The Republic of Cyprus is home to one of the world’s largest diasporas relative to its population. Families in the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States, and South Africa often ask whether their children also qualify for Cypriot citizenship by descent. The answer is usually yes, but the process depends on when the parent applies, where the child was born, and which legal provisions apply.
This guide explains how Cyprus citizenship is passed to children, what paperwork families need, and what parents should expect if applying on their child’s behalf through a citizenship application process governed by the Ministry of Interior.
Why Citizenship for Children Matters
For children, Cypriot citizenship is more than a passport. It’s a set of rights that can shape their education, career, and family life:
- Education access: EU citizens pay lower tuition fees at universities across Europe.
- Healthcare: Children can benefit from Cyprus’ national healthcare system and EU reciprocal care.
- Mobility: With a Cyprus passport, they can enjoy European citizenship rights and travel visa-free to over 170 countries.
- Work opportunities: Later in life, they will be able to take jobs anywhere in the EU without needing a work permit.
- Heritage connection: Citizenship is formal recognition of a family’s Cypriot origins and cultural identity.
For many parents, ensuring their children’s Cypriot citizenship at the same time as their own is about preserving legacy and securing a shared future within the Republic of Cyprus and the broader EU community.
How Cypriot Citizenship Passes to Children
Nationality law in Cyprus is based on descent (jus sanguinis), not place of birth. This means what matters most is whether a parent was a Cypriot citizen, not where the child was born.
Children Born to Cypriot Citizens
If one or both parents are Cypriot citizens at the time of birth, the child is entitled to Cyprus citizenship. For example, a child born in London in 2008 to a Cypriot parent qualifies automatically. Parents must register the birth with Cypriot authorities for the citizenship to be formally recognized through the Civil Registry or local District Administration Office.
Children Born Before Parent’s Recognition
If a parent gains Cyprus citizenship later in life, eligibility depends on the child’s age:
- Minors (under 18): Parents may apply on their behalf using the appropriate registration form.
- Adults (18 and older): They must apply independently.
Adopted Children
Adopted minors also qualify for Cypriot citizenship once the adoption is legally recognized by the Cypriot government or the Council of Ministers.
Legal Framework
In Cyprus, the Citizenship Law of 1967 and subsequent amendments established similar processes to protect those of Cypriot descent living abroad.
The main application forms are:
- Form M121: For children of Cypriot citizens.
- Form M123: For adults born abroad to a Cypriot parent.
- Form M124: For grandchildren of Cypriot citizens.
The Citizenship Law of 1967 and its later amendments were designed to simplify the citizenship application process for families across the United Kingdom and other diaspora communities. These procedures were created to extend citizenship rights to the many families living abroad after independence.
Application Process for Children
Step 1: Parent’s Status
Determine whether the parent is already a recognized Cypriot citizen or currently applying. If the parent is applying, the child’s case can usually be submitted at the same time.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Parents will need to collect:
- The child’s long-form birth certificate listing both parents.
- The parent’s Cypriot citizenship documents (passport or certificate).
- Adoption or custody papers if relevant.
Step 3: File the Application
Applications may be submitted at:
- The Civil Registry and Migration Department in Nicosia, or
- A Cypriot embassy or consulate abroad.
Determine whether the parent is already a recognized Cypriot citizen or currently applying. If the parent is applying, the child’s case can usually be submitted at the same time.Determine whether the parent is already a recognized Cypriot citizen or currently applying. If the parent is applying, the child’s case can usually be submitted at the same time.Determine whether the parent is already a recognized Cypriot citizen or currently applying. If the parent is applying, the child’s case can usually be submitted at the same time.Determine whether the parent is already a recognized Cypriot citizen or currently applying. If the parent is applying, the child’s case can usually be submitted at the same time.
Step 4: Processing
Applications usually take 12–18 months. Delays may occur depending on the migration department or the case volume before the Council of Ministers.
Step 5: Registration
Once approved, the child’s citizenship is added to the Civil Registry. Families can then apply for a Cyprus passport and ID card, granting them the rights of European Union citizens.
Documents Checklist
- Child’s birth certificate (long form).
- Parent’s Cypriot passport or certificate of citizenship.
- Passports for both parent and child.
- Marriage certificate of parents, if applicable.
- Adoption decrees, if relevant.
- Apostilles and certified translations into Greek or English.
Dual Citizenship for Children
Cyprus allows dual citizenship, meaning children can hold Cypriot citizenship alongside their original nationality. This is especially valuable for families in the United Kingdom, U.S., or Australia who want to maintain their existing rights.
Many parents secure both permanent residence abroad and Cyprus citizenship, ensuring their children retain full European citizenship rights and freedom of movement.
Common Challenges
Pre-1960 Births
If the child’s parent or grandparent was born before Cyprus’ independence in 1960, additional proof of Cypriot origins may be required.
Registration Delays
Parents sometimes delay registering births abroad, which can complicate the process, though eligibility remains intact.
Processing Time
Like many EU countries, Cyprus has significant backlogs. Families should prepare for a wait of at least a year due to high demand within the migration department and the Ministry of Interior.
Example Scenarios
- Born Abroad to a Cypriot Father
Elena, a Cypriot citizen, lives in Melbourne and has a son in 2016. She registers his birth at the Cypriot consulate. He is recognized as a citizen and receives a Cypriot passport. - Parent Applies Later
Andreas, born in South Africa, applies for citizenship in 2024 based on his grandparents’ Cypriot descent. His 14-year-old daughter is included in the process. Once his recognition is complete, she is also registered as a citizen. - Adopted Child
A family in London adopts a 10-year-old while one parent is a Cypriot citizen. Once the adoption is legally recognized, the child qualifies for Cypriot citizenship.
Reconnecting Families Through Cyprus Citizenship by Descent
Obtaining Cyprus Citizenship by Descent offers far more than legal recognition — it provides families of Cypriot origins a way to reconnect with their homeland and preserve their cultural identity.
Through reforms by the Cypriot government and oversight by the Council of Ministers, both children and adults of Cypriot descent can secure citizenship rights that extend throughout the European Union.
For many, Cyprus Citizenship by Descent serves as a bridge between past and future, offering the chance to hold a second passport, gain permanent residence, and enjoy lifelong ties to the Republic of Cyprus.
Children of Cypriot citizens are entitled to Cypriot citizenship, whether automatic at birth or through later recognition. By applying early, parents can ensure their children gain the same EU rights, from mobility and education to healthcare and cultural belonging.
You can take our eligibility quiz today to find out if your child qualifies for Cypriot citizenship by descent.
Sign up now to get started with the help of our citizenship experts.
FAQs
Do children qualify automatically if one parent is Cypriot?
Yes, but parents must register the birth at a Cypriot consulate or District Administration Office to be formally recognized.
What if the parent gains citizenship later?
Children under 18 can be included. Adults must apply separately.
Is there an age limit?
Yes. After 18, children must file their own citizenship application.
Do children need to speak Greek or Turkish?
No. Language requirements apply only to naturalization, not to Cypriot citizenship by descent
How long does the process take?
Usually 12–18 months, depending on the Cypriot authorities and Civil Registry verification.