In accordance with the amended Population Registry Law of 2023, specifically outlined in Article 111B(1), which came into effect on December 19, 2023, individuals seeking Cypriot citizenship through naturalization must fulfill certain prerequisites. These qualifications, as stipulated by the law, are paramount for a successful application process and include:
(a) Legal and Continuous Residence: Prospective applicants must have maintained legal and continuous residence in Cyprus for a duration of 12 months immediately preceding the application date. Notably, short absence periods totaling up to 90 days within this timeframe are permissible and do not disrupt the continuity of residence.
(b) Cumulative Residence: Over the ten years preceding the 12-month residency requirement, applicants must demonstrate legal residency in Cyprus for cumulative periods not less than 7 years.
(c) Good Character: Applicants are expected to exhibit good character as part of their eligibility for citizenship.
(d) Greek Language Proficiency: Proficiency in the Greek language at the B1 level is required. This proficiency is assessed through an official Greek language examination, as per the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages by the Council of Europe.
(e) Knowledge of Political and Social Realities: An understanding of basic elements of contemporary political and social realities of the Republic is essential. This knowledge is evaluated through a specific examination conducted by the Examination Service of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth, with a passing grade of 60% or higher.
(f) Financial Stability and Accommodation: Applicants must provide evidence of suitable accommodation and stable financial resources sufficient for their own maintenance and that of their family members.
Supporting Documents for Language Proficiency (d): Proof of successful completion of a Greek language examination at the B1 level, as specified by the Council of Europe. This certification can be obtained through Greek Language Certification Examinations conducted by the Center for the Greek Language of the Hellenic Republic, facilitated by the Examination Service of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth.
Supporting Documents for Political and Social Knowledge (e): Certification of success with a grade equal to or greater than 60% in an examination assessing knowledge of Basic Elements of Contemporary Political and Social Realities of the Republic. This examination is also conducted by the Examination Service of the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports and Youth.
Supporting Documents for Financial Stability and Accommodation (f):
Title deed, sales agreement document, and payment receipts OR lease agreement document, rental payment receipts, and utility bill payment receipts for accommodation verification.
Proof of income such as employment contracts, social insurance documents, income tax statements, bank statements, or any other relevant documents showcasing the applicant's financial stability.