Pink Slip in Cyprus: how to obtain and renew it (a detailed guide for 2025)
A Pink Slip is a temporary residence permit in Cyprus that allows foreign nationals to stay in the country legally for longer than the standard 90-day period granted under the tourist visa scheme. This status is particularly popular amongst those planning to spend the winter on the island, those on a long-term holiday, those accompanying […]
A Pink Slip is a temporary residence permit in Cyprus that allows foreign nationals to stay in the country legally for longer than the standard 90-day period granted under the tourist visa scheme. This status is particularly popular amongst those planning to spend the winter on the island, those on a long-term holiday, those accompanying relatives, or those awaiting the processing of another type of residence permit. In 2025, the Pink Slip remains one of the most accessible ways to legally extend one’s stay without the right to work.
This article examines in detail the conditions for obtaining a Pink Slip, the requirements of the immigration authorities, the list of documents, the application procedure, processing times, grounds for refusal and advice from lawyers.
What is a Pink Slip and who is it suitable for?
A Pink Slip (Visitor Permit) is a temporary residence permit for individuals who:
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wish to stay in Cyprus for more than 90 days;
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do not plan to work within the Republic;
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have a stable income from abroad or their own savings;
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rent or have purchased a property in Cyprus;
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often accompany family members, are studying, undergoing medical treatment or awaiting the issuance of other visas or residence permits.
The status is granted for a period of between 6 months and 1 year and may be renewed an unlimited number of times, provided the conditions are met.
Important: holders of a Pink Slip lose their status upon leaving Cyprus; therefore, this document is suitable exclusively for long-term, continuous residence.
Key requirements for the Pink Slip (2025)
To obtain the permit, the applicant must demonstrate:
1. Financial solvency
The minimum recommended income is between 2,000 and 2,500 EUR per month after tax.
The Immigration Service accepts:
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bank statements covering 3–6 months;
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contracts with foreign employers;
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income statements;
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proof of savings.
2. Tenancy agreement
You must provide:
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a tenancy agreement for a minimum of 6–12 months;
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a copy of the landlord’s title deed or registration certificate;
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receipts for the deposit paid.
The tenancy must be formally documented — ‘private’ verbal agreements are not accepted.
3. Health insurance
The policy must cover:
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outpatient care,
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inpatient care,
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emergency care.
Travel insurance is not sufficient.
4. Proof of legal entry
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entry stamp,
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copy of visa or information regarding visa-free entry.
List of documents required for the Pink Slip
The full set usually includes:
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passport + copies of all pages;
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2 passport-sized photographs;
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completed forms M.125 and MGEN1;
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a tenancy agreement;
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bank statements;
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proof of income or savings;
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health insurance;
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a certificate of no criminal convictions (not always required, but it is best to have one);
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receipt for payment of government fees.
For family applications, the following must also be included:
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a marriage certificate (translated and apostilled);
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children’s birth certificates.
Procedure for obtaining a Pink Slip
1. Preparing the documents
Prepare a complete set of documents, including originals and copies.
It is recommended that you gather all financial evidence covering the last 6 months.
2. Booking an appointment with the immigration service
You can make an appointment:
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via the Civil Registry and Migration Department (CRMD) portal,
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by email to the local branch,
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via municipal offices (depending on the town or city).
The registration process may take 2–6 weeks.
3. Submitting documents
At the appointment, you will need to:
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provide the originals and copies of your documents;
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complete the immigration forms;
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have your biometric data taken (photo and fingerprints);
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pay the state fee of 70–120 EUR.
Once you have submitted your application, you will receive a receipt allowing you to remain in the country legally until a decision is made.
4. Awaiting a decision
Standard processing time: 6–12 weeks.
During peak season, it may take longer.
Extending your Pink Slip
The renewal follows the same procedure as the initial application, but:
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your current Pink Slip must still be valid at the time of application;
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you must confirm that you have not left Cyprus;
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the immigration service may request updated financial documents.
The renewal period is 6–12 months.
Reasons for refusal
The most common reasons are:
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insufficient income;
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unverified tenancy;
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lack of insurance;
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attempts to find employment in Cyprus;
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incomplete set of documents;
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previous breaches of immigration law;
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regular travel outside Cyprus whilst the status is valid.
Common mistakes made by applicants
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Submitting documents in the final days of the current status.
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Declaring unverified income.
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Submitting uncertified translations.
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Renting accommodation without a formal tenancy agreement.
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Filling in forms incorrectly.
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Attempting to use a Pink Slip as a work visa.
Advice from lawyers
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Prepare your documents 3–4 weeks before submitting your application.
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Always keep copies of all forms and receipts.
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Ensure your tenancy agreement is drawn up formally – this is a mandatory requirement.
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Use accredited translators.
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Do not leave the island until your application has been approved.