Cypriot visa resources
How to Apply for a Cyprus Visa or Residence Permit
Where and how to lodge short-stay visa applications versus residence and employment permits for Cyprus.
Important
Cyprus splits its immigration process between two authorities. Short-stay and entry visas are handled by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs through Cyprus embassies and consulates abroad, while residence and employment permits for third-country nationals are decided by the Civil Registry and Migration Department under the Ministry of Interior.
For a short visit, apply for the visa at the Cyprus embassy or consulate responsible for your country of nationality or habitual residence; where there is no mission, use the most accessible Cyprus diplomatic mission. For longer stays, the residence or employment permit is normally arranged with the Migration Department (often initiated by an employer or institution), after which you obtain an entry visa where required and, on arrival, register and provide biometric data to collect the permit.
General steps
- Identify whether you need a short-stay visa, or a residence/employment permit for a longer stay
- Short stay: apply at a Cyprus embassy/consulate before travelling
- Long stay: lodge the residence/employment permit application with the Migration Department
- Obtain the entry visa where required, then register and give biometrics after arrival
- Use the official online renewal service for renewing residence permits
Next steps
Official sources
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.
Verified against official sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.