Entry permit and temporary residence permit for students
higher education
Third-country nationals accepted for a full-time higher education course at a Cyprus institution enter with an entry permit issued by the Migration Department on the institution's application. After arrival they register in the Aliens' Register and obtain a temporary residence permit, renewed yearly until the programme ends. Students may work limited hours in sectors set by Ministry of Labour decree. Master's-level graduates and above may stay up to 12 months to seek work or set up a business.
Life in Cyprus
Money
3
Currency
Euro
EUR
Euro
Cost of living
67
Price level · US = 100
World Bank price levels, 2025
Tax
20–35%
Income tax (national)
VAT 19%
After the 2026 reform: 0% up to EUR 22,000, 20%/25%/30%, then 35% above EUR 72,000.
Living
1
Happiness
#60 of 145 countries
World Happiness Report 2025
Your edge here Members
What gives you an edge here: passports, visas and permits you hold, work, study, language and family ties
Who it’s for
Non-EU students admitted to full-time degree, diploma, certificate or doctoral programmes at registered or recognised Cyprus higher education institutions.
Eligibility
Admission to a higher education institution
Accepted for a full-time course of study leading to a higher education qualification recognised by Cyprus.
Recognised institution
The institution must be registered with the Cyprus Ministry of Education or recognised as such under national law or practice.
Institution applies for the entry permit
The entry permit application is submitted by the higher education institution.
A sneak peek at what's inside
- Next requirementWhere the application can be made
- Document checklistApplication form MEDU (entry/residence for students)
- FeesEntry permit and residence permit application
The full requirements are for members
Create an account and subscribe to see every requirement, the full document checklist, fees, steps, processing times and conditions, and how your profile compares.
- 5 more requirements
- 8 documents
- 6 fees
- 8 steps
- Processing times and conditions
Programs and scholarships Members
Study programs here that can lead to work and settlement, grouped by route and ranked for your background, with scholarships matched to your profile.
Places to visit in Cyprus
Attractions picked for you, based on your profile and interests.
Finding places for you…
Official sources
Other routes to Cyprus
- Visit & tourismCyprus short-stay visa (type C) and visa-free visits
- Work permitsTemporary residence and employment permit for third-country nationals
- FamilyFamily reunification of family members of third-country nationals
- Investors & entrepreneursCyprus Digital Nomad Visa Scheme
