Cyprus is the other EU nation to offer a direct citizenship-by-investment route. The applicant must make an investment of at least €2 million in real estate, government bonds, a bank deposit in a Cyprus bank, or investment in a new company. Investors must possess a permanent privately-owned residence in the Republic of Cyprus, the purchase price of which must be at least €500,000. The applicant, prior to his/her naturalization as a Cypriot citizen must hold a residence permit in Cyprus.

As a citizen of Cyprus, you can take advantage of a range of personal benefits which include:

• EU citizenship for investor and his family (including children under the age of 28) within 6 months

• Dual citizenship permitted

• Protection by the diplomatic or consular authorities of any EU country

• Visa-free travel to 157 countries 

• Freedom to reside, work, do business, study and travel anywhere in the EU, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Iceland

• Right to vote and stand for European Parliament elections

• Ability to sell the investment in 3 years

• Children may take advantage of excellent education facilities including several UK universities with campuses on the island

• Live in the 5th safest country in the world with the lowest crime rate in Europe