Pink Slip (Visitor Residence Permit) in Cyprus — application process, requirements, and documents

The Pink Slip (or Visitor Permit) is the most popular way to legally reside in Cyprus without the right to work. It is suitable for those who have a stable income from abroad and wish to live in Cyprus for a year with the possibility of extension. This guide explains in detail how to apply for a Pink Slip, which documents are required, how long it takes, and the benefits it provides.

• What is a Pink Slip (Visitor Permit)
• Application Process
• Requirements and Financial Conditions
• Required Documents
• Special Conditions and Restrictions
• Useful Materials on Pink Slip
• Assistance with Application

What is a Pink Slip (Visitor Permit)

The Visitor Permit is a temporary residence permit, often referred to as a "pink slip" due to the pink color of the ID card. It is valid for 1 year, with the possibility of renewal. This type of residence permit does not grant the right to work but allows you to legally reside in Cyprus and stay for most of the year.

Pink Slip is suitable for: freelancers, retirees, investors, families with children, and anyone who simply wants to live in Cyprus while maintaining an income from abroad. To renew the residence permit, you must confirm that you continue to spend funds in Cyprus — this is the basis for permit renewal.

Application Process

You can submit an application only after entering Cyprus — on a short-term or tourist visa. Then you contact the Migration Department at your place of residence. The application can be submitted in person or through an authorized representative (with a notarized power of attorney).

Processing time usually takes about 5–6 months. After approval, you receive a temporary residence permit and a plastic ID card — the actual "pink slip".

Requirements and Financial Conditions

To qualify for a Pink Slip, you must prove sufficient means to live in Cyprus without employment. In 2025, the minimum amount is set at €2,000 per month (or €24,000 per year) for the main applicant.

Before submitting the application, a deposit must be made into your Cypriot bank account — €10,000 for the main applicant.

For family applications, additional amounts are required: from €5,000 per family member. These amounts may vary depending on the current requirements of the Migration Department. According to some sources, currently, each family member also requires €10,000.

The simplest option is to bring cash (declared at the airport) and deposit it into a Cypriot bank account. For Russians, it is currently possible to open an account in only two banks: Hellenic Bank and Bank of Cyprus.

Required Documents

• Valid international passport (copy of all filled pages).
• Application form MVIS3 (Visitor Application Form).
• Proof of stable income from abroad (bank statements, certificates, employment contracts, or pension documents).
• Rental agreement for at least 1 year with a tax department stamp or property ownership document.
• Bank guarantee (approximately €550 per person, depending on country of origin. The mentioned amount applies to residents of Eastern Europe).
• Medical insurance — international, averaging €200 per person.
• Certificate of no criminal record from the country of citizenship.
• Income proof — minimum €24,000 per year for the applicant.
• Copies of marriage and children's birth certificates (if applying as a family).
• Proof of school enrollment (for school-age children).

All documents must be translated into English and have an apostille. Translations are certified at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Embassy of the Republic of Cyprus in your country.

It is also necessary to pay state fees: initial application or renewal — €135 per person, registration (paid only for the first application) — also €135 per person.

Special Conditions and Restrictions

It is important to remember that the Pink Slip is canceled if the holder stays outside Cyprus for more than 90 consecutive days. The permit does not grant the right to work but allows owning a business or property, receiving income from abroad, and doing freelance work outside Cyprus.

After 5 years of continuous residence with a Pink Slip, you may apply for permanent residency in the Republic of Cyprus.

Useful Materials on Pink Slip

• Where to apply for a Pink Slip
• How long a Pink Slip application is processed
• What you need to know about Pink Slip
• Which countries can be visited with a Pink Slip

Assistance with Application

If you plan to submit documents for a Pink Slip or renew a Visitor Permit, contact specialists who will help you gather the documents and avoid mistakes.