“Golden Knowledge Programme” an expedited – fast-track citizenship procedure to attract high-skilled workers to the island.
According to this programme a third-country national has the right to apply for an expedited – fast-track citizenship following a specific number of continuous legal residence in Cyprus.
First criterion that needs be fulfilled is that the potential applicant must be a holder of a temporary residence and employment permit for the purpose of highly skilled employment in Cyprus companies.
Once this permit is obtained then the legal residence period starts to count.
The following companies fall into this category:
1. businesses/companies of foreign interests operating in the Republic of Cyprus and operating independent offices in Cyprus, which are housed in suitable premises, separate from any private residence or other office,
2. Cypriot shipping companies,
3. Cypriot hi-tech/innovation companies with products related to the aerospace industry, computers, IT, technology and communication, pharmaceuticals, biomedical equipment, research and development equipment, electrical
4. Cypriot pharmaceutical companies or Cypriot companies active in the fields of biogenetics and biotechnology,
5. the companies that are already registered in the Register of Foreign Companies of the Department of Population and Immigration Records.
As a holder of a temporary residence and employment permit, the potential applicant has the right to file a citizenship application provided that the following are covered:
(a) Legal and continuous residence (under the above permit) for 12 months immediately preceding the date of application. Periods of absence that do not exceed a total of 90 days do not interrupt the stated time period.
(b) During the immediately preceding 10 years from the 12-month period to have legal residence for cumulative periods of no less than 4 years or 3 years depending on the level of knowledge of the Greek language, i.e. A2 or B1 respectively. Periods of absence that do not exceed a total of 90 days per year are not counted as absence.
(c) Good character.
(d) Adequate knowledge of the Greek language at level A2 or B1.
(e) Adequate knowledge of basic elements of the modern political and social reality of the Republic.
(f) Adequate accommodation and stable and regular financial resources sufficient for the maintenance of themselves and their family members.
(g) Intention to reside in the Republic
The Citizenship eligibility also extends to the applicants’ family members.
The streamlined processing of these citizenship requests ensures completion for a period of eight months, and it is to the discretion of the Minister for approval.
The aim of this programme is to encourage the retention of skilled workers and stimulate economic growth in Cyprus through a fast-track citizenship application.
Evagoras Anastasiou Law Firm focuses on each client individually, providing the best legal service for immigration and relocation in Cyprus. Therefore, they will take time to study your case individually, advise you on all legal matters and offer you relevant advice that will help you secure the best possible outcome.
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