The Cyprus passport has taken fifth place in the global Nomad Passport Index 2026, confirming the country’s growing role on the map of global mobility. Citizenship of the island state is increasingly chosen by people with international lifestyles, thanks to a combination of freedom of movement, flexible taxation, and a stable legal system.
The ranking was published in the tenth anniversary edition of the Nomad Passport Index, compiled annually by the international consulting firm Nomad Capitalist, which specializes in tax planning and immigration. The study analyzed 199 countries and territories worldwide.
High Score and Ahead of the US and the UK
Cyprus scored a total of 107.5 points, placing it in the top five and ahead of major economies such as the United Kingdom and the United States. Unlike traditional rankings that focus solely on the number of visa-free destinations, the Nomad Passport Index uses a broader methodology. It assesses passports based on global mobility, taxation of citizens, international perception, dual citizenship rules, and the level of personal freedoms.
According to the report, the Cypriot passport showed balanced and strong performance across almost all categories, making it particularly attractive to entrepreneurs, investors, and internationally active professionals.
Freedom of Travel and Tax Advantages
In the global mobility category, Cyprus achieved a score equivalent to access to around 171 countries worldwide through visa-free travel, visas on arrival, or electronic authorizations. This provides citizens with a high level of travel freedom and convenience for both business and international living.
The tax aspect deserves special attention. The Republic of Cyprus received 40 points for its tax system, which in most cases does not tax foreign-sourced income of citizens residing in the country, thanks to the territorial and remittance-based approach. This makes Cyprus one of the key tax planning hubs within the EU, especially amid tightening rules in other jurisdictions.
Dual Citizenship and Personal Freedoms
Cyprus received the maximum 50 points in two categories—dual citizenship and personal freedom. The country’s legislation allows multiple citizenships without restrictions, while the protection of civil rights remains strong. The report also highlights the absence of compulsory military service for most categories of citizens and a relatively low level of state control and interference in private life.
In the international perception category, Cyprus scored 40 points. This indicator is based on how citizens of a country are viewed abroad, taking into account data from indices such as the World Happiness Report and the Human Development Index. Overall, Cyprus is seen as a stable, safe, and comfortable jurisdiction.
Cyprus in the Global Context and Long-Term Trends
Malta ranked first in the 2026 index with 109 points. It was followed by Ireland, Greece, and Romania, which shared second place with 108 points each. Cyprus came immediately after them, securing fifth place and confirming its status as one of the strongest passports in the European Union.
For comparison, the United Kingdom ranked only 35th, while the United States fell to 43rd place. The US passport received the lowest possible score for taxation, as the United States continues to tax its citizens regardless of their country of residence. At the bottom of the ranking once again were Afghanistan, Syria, and Eritrea.
An analysis of data from 2017 to 2026 shows that passports of Southern and Central European countries, including Cyprus, have moved from being considered “alternative” options to becoming strategically important assets. Experts note that the combination of EU mobility, the non-dom regime, an open dual citizenship policy, and institutional stability has allowed Cyprus to approach the world’s leading jurisdictions.
Why the Cyprus Passport Is Becoming a Strategic Asset
In today’s world, the value of a passport is increasingly defined not only by the number of visa-free countries. Tax flexibility, personal freedoms, legal protection, and state stability are becoming decisive factors. By this formula, Cyprus continues to outperform competitors and strengthen its reputation amid global uncertainty.
As highlighted in the report, a second passport today is not just a document but a tool for expanding personal and financial opportunities, offering confidence and freedom of action. In this context, Cyprus is increasingly viewed as one of the best solutions for global citizens seeking a balance between quality of life, security, and economic efficiency.