In this article, we will provide a complete guide to the MEU3 Cyprus form, including who is eligible, the requirements, the processing time, and the validity period. By the end of this article, you will have a clear understanding of what the MEU3 form entails and how to successfully apply for it.

Who is Eligible for MEU3 Cyprus?

EU citizens living in Cyprus for a continuous period of 5 years are eligible to apply for a permanent residence certificate, which will confirm their right to permanently live in the country. The EU Citizen family members who are not citizens of a Member state will need to apply within one month after the expiration of the validity of their Yellow Slip MEU2 which is 5 years, to obtain a permanent residence.

It’s important to note that individuals who are planning to work in Cyprus should not apply for permanent residence but rather the MEU1 or MEU2 forms, depending on their employment status. If you are unsure which application form is suitable for you, you can consult with an immigration lawyer or the Immigration Department of Cyprus.

What is the Particularity of the MEU3 in Cyprus?

The MEU3 form is for EU citizens and their family members who have been continuously living in Cyprus for five years and wish to obtain permanent residency in Cyprus. It confirms their right to live permanently in the country.

Non-EU family members of EU citizens need to apply for permanent residence within one month after the expiration of their Yellow Slip MEU2, which is valid for five years.

Compared to other application types, the MEU3 has more lenient requirements as it is not designed for individuals who are employed or self-employed in Cyprus. Instead, it is intended for retirees, students, or individuals with sufficient financial resources to support themselves without needing to work.

What are the Requirements of the MEU3?

If you’re considering applying for a MEU3 in Cyprus, it’s important to be aware of the documentation and information required for the application. The requirements may vary depending on your individual circumstances and the category of applicant you fall under. Here’s an overview of the general requirements for the MEU3 application:

1. Proof of legal entry into Cyprus (e.g. entry stamp in passport)
2. Proof of accommodation in Cyprus (e.g. rental agreement)
3. Valid passport or another travel document
4. Police clearance certificate from your country of origin (for applicants over the age of 18)
5. Proof of sufficient financial resources to support yourself (e.g. bank statements, employment contract, etc.)
6. Proof of private medical insurance coverage in Cyprus

In addition to these general requirements, there may be specific requirements depending on your individual situation. For example, if you’re an employee outside of Cyprus, you may need to provide a work contract or letter from your employer. If you’re self-employed, you may need to provide documentation of your business registration in Cyprus.

It’s important to carefully review the requirements and ensure that you have all the necessary documentation before submitting your application. Failure to provide all the required documentation can result in delays or even rejection of your application. This is the reason why it’s advised to apply through a legal expert. Contact us to get in touch with a trusted immigration law firm specializing in immigration.

What’s the Processing Time of the MEU3?

The processing time for the MEU3 application can vary depending on the workload of the relevant authorities and the completeness of the application. In general, the processing time is estimated to be around 6-7 months.

It is important to note that the processing time may be longer if additional information or documentation is requested or if there are any errors or omissions in the application. It is recommended that applicants ensure that their application is complete and accurate before submitting it to avoid any delays.

How Long is the MEU3 Valid?

The validity of the Yellow Slip MEU3 can be affected by absences longer than six months in a year. However, certain types of absences, such as military service or a maximum of 12 consecutive months of absence for important reasons like pregnancy, childbirth, serious illness, study, or vocational training, will not affect the validity of the Yellow Slip. 

If an individual is absent for more than two consecutive years, their right to permanent residence will be lost. It’s important to note that any absences must be within the limits allowed by law, as exceeding those limits can affect the validity of the MEU3.

Making the Right Choice: Understanding the MEU3 Application Process in Cyprus

As we come to the end of this article on the MEU3 application type, it’s important to summarize the key points covered. We discussed who is eligible to apply for the MEU3, its particularity, and benefits, the documentation and information required, as well as the processing time and validity period.

We hope that this article has provided you with a better understanding of the MEU3 application type and its requirements. For a complete overview of immigration in Cyprus, we have created a guide for the two other application types: MEU1 and MEU2. Finally, we have created a guide that provides a comparison of the three types of applications to help you choose the best option for your situation.