Debate in Cyprus resumes over fast-track citizenship for investors

This week, questions raised by independent MP Alexandra Attalides about the revival of the practice of fast-track citizenship under the so-called “golden passports” program sparked public debate.

Currently, the three ways of obtaining Cypriot citizenship include descent from Cypriots, marriage to a Cypriot citizen, and naturalization. However, the first two paths are available only to a limited group of people, so most applicants rely on the standard naturalization procedure — residing in the Republic for at least eight years (the last of which must be continuous), having a good reputation, knowledge of the Greek language, and financial independence, as provided by Article 111 of the Population Law of 2002 (Ν. 141(I)/2002).

Recent amendments to the legislation, specifically the introduction of Article 111B (2), allow “highly qualified” employees in certain companies (mainly in the IT sector, although the law does not explicitly state this) to undergo naturalization under simplified criteria.

These innovations have raised concerns and questions about the transparency of the legal changes: critics argue that such measures may effectively bring back the practice of fast-track citizenships without full oversight and open debate.