Temporary Residence (Yellow Slip)
🪪 What is a “Yellow Slip”?
A Yellow Slip is a temporary residence certificate for European Union citizens who wish to live, work, or run a business in Southern Cyprus for more than 90 days.
It is an official registration document issued by the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) in the form of a yellow A.R.C. – Alien Registration Certificate.
It is not a visa or permanent residence but serves as legal proof of an EU citizen’s residence in the Republic of Cyprus.
1️⃣ Who Needs a Yellow Slip
All EU citizens staying in Cyprus for more than 90 days must obtain a Yellow Slip if they:
- reside in Cyprus longer than 90 days,
- work, run a business, or study,
- own property and plan to live in Cyprus long-term,
- or live with family members in Cyprus.
💡 Without a Yellow Slip, EU citizens may stay in Cyprus only up to 90 days (as tourists). After 90 days, registration is mandatory.
2️⃣ Types of Yellow Slip
| Type | For | Required Documents |
|---|---|---|
| Employee | Person with an employment contract in Cyprus | Employment contract, employer confirmation |
| Self-Employed | Business owner, freelancer, entrepreneur | Tax registration, social insurance |
| Self-Sufficient | Person with income from outside Cyprus (e.g., retiree, investor) | Proof of income, bank statements |
| Student | Individuals studying at Cypriot institutions | Proof of enrollment, health insurance |
3️⃣ Required Documents
To apply for a Yellow Slip, you need to submit:
✅ Valid EU passport or ID card
✅ 2 passport-sized photographs
✅ Property purchase or rental agreement (minimum 1 year)
✅ Proof of financial means (e.g., bank statement or employment contract)
✅ Health insurance (European Health Insurance Card or private insurance)
✅ Form MEU1 (EU citizen registration form)
✅ Proof of address (e.g., utility bill or rental contract)
4️⃣ Where and How to Apply
The application must be submitted in person at the District Immigration Office for the relevant region:
- Nicosia
- Limassol
- Larnaca
- Paphos
- Ammochostos (Paralimni)
💡 In some cities, it is necessary to make an appointment in advance (online or by phone).
It is recommended to submit the application within 90 days of arrival in Cyprus.
5️⃣ Fees and Processing
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Registration application (MEU1) | €20 |
| Copy or duplicate | €10 |
⏱️ Processing time: 2 – 6 weeks
📄 Output: A4 paper document – Yellow Form (Yellow Slip) with ARC number
6️⃣ Validity and Obligations
The Yellow Slip is valid indefinitely, as long as the holder lives in Cyprus permanently or repeatedly visits the island.
It expires if the person leaves Cyprus for more than 2 consecutive years.
The holder must report any change of address or status (e.g., new job, rental, marriage).
7️⃣ Benefits of Holding a Yellow Slip
✅ Legal long-term residence without a visa
✅ Ability to register with the GESY healthcare system
✅ Ability to buy a car, open a bank account, and enter contracts
✅ Eligibility for tax residency (60-day rule)
✅ Step toward Permanent Residence (PRP) after a few years
8️⃣ Difference Between Yellow Slip and Permanent Residence (PRP)
| Criteria | Yellow Slip (Temporary Residence) | Permanent Residence (PRP) |
|---|---|---|
| For whom | EU citizens | Non-EU citizens |
| Type of document | Residence registration | Residence permit |
| Validity | Unlimited, if staying in Cyprus | Lifetime |
| Right to work | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (except investment/business) |
| Required investment | ❌ None | ✅ Minimum €300,000 + VAT |
| Processing time | 2 – 6 weeks | 3 – 4 months |
| Family inclusion | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Visits to Cyprus | Recommended at least once a year | Mandatory once every 2 years |
💡 The Yellow Slip is an administrative residence registration, whereas PRP is an investment-based immigration status.
9️⃣ Practical Tips
- Always bring photocopies of all documents – offices usually require them even for in-person submission.
- If you do not have a purchase contract, a rental agreement certified by the district office is sufficient.
- If employed, the office may request proof of Social Insurance contributions.
- The Yellow Slip is not inserted into the passport – it is a separate A4 document.
- Once obtained, you can apply for a Cyprus Tax Identification Number (TIC) and register with GESY.
