Since the program's launch, 208 people have received passports through the initiative to grant Cypriot citizenship on an expedited basis to highly qualified foreign specialists. The Ministry of Internal Affairs released this data in response to a parliamentary inquiry from MP Alexandra Attalidou.
What has changed in the law, and why is this necessary for Cyprus?
It should be noted that the process of obtaining citizenship for specialists invited to the island by companies has recently been simplified. This measure aims to attract international corporations and develop the IT sector, financial services, scientific research, and other industries requiring high qualifications
Minister of the Interior Constantinos Ioannou noted that the legislative changes have enabled Cyprus to create more competitive conditions for foreign investors and the employees needed to expand businesses within the country.
Citizenship is granted not only to the specialists, but also to their families
In addition to the specialists themselves, citizenship was granted to 65 members of their families. This is part of a strategy to create comfortable conditions for relocation, allowing the recruited personnel to settle on the island long-term.
Hundreds of applications are still under consideration
As of today, the Ministry of the Interior is reviewing an additional 360 applications for naturalization from employees of companies with high personnel qualification requirements. Interestingly, the ministry does not publish data on specific employers because applications are recorded by employment category rather than company name.
Economic Impact and Prospects
Experts note that this policy could accelerate the development of the Cypriot economy, attract new investment, and increase exports of services. Simplified naturalization could also strengthen Cyprus's position as an international business hub in the eastern Mediterranean.
According to recent trends, Cypriot citizenship under this program is mainly received by specialists in IT, fintech, biotechnology, and engineering, reflecting global demand for these professions.