A Gateway for Innovative Entrepreneurs

In today’s dynamic global economy, innovation-driven founders are seeking not only spots in the market—but strategic footholds that offer market access, favorable business conditions, and growth momentum. The Cyprus Startup Visa Scheme offers precisely that for non-EU entrepreneurs choosing Europe as their launch pad.

1. What the Scheme Offers

The Cyprus Startup Visa Scheme enables talented entrepreneurs and small startup teams from non-EU/EEA countries to enter, reside and work in Cyprus for the purposes of establishing or scaling an innovative startup.

The scheme runs until December 2026 and is capped—underscoring its selective, value-driven nature.

There are two main beneficiary tracks:

• Individual Startup Visa – For a single founder applying.

• Team Startup Visa – For a team of up to five non-EU nationals, founders and/or senior executives.

In both cases, key conditions apply on share-ownership and business setup.

2. Why Cyprus? Strategic Advantages for Founders

A. Market Access & Location

Situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, Cyprus serves as a gateway for international business with convenient access to the EU market.

B. Business-Friendly Conditions

Cyprus offers a competitive tax regime and a business environment attractive to startups. For founders this means more than just subsidies—it means operational efficiency and global connectivity.

C. Innovation Ecosystem

The scheme links to the broader national policy of boosting the entrepreneurial ecosystem, research, and job creation in Cyprus.

3. Eligibility & Key Requirements

Startup/Business Requirements

• The business must qualify as an “innovative startup”: for example developing new technology, business models or disruptive services.

• Proof of secured funding (e.g., €20,000 minimum or varying depending on team size) may be required.

• The business plan must demonstrate growth potential, scalability, and economic contribution.

• Registration (or intention to register) of the company in Cyprus.

• Physical or co-working office presence in Cyprus.

Founder/Team Requirements

• Non-EU/EEA nationality. Innovation-driven startup intent.

• Clean criminal record, valid health insurance and other personal qualifications.

• Share-ownership: typically a minimum of 25% ownership in the applying company for the applicant(s).

4. Major Benefits for Entrepreneurs

• Residence & Work Rights: Successful applicants—and their families—receive residence & work permits in Cyprus for the duration of the program.

• Spouse Work Access: Spouses of founders can access the labour market under the same terms.

• Access to EU Market: As an EU member, Cyprus offers strategic access and legal alignment for EU-market operations.

• Tax Efficiency: Founders operate in a jurisdiction with favorable tax conditions, enhancing the financial viability of startup operations.

• Supportive Ecosystem: Growing network of accelerators, incubators, co-working spaces and multilingual talent in Cyprus.

5. Application Process at a Glance

1. Documentation & Preparation – Business plan, proof of funds, CVs of founders, company registration intent.

2. Submit to Competent Authority – Applications are submitted to the Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation & Digital Policy (or a designated authority). Decisions on initial approval typically within ~5 weeks.

3. Entry Visa / Work & Residence Permit – Applicants (if abroad) must apply within 6 months after initial approval; internal upgrades apply if already in Cyprus.

4. Evaluation & Renewal – The business must demonstrate innovation and growth to secure renewals or longer-term residence status.

6. Strategic Role of Didi’s Family Office

At Didi’s Family Office, we specialize in guiding innovative founders through this journey—from eligibility assessment and business-plan crafting to company registration, visa application handling and post-approval support. Our end-to-end service ensures you focus on building your business while we handle the structure, compliance and relocation roadmap.

7. Final Thoughts

For ambitious non-EU entrepreneurs looking to establish a base in Europe, the Cyprus Startup Visa Scheme presents a compelling strategic opportunity: combining access to the EU, favorable business conditions, and a growing ecosystem of innovation. But success lies not just in applying—it lies in preparing a stellar startup proposition, aligning fully with the scheme’s criteria and engaging with the process robustly.

If you’re ready to make your innovation global, let’s explore how Cyprus can anchor your next growth phase.

📩 Contact Didi’s Family Office, today for a consultation.