Moving to Cyprus after Brexit? A comprehensive guide for UK citizens
As the dust settles on the UK’s departure from the European Union, UK citizens are exploring new avenues for residency in EU member states. If you are contemplating a move after Brexit, Cyprus emerges as an attractive destination for many UK citizens seeking a change of scenery. For those enchanted by the sun-soaked landscapes and rich cultural tapestry of Cyprus, understanding the process of securing their residency rights in the Republic is crucial. In this article, we will explore the steps and procedures involved in moving to Cyprus from the UK.
Cyprus offers several residency options, each designed to cater to different needs and circumstances.
The UKW1 and UKW2 procedures are specific avenues designed for UK citizens and their families wishing to move from the UK to obtain residency in Cyprus. These procedures are particularly relevant post-Brexit, providing a structured pathway for individuals keen on establishing residency in the island.
UKW1 Procedure:
Beneficiaries of the UKW1 residence document are those UK nationals and their family members who are also UK nationals, who retain a right to free movement and residence in the Republic under the Withdrawal Agreement.
On the basis of the Withdrawal Agreement , the citizens of the United Kingdom and their dependent family members who have exercised their right in accordance with the Right of Union Citizens and Family Members to Move and Live Freely in the Republic Law of 2007 [7(I)/2007] and Directive 2004/38/EC , before the date of withdrawal and/or until the end of the transition period, have the right to residence, work and freedom circulation and also have the possibility to continue to reside in the Republic as in the past.
Once the UKW1 application is approved it will be valid for a period of five years. After its expiry, the holder has the right to renew and submit an application to secure a UKW3 Permanent Residence Document
UKW2 Procedure
Beneficiaries of the UKW2 Residence Document are the dependent family members of a UK national who are third-country nationals if the UK national with whom they have a dependent relationship retains a right of residence in the Republic under the Withdrawal Agreement.
If the application is approved, the validity of the residence document that will be issued will be 5 years. After the expiry, the right to renew and submit an application to secure a UKW3 Permanent Residence Document is granted.
UKW3 Procedure
Holders of the UKW3 Permanent Residence Document are UK nationals and their family members who are also UK nationals if they have been lawfully resident in the Republic for a continuous period of five years before the end of the transition period or have been resident before and after the end of the transition period and can apply if they complete five years of continuous residence. Non-UK family members of a UK national are also eligible if they retain the rights of abode under the Withdrawal Agreement and have resided in the Republic for a continuous period of five years before the end of the transition period or if complete five years of continuous residence before and after the end of the transition period.
Holders of Certificate of Registration (MEU1) and Residence Card (MEU2), have the right to apply and obtain the Permanent Residence Document, as long as they have resided in the Republic for a continuous period of five years, before the end of the transitional period, and can prove their continuous residence by submitting relevant documents or if they complete five years of continuous residence before and after the end of the transition period. Holders of a Permanent Residence Certificate (MEU3) or a Permanent Residence Card have the right to convert this document into a UKW3 Permanent Residence Document if they wish.
If the application is approved, the validity of the Permanent Residence Document that will be issued will be 10 years. After expiry, the Permanent Residence Document is automatically renewed every ten years.
For additional information about the post-Brexit changes, read our article in our insights page titled British Nationals who consider Cyprus as their home.
Should you fail to meet the eligibility criteria for any of the aforementioned applications there’s no need to worry. Discover alternative pathways for moving from the UK to Cyprus by seeking either a permanent residence application OR a temporary residence application
Our professional team of lawyers is dedicated to ensuring that your journey of moving to Cyprus is not only smooth but also tailor-made to meet the unique facts of your case. For personalized support throughout your move from the UK to Cyprus, please do not hesitate to contact us. Your new chapter awaits, and our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.