“Yellow Slip” is the common nickname for EU registration in Cyprus. Officially, it’s the Registration Certificate / MEU1 (often referred to as a “residence card”).
If you’re an EU citizen planning to stay in Cyprus for more than 3 months (for work, self-employment, or as a self-sufficient person), MEU1 is typically a key milestone — and it often comes up again for banking, insurance, and various administrative steps.
Key 2026 points: deadline and fee (official)
According to gov.cy, EU citizens (and EU family members) who wish to remain in Cyprus for longer than 3 months must obtain a residence permit within 4 months of arrival. For MEU1, a €20 fee is referenced.
Who MEU1 is for (and who it isn’t)
MEU1 applies to:
- EU citizens living in Cyprus
- family members who are also EU citizens
Family members who are not EU citizens fall under different procedures (e.g. MEU2). Permanent residence after longer lawful residence is typically handled under MEU3.
If you’re unsure which category applies to you, contact us: Contact.
Checklist: documents you should prepare
Exact requirements can vary by case and by office, but in practice you should prepare originals + copies of:
Basics (almost always)
- Passport or national ID card
- Proof of Cyprus address (e.g. rental agreement / title deed; often also a utility bill)
- Passport photo(s) as required
- MEU1 application form (and any relevant supporting forms)
Depending on your reason for stay
1) Employed in Cyprus
- Employment contract or employer confirmation letter
- social insurance registration evidence (if already available)
2) Self-employed / business owner
- Proof of self-employment/business activity (e.g. company documents, registrations, invoices/business plan depending on your situation)
- If you’re using a Cyprus Limited structure: Company formation in Cyprus (2026) or our service page: Company Formation
3) Self-sufficient
- Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements)
- Health insurance (private or other qualifying coverage)
4) Students
- Enrollment confirmation
- Health insurance + proof of sufficient funds
Tip: If your documents aren’t in English/Greek, plan for translations early. Need support for appointments? Interpreter services.
Step-by-step: how the application usually works
1) Secure your address and gather evidence
Address evidence is commonly a bottleneck. If you’re still searching, see: Real estate and Relocation to Cyprus.
2) Book an appointment / submit at the competent office
Submission is handled through the responsible migration/EU registration services (often district-based). Leave buffer time, especially during peak seasons.
3) Apply within 4 months and pay the fee
Submit within the official deadline and plan for the referenced fee (€20). Keep your submission receipts safely.
4) Archive everything for follow-up steps (bank, insurance, authorities)
Keep digital scans and copies. MEU1 is often requested later when you handle additional processes.
Common issues (quick fixes)
- Weak address evidence → organize your rental agreement + a recent utility bill early.
- No health insurance (self-sufficient/students) → clarify acceptable coverage in advance.
- Unclear status (employee vs self-employed) → keep your paperwork consistent.
- Language barrier → book an interpreter for the appointment.
MEU1 is often just the start
Many people combine MEU1 with:
- relocation planning: Relocation to Cyprus
- business setup: Company Formation
- tax planning: Non-Dom status in Cyprus
Sources (official references)
- Ministry of Interior (gov.cy) — residence cards (MEU1/MEU2/MEU3, deadlines, fee, contacts): gov.cy – Residence Cards
- Legal basis: Law 7(I) of 2007 (cylaw.org)
Need Support?
Our experienced team is available for all questions about living in Cyprus. From company formation to real estate to tax matters – we are your competent partner.
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