The Cyprus Yellow Slip, also known as the Registration Certificate for EU Citizens, is an important residence permit that allows EU/EEA nationals to live and work in Cyprus for more than three months. It proves your legal stay in the country and gives you access to key benefits like the right to work, register for public healthcare (GESY), open a bank account, and enroll in schools or universities.

This article will explain everything you need to know about the Cyprus Yellow Slip, including who can apply, what documents you need, the application process, and important details like validity and renewal rules.

What is the Cyprus Yellow Slip? 

Street view of Limassol in Cyprus The Yellow Slip, also known as the Cyprus residence for EU citizens or the Registration Certificate for EU Nationals is a residence permit for people from the EU or EEA who want to live in Cyprus for more than three months. It allows them and their close family members to live and work in Cyprus without needing other permits.

To get the Yellow Slip, you must show that you have enough money to support yourself and your family, a place to live, and health insurance. You must also fill out forms, provide the required documents, and attend an appointment.

This permit gives you access to public healthcare and education, which is a good choice for EU citizens looking to move to Cyprus.

Who can apply for the Cyprus Registration Certificate for EU Nationals?

  • EU citizens
  • Family members of EU citizens, including spouses and children. (sponsored by the main applicant)
  • Non-EU family members accompanying or joining an EU citizen residing in Cyprus (sponsored

Requirements for the Cyprus Yellow Slip

  • Must be an EU or EEA citizen or a non-EU family member of an EU citizen
  • Need to show enough money to support yourself and your dependents without using public funds.
  • There’s no fixed income limit, but it’s smart to have around €24,000 per year, similar to what’s required for non-EU applicants
  • Must have a rented or owned home in Cyprus that fits you and your family
  • Must have comprehensive health insurance (private or public) to cover medical needs

Cyprus Yellow Slip Benefits

  • peopler working on computersLegal residency – The Yellow Slip lets European Union citizens legally live in Cyprus for more than three months.
  • Work rights – You can work in Cyprus without needing a separate work permit.
  • Public healthcare – You can register for GESY, Cyprus’s national health system, and access public healthcare services.
  • Education access – You or your children can enroll in schools and universities in Cyprus.
  • Easier banking – The Yellow Slip is often needed to open a bank account and handle other official matters.
  • Family reunification – Non-EU family members can also get residency through your Yellow Slip.
  • Path to citizenship – Over time, this permit can help you move toward getting EU citizenship.

Required Documents for the Cyprus Residence for EU/EEA Citizens

These are all the documents that need to be gathered for the Cyprus registration certificate.

  • Valid Passport Copy: A copy of your passport.
  • Marriage certificate (if applicable): Must be translated into English, certified, and either apostilled or certified by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Cyprus Embassy of the issuing country.
  • Children’s birth certificates (if applicable): Same certification and translation requirements as the marriage certificate.
  • Residential agreement (house/apartment contract): A rental or sale agreement. Rental contracts must be at least one year long, certified by a Muhtar (village leader) or authorized officer, and stamped by the tax office.
  • Bank statements: Provide six months’ worth of bank statements from a Cyprus or foreign bank, showing income and expenses in Cyprus.
  • Health insurance (if not employed in Cyprus): You can get local health insurance in Cyprus for about €200 per person, which can be done in one day.
  • Passport photos: These are taken at the office during your application, so you don’t need to provide them in advance.
  • Employment Verification (if applicable):
    • For overseas workers: Submit an employer’s confirmation letter and a recent pay slip.
    • For workers in Cyprus:
      • Employer’s confirmation letter.
      • Social insurance registration and annual income certificate.
      • Employer-signed application form.

To learn more about the Cyprus Golden Visa  

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Which MEU form should you fill out? 

The Cyprus Yellow Slip registration process has two forms to choose from, and each serves a different purpose depending on your situation. These forms are used to register your residence in Cyprus and allow you to live, work, and access services. Here’s how they work:

1. MEU1 – For EU/EEA citizens

This form is for EU or EEA citizens who are planning to stay in Cyprus for more than 90 days. It registers your legal residence in Cyprus, and once approved, you get the Yellow Slip that lets you live, work, and enjoy other benefits in Cyprus.

2. MEU2 – For non-EU family Members of EU Citizens

This form is for non-EU family members (such as spouses, children, or parents) of an EU or EEA citizen living in Cyprus. It allows non-EU family members to also gain legal residence in Cyprus and access the same rights as EU citizens.

