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Cyprus MEU1 & MEU2 Registration: Procedures for EU Citizens and Their Non-EU Family Members

MEU1 Registration for EU Nationals

The MEU1 Registration, known as the “Yellow Slip”, is a residency document for EU citizens planning to stay in Cyprus for over three months.

EU and EEA citizens who wish to reside in Cyprus for more than three months need to acquire the MEU1 Registration. Requirements include financial stability, health insurance, and proof of accommodation.

Applications for the MEU1 are processed at the Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia or the local District Administration Office. Necessary documents include a valid passport, residential proof, and income evidence.

The MEU1 serves as a legal residence proof, providing access to healthcare, educational, and employment opportunities in Cyprus.

Issuance of the MEU1 is immediate upon submitting the required paperwork to the relevant department.

MEU2 Card for Non-EU Family Members

Eligible family members include: the EU citizen’s spouse or civil partner, dependent children under 21 or those reliant on the EU citizen or their spouse, dependent direct relatives in the ascending line of the EU citizen and their spouse. Non-EU family members with valid passports accompanying or joining an EU citizen have the right to stay in Cyprus for up to four months without restrictions. The MEU2 Card application must be filed within four months of the non-EU family member’s arrival in Cyprus.

The application necessitates the presence of the EU citizen, with financial support coming from them.

Processing Time for Applications

Complete applications are typically processed within six months.

The MEU2 Card is valid for five years or for the duration of the EU citizen’s intended stay if shorter.

Renewal of the MEU2 Card is required one month after expiry if the holder remains in Cyprus with a validity period less than five years.

The card’s validity isn’t affected by absences of less than six months annually, compulsory military service, or a twelve-month leave for significant reasons like health or education. Extended absences invalidate the card.

Work Access

Non-EU family members of EU nationals enjoy unrestricted access to work in Cyprus.

Retention of Residence Rights Post-EU National’s Death or Departure

Non-EU family members maintain their residence rights in Cyprus after the EU national’s death or departure if they have lived there for a year prior to these events.

Children and parents with custody retain their residence rights if the children are enrolled in Cypriot educational institutions.

Rights Retention After Divorce or Partnership Dissolution

Non-EU family members keep their residence rights post-divorce or partnership dissolution in certain conditions:

if the marriage/partnership lasted at least three years, including one year in Cyprus; or if child custody is legally granted to the non-EU spouse; or in cases of domestic violence during the marriage/partnership; or if the non-EU spouse is granted contact rights with a minor child by court order, with the contact to occur in Cyprus. Rights are retained on a personal basis.

Required Documentation

The MEU2 process involves submitting documents like valid passports, marital or birth certificates, proof of relationship, accommodation, and sufficient financial means. MEU2 card issuance depends on the EU national’s (MEU1 holder) valid residence, requiring their presence during the non-EU national’s application submission.

Advantages of MEU2 Certificate

The MEU2 Certificate allows non-EU family members to legally reside in Cyprus, accessing the same services as MEU1 holders, including healthcare, education, and employment. It promotes family unity by allowing spouses and dependents to live together in Cyprus.

The MEU1 and MEU2 certificates are vital for European nationals and their non-European family members living in Cyprus, ensuring legal residence and access to key services. By carefully following the application processes and providing the required documents, families can fully benefit from legal residence in Cyprus. As Cyprus continues to embrace a diverse population, the MEU1 and MEU2 are essential for smooth integration of residents from various backgrounds.