Dual Citizen Club
Countries/Cyprus/Citizenship by Descent

Cyprus Citizenship by Descent: Complete Guide 2025

Claim Cyprus citizenship through your Cyprus ancestors going back up to 2 generations. Get EU citizenship with access to 27 European countries.

85%
Success Rate
6-12 months
Typical Process Time
€400-1,200
Total Cost

What is Cyprus Citizenship by Descent?

Cyprus citizenship by descent allows individuals with Cyprus heritage to claim citizenship through their parents or grandparents. This pathway recognizes the principle of jus sanguinis (right of blood), allowing those with Cyprus ancestry to reclaim their heritage and gain EU citizenship.

Key Benefits of Cyprus Citizenship

  • EU Citizenship: Live, work, and study in any of 27 EU countries
  • Strong Passport: Visa-free travel to 176 destinations
  • No Residency Requirement: Can obtain without living in Cyprus
  • 2-Generation Eligibility: Up to 2 generations back
  • Dual Citizenship: Keep your original nationality

Cyprus Citizenship Costs: Complete Breakdown

$800
Minimum (DIY)
$800 - $1,500
Typical Range
$3,500
Maximum (Full Service)

Detailed Cost Breakdown:

Government Application Fee
Required

Official Cyprus nationality application fee

Standard fee for citizenship by descent applications

$400 - $200
Document Collection
Required

Birth, marriage, and death certificates from various registries

Cyprus civil registry documents and international certificates

$100 - $400
Document Translations
Required

Certified translations of non-Greek documents

All foreign documents must be translated by certified translators

$150 - $500
Apostille Authentication
Required

Apostille stamps for international document authentication

Required for all foreign documents

$50 - $200
Greek Language Test
Required

B1 level proficiency test

B1 level required for citizenship

$100 - $200
Legal Consultation
Optional

Immigration lawyer assistance with application

Recommended for complex cases

$500 - $2,000

Important Cost Considerations:

  • Cyprus allows up to 2 generations for citizenship by descent
  • Processing times typically 6-12 months
  • Must demonstrate B1 level Greek proficiency
  • Dual citizenship is allowed
  • All foreign documents need apostille and certified translation
  • Success rate approximately 85% for complete applications

💡 Money-Saving Tips:

  • Order documents yourself instead of using agencies (save $200-500)
  • Do translations through certified freelancers vs law firms (save $300-800)
  • Apply directly to consulates rather than through services (save $1000+)
  • Research your family tree yourself before hiring genealogists
Check Your Eligibility Now

Cyprus Citizenship by Descent Requirements

You Qualify If:

  • You have a Cyprus parent or grandparent
  • Your Cyprus ancestor retained their citizenship
  • You can prove the family lineage with official documents
  • You can demonstrate B1 level Greek proficiency
  • You have no serious criminal convictions

You Don't Qualify If:

  • Your Cyprus ancestor formally renounced their citizenship
  • You cannot obtain the required official documentation
  • Your Cyprus ancestor is more than 2 generations back
  • You have serious criminal convictions

Cyprus Citizenship by Descent Process: Step-by-Step

1

Verify Cyprus Ancestry

Confirm you have Cyprus parent or grandparent who retained citizenship

Time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: €0
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Cyprus allows up to 2 generations for citizenship by descent

2

Collect Required Documents

Gather all birth, marriage, and death certificates proving Cyprus lineage

Time: 2-6 months
Cost: €300
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Documents must be apostilled and translated

3

Greek Language Test

Take B1 Greek language test

Time: 1-3 months
Cost: €150
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: B1 level required

4

Submit Citizenship Application

Apply at Cyprus consulate or in Nicosia

Time: 1-2 weeks
Cost: €250
2 documents needed

💡 Tip: Can apply at consulate abroad or directly in country

5

Application Review and Processing

Cyprus authorities review application and verify documents

Time: 6-12 months
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Processing times vary based on complexity and current demand

6

Receive Citizenship Certificate

Receive official Cyprus nationality certificate

Time: 2-4 weeks
Cost: €0
1 documents needed

💡 Tip: Certificate proves citizenship and allows passport application

7

Apply for Cyprus Passport

Use citizenship certificate to obtain passport

Time: 4-6 weeks
Cost: €100
3 documents needed

💡 Tip: Provides full EU travel and residence rights

Frequently Asked Questions

How far back can I trace Cyprus ancestry for citizenship?

Cyprus allows citizenship by descent for up to 2 generations: parents and grandparents.

Do I need to speak Greek to get Cyprus citizenship by descent?

No, Cyprus does not require language proficiency for citizenship by descent, making the process more accessible.

How much does Cyprus citizenship by descent cost?

Total costs typically range from €400-1,200, including application fees, document costs, translations, and apostilles.

How long does the Cyprus citizenship process take?

The process typically takes 6-12 months from application submission to citizenship approval. Processing times vary based on case complexity and current demand.

Can I keep my original citizenship when becoming Cypriot?

Yes, Cyprus allows dual citizenship, so you can keep your original nationality when obtaining Cyprus citizenship.