Cyprus has reopened its Digital Nomad Visa Scheme, inviting remote workers and entrepreneurs from non-EU/EEA countries to live and work on the island.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to attract global talent, stimulate digital innovation, and respond to the growing demand for remote work. The scheme was initially approved by the Council of Ministers in October 2021 with a limit of 100 residence permits, later raised to 500 in March 2022. In March 2025, the Migration Department of the Deputy Ministry of Migration and International Protection announced that it once again accepts applications for the Digital Nomad Visa Scheme with a permit cap of 500.
A Strategic Move to Attract Global Talent:
The Digital Nomad Visa targets third-country nationals, including freelancers, remote workers, and entrepreneurs employed by foreign companies or with clients based outside Cyprus. The scheme allows these professionals to work remotely while supporting the economies of their home countries or clients abroad.
Cyprus aims to enhance its reputation as a digital innovation and entrepreneurship hub. The initiative aims to strengthen Cyprus’s business ecosystem and enhance its standing as a premier destination for internationally mobile professionals. Cyprus’ prime location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, along with its advanced infrastructure, makes it an ideal place for professionals to live and work in a dynamic environment.
Why Remote Professionals Choose Cyprus?
Cyprus offers a unique combination of lifestyle and professional advantages that make it an appealing destination for remote workers and digital entrepreneurs:
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High quality of life: Cyprus boasts excellent healthcare services, a strong education system, and a safe living environment.
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Modern infrastructure: Reliable internet connectivity, co-working spaces, and digital services support remote work efficiently.
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Favourable climate: With over 300 days of sunshine per year, the island offers a Mediterranean lifestyle that enhances overall well-being.
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Strategic location: Positioned at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus provides convenient access to international markets.
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Legal and tax stability: Cyprus has a well-established common law legal system and a transparent, business-friendly tax regime, offering a secure environment for international professionals.
Eligibility Criteria for the Digital Nomad Visa
To qualify for the Digital Nomad Visa, applicants must meet the following requirements:
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Nationality: Be a non-EU/EEA national.
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Remote work: Be employed by a company registered abroad, or be self-employed with clients or business activities located outside Cyprus.
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Minimum income: Demonstrate a stable net monthly income of at least €3,500 (after taxes), with additional thresholds of +20% for a spouse or partner and +15% for each dependent child.
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Accommodation: Provide proof of accommodation in Cyprus, such as a rental agreement or property title deed.
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Employment documentation: Submit a valid employment or service contract covering the intended duration of stay.
For a list of the required documents that need to be submitted with the application, click here.
Applications must be submitted within three months of arrival, with a typical processing time of 5-7 weeks.
Visa Duration and Family Considerations:
The Digital Nomad Visa is granted for one year initially, with the possibility of renewal for up to two additional years.
Family members, such as spouses, partners, and minor children, can join the applicant under the same residency scheme. However, dependents cannot work or engage in business activities in Cyprus, and each dependent must apply for a temporary residence permit.
Tax Benefits for Digital Nomads:
- 100% Personal Income Tax Exemption (90-Day Rule):
A full exemption from personal income tax applies to income earned from employment exercised outside Cyprus for more than 90 days in total during a tax year, provided the employer is not a Cyprus tax resident (or is a foreign permanent establishment of a Cyprus tax resident). - Tax Residency Status (183-Day Rule): Digital nomads who spend more than 183 days in Cyprus during a calendar year and are not tax residents elsewhere are considered Cyprus tax residents. As tax residents, they may benefit from Cyprus’s network of over 60 double tax treaties, which help prevent the double taxation of income.
- Non-Domiciled Tax Status: Digital nomads who become tax residents of Cyprus and are classified as non-domiciled enjoy 0% tax on dividends, 0% tax on interest, and 0% tax on rental income from abroad.
These benefits are available for up to 17 years, provided the individual was not previously domiciled in Cyprus. - Corporate Tax Advantages:
Digital nomads who choose to establish a company in Cyprus may benefit from:-
A corporate tax rate of 12.5%, one of the lowest in the EU;
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Conclusion: The Ideal Destination for Remote Professionals
The reopening of the Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa Scheme provides an excellent opportunity for remote workers and entrepreneurs worldwide. With its favourable tax regime, high-quality living, and strategic location, Cyprus is rapidly becoming one of Europe’s top destinations for remote professionals, seeking a balance between career flexibility and a high-quality lifestyle.
For further information or legal assistance with the Digital Nomad Visa application, including tailored tax advice and compliance support, please contact our Immigration and Tax Law teams at Christos Patsalides LLC. Our experienced lawyers are here to guide you every step of the way.
Author:
Angelina Patsalidou
Trainee Lawyer