Cyprus Yellow Slip Application Process

person signing documents on a table This is the application process for the Cyprus residence for EEA citizens. It is important to note that all applicants must be physically present at the time of application to provide biometric data (fingerprints and/or photographs) and signatures.

  1. Gather your documents: Before starting the application, make sure you have all the necessary documents ready. These documents will help support your application for the Yellow Slip. You will need things like your passport, proof of income, health insurance, and residency details.
  2. Choose the right form: After gathering your documents, you’ll need to decide which form to use, either the MEU1 for EU/EEA citizens or the MEU2 for non-EU family members.
  3. Fill Out the Form: Once you’ve selected the appropriate form, fill it out with your personal information and details about your residency plans in Cyprus.
  4. Submit Your Application: After completing the form and organizing your documents, submit your application to the Civil Registry and Migration Department or another relevant office. You might need to attend an appointment to submit the paperwork in person.
  5. Wait for Approval: Your application will be reviewed by the authorities. The processing time may take a few weeks, depending on the workload. If your application is complete and meets the requirements, it will be approved.
  6. Receive Your Yellow Slip: Once approved, you’ll be issued the Yellow Slip. This document officially grants you legal residence in Cyprus, allowing you to live, work, and access public services like healthcare and education.

Application Fee for the Cyprus Registration Certificate

The cost to apply for a Yellow Slip for the first time or to renew it is €20 per family member.

Cyprus Yellow Slip Processing Time

The processing time for the Cyprus Yellow Slip usually takes about four to six weeks. However, this can vary depending on how many applications are being handled at the time and if there are any issues with your application.

If everything is in order and your documents are complete, you might get your Yellow Slip sooner. But if there are any missing documents or other problems, it could take longer. If you don’t hear anything after 6 weeks, it’s a good idea to check with the Civil Registry and Migration Department.

Validity and Renewal Process of the Cyprus Yellow slip

The Cyprus Yellow Slip is valid indefinitely for EU citizens, so they don’t need to renew it. However, non-EU family members must renew their Yellow Slip every five years.

When renewing, applicants must submit the same documents they provided during their first application. They must also prove that they continue to meet the eligibility requirements, such as having sufficient financial resources and health insurance.

Other Cypriot Residency Options for Non-EU Nationals

While the Cyprus Yellow Slip is for EU nationals and their family members, there are other residency options for non-EU nationals that Cyprus has to offer. These include:

The Cyprus Golden Visa is a residence permit for non-EU citizens who invest in the country, usually by buying property worth at least €300,000. It allows you and your family to live in Cyprus and travel within the EU’s Schengen zone. It’s ideal for investors looking for a second home or long-term residency.

To learn more about the Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa

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The Cyprus Digital Nomad Visa is for non-EU remote workers who want to live in Cyprus while working for a company or clients outside the country. You must earn at least €3,500 per month and have health insurance. The visa is valid for one year and can be renewed for up to two more years.

How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?

Global Citizen Solutions is a boutique migration consultancy firm with years of experience delivering bespoke residence and citizenship by investment solutions for international families. With offices worldwide and an experienced, hands-on team, we have helped hundreds of clients worldwide acquire citizenship, residence visas, or homes while diversifying their portfolios with robust investments. 

We guide you from start to finish, taking you beyond your citizenship or residency by investment application. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the Cyprus Yellow Slip

Who is eligible for the Cyprus Yellow Slip?

The Yellow Slip is available to EU/EEA citizens who wish to stay in Cyprus for over three months. Non-EU family members of EU citizens can also apply for residency through this permit.

How long does it take to get the Yellow Slip?

The processing time usually takes 4 to 6 weeks, but it can vary depending on application volume and document completeness. If there are any issues, it might take longer.

How long is the Yellow Slip valid for?

For EU citizens, the Yellow Slip is valid indefinitely. However, non-EU family members must renew it every five years.

Can I work with the Yellow Slip?

Yes, the Yellow Slip allows EU citizens to live and work in Cyprus without needing a separate work permit. Non-EU family members can also work once they are granted the permit.

Do I need health insurance to apply for the Yellow Slip?

Yes, applicants must provide proof of health insurance. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card, while non-EU family members may need to provide private health insurance coverage.

Can I bring my family with me on the Yellow Slip?

Yes, you can bring your non-EU family members, such as a spouse or children, and they can also apply for residence through the Yellow Slip as your dependents.

Do I need to submit the same documents when renewing my Yellow Slip?

Yes, when renewing, you must submit the same documents as your initial application and demonstrate that you still meet the eligibility criteria, like having sufficient funds and health insurance.