You are a digital nomad, entrepreneur or employee and you want to get away for a few months... You can opt for teleworking abroad, here are some tips for trying the adventure in Cyprus!
Since January 2022, a digital nomad visa has been created with the aim of allowing third-country nationals to work remotely from Cyprus. This request concerns each employee who wishes to work for their company located in their country of origin. If you are self-employed, this also works as long as your business is outside Cyprus. The teleworker can settle on the island for an extended period.
How do I know if I am eligible to obtain a digital nomad visa?
Firstly, I need to check whether my nationality allows me to enter Cyprus to telework for an extended period. You should know that all non-European nationals can apply for a visa.
Several conditions are required to obtain the visa. The applicant must be over 18 years old and have a clean criminal record. Before departure, it is necessary to apply for appropriate health insurance which can cover your health costs for the entire duration of your stay.
When working remotely, it is essential to use and master telecommunications technologies in order to be in touch with your company remotely. This is an important point for continuing your professional missions in the best possible conditions abroad. As a reminder, you must be employed by your company located and registered in your country of origin. If you are self-employed, you are eligible if you offer your services well to foreign clients.
An ideal destination for teleworking
Adapted workspaces
The establishments that the island offers for teleworkers are rich and diverse. There are quality infrastructures such as coworking spaces offering shared spaces or private offices or cafes and restaurants which allow you to work in dedicated and comfortable spaces. Hotels and other accommodations also have workspaces. Most of these establishments have high-speed internet coverage.
A balance between personal and professional life
Many hotel establishments, tourist residences and holiday homes can become your new home during your stay. These infrastructures could be ideal for you because they offer workspaces. Cyprus is both an adventure destination, that is to say it is entirely possible to settle down for a specific period alone, as a couple, with friends, but it is also a destination that can accommodate you and your family.
An attractive lifestyle
The island of Cyprus has a pleasant climate. Summers are hot and winters are cold. It is a sunny destination most of the year. The cost of living is reasonable compared to other European destinations. We see that the standard of living is average. The cost of rent and groceries is not that high. Cyprus welcomes many foreigners, which makes the island attractive and international. This is an important point if you are a digital nomad to discover the local way of life and meet many people. For European nationals, travel and administrative formalities are simplified due to the fact that Cyprus is a member of the European Union.
Natural and seaside tourism
The island is practically sunny all year round, which will allow you to visit and discover the culture during your rest time. Its history and landscapes are unique and exceptional. There you will find numerous fine sandy beaches, mountainous landscapes as well as archaeological sites, vineyards and olive groves. This destination is ideal and can adapt to any traveler, especially for those who appreciate large natural spaces.
How to apply for the visa?
The digital nomad visa application will be made on site, upon your arrival in Cyprus. You must therefore check whether you need a tourist visa or not, depending on your nationality to be able to enter the territory before obtaining your digital nomad visa. European nationals do not need to apply for a tourist visa, they can stay visa-free for 90 days.
To prepare your digital nomad visa application, you can download an application form, print it and complete the requested information. Within three months of your arrival in Cyprus, you will need to go to the Department of Civil Registration and Migration in Nicosia.
The visa can also be requested during an appointment with the nearest Cypriot embassy or consulate from your home country. Please make sure to apply for the visa at least three weeks before the planned departure date.
Some particularities concerning the visa
- The cost of the visa is 70€
- The processing time for your file is between 5 and 7 weeks
- Once your visa is approved, you will receive your residence permit which will be valid for one year, with the possibility of renewing it for 2 years.
- Note that 500 applicants can obtain the visa
- After more than 183 days of stay, you will be required to pay residence tax
- You can travel with your spouse and dependents
What documents must be provided?
- Passport valid for at least 3 months after your arrival in Cyprus
- Employment contract
- Prove your income (bank statements and pay slips)
-Earn at least €3,500 per month
-Earn at least €4,200 per month if you travel with your spouse
-Earn at least €4,830 per month if you travel with your spouse and dependents
- Health insurance (You must be covered for at least €30,000)
- Clean record
- Accommodation in Cyprus (rental or purchase contract)