convention
- Diplomatic staff during his tenure on the island
- In recent years, permanent residency in Cyprus and citizenship can later be obtained for those who invest their capital in real estate or business in the country.
Can Israelis obtain permanent residency in Cyprus without a European passport?
There are many circumstances that allow Israelis to stay in Cyprus indefinitely, when in some cases, it is even possible to work in Cyprus. Here are some types of visas that allow you to stay in Cyprus indefinitely:
- Category A – Self-employed people engaged in agriculture / farming and holding land in Cyprus or at least € 430,000 in equity can work and stay indefinitely in Cyprus
- Category B – Self-employed persons in the field of mining in Cyprus, who hold a license to engage in the field and have an equity of at least 350,000 euros can work and stay indefinitely in Cyprus
- Category E – Workers offered permanent employment in Cyprus (under certain conditions only) may work and reside indefinitely in Cyprus
- Category F – Israelis with an income of at least 9,569 euros a year can also move to Cyprus. This amount ensures that they can live in Cyprus comfortably, without having to work. If there are also children in the picture, an additional € 4,614 should be added to this amount for each person depending on the applicant. Usually in order to get the visa in this category, one must also purchase a property in Cyprus, which is worth more than 150,000 euros.
A little about the Israeli companies operating in Cyprus:
- Start-Up Nation Finder™
A free and online platform is the leading resource for in-depth information on Israeli start-ups, investors, hubs, multinational corporations and academic technologies. By combining data technology, mass outsourcing and a team of professional analysts, the site provides the latest information and insights on more than 6,400 active companies.
- Tel Aviv Chamber of Commerce and the Center
The Tel Aviv and Central Chamber of Commerce represents the bulk of the trade and services sector, which includes 240 main industries, sub-sectors and sub-sectors, and constitutes 67% of business product and 69% of employment in the business sector. The 80 industry divisions operating in the bureau create an influential framework vis-à-vis institutional bodies, state authorities and various bodies, in a series of industry issues to solve problems and advance the interests of their members.
A table summarizing all the business opportunities that exist in Cyprus appears on the Bureau’s website – https://www.chamber.org.il/serviceslobby/opportunities/?country=183
- Israel-Cyprus Chamber of Commerce
The Israel Cyprus Chamber of Commerce provides extensive services between businessmen from Israel and Cyprus, data on businesses and companies in Cyprus as well as financial services for companies interested in establishing their business in Cyprus.
You can contact the bureau and get information about the Israeli companies operating in Cyprus – https://www.israel-cyprus.co.il/he/
