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Cyprus

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At a glance

Living index rating
Moderate
Monthly rent
€150 – €350 in university housing; €250 – €450 shared flat (Limassol highest)
Monthly food
€200 – €300
Other monthly expenses
€150 – €250 (utilities, transport, phone, personal)
Visa processing time
About 4 – 8 weeks
Family allowed for students
No

Visa requirements

  • Student entry permit, applied for through your university to the Civil Registry and Migration Department (documents via VFS Global in many countries)
  • Acceptance letter and proof of paid tuition (often at least the first semester or year)
  • Bank statement showing funds for living costs and a bank guarantee or deposit where required
  • Medical certificates (e.g. HIV, hepatitis, TB, syphilis tests) and a police clearance certificate
  • Health insurance; temporary residence permit after arrival, renewed each year
  • Part-time work is very restricted (limited sectors and hours), so don't rely on it to fund your studies

Work permit after studies

  • Master's and PhD graduates (EQF level 7+) of Cypriot institutions can get a residence permit for up to 12 months to look for work or start a business in their field
  • With a job offer: Single Permit (general employment), EU Blue Card, or permits for highly qualified workers in sectors such as ICT, pharma and shipping

Citizenship route

  • Naturalisation after 8 years of lawful residence in the 11 years before applying, with Greek at B1 level and a civics test
  • Highly qualified employees can apply after 4 years (Greek A2) or 3 years (Greek B1)
  • Time as a student counts only partly; check the current rules

Family details

  • Students on a study permit generally can't bring their spouse or children as dependants
  • Family members can visit on short-stay visas

Universities in Cyprus

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (28), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.