PR Category 6.2 & GESY Registration in Cyprus

Cyprus has become a preferred destination for investors and their families seeking residence in the European Union. Many third-country nationals obtain Permanent Residence (PR) under Category 6.2, by investing at least €300,000 in property. A frequent question we receive is whether PR holders are automatically entitled to register with the General Health System (GESY), Cyprus’s universal healthcare scheme.

The answer is no: holding PR status on its own does not grant GESY coverage. Registration is possible only if certain additional requirements are met.

Requirements for GESY Registration

1. Valid PR Permit
The applicant must hold the plastic PR residence card issued by the Civil Registry and Migration Department. The temporary ARC certificate is not sufficient.

2. Tax Residency in Cyprus
Applicants must become tax residents of Cyprus, either under the 183-day rule or the 60-day rule (subject to conditions). A Tax Identification Code (TIC) must be obtained from the Tax Department.

3. Declared Income in Cyprus
An annual income tax return must be filed in Cyprus. Income may arise from rents, dividends, or other taxable sources. Based on this declared income, GESY contributions are calculated.

4. Payment of GESY Contributions
GESY contributions (currently 2.65% for individuals) are paid directly through the Cyprus Tax Department. Since PR holders are not permitted to work in Cyprus, contributions are not deducted via payroll but must be declared and settled through the tax system.

5. Registration on the GESY Platform
Once contributions are being paid, applicants may register online at www.gesy.org.cy and select a Personal Doctor. This grants full access to Cyprus’s public healthcare services.

Key Point
Permanent Residence under Category 6.2 does not in itself provide access to GESY. Eligibility requires tax residency, declared income, and the payment of contributions. Only once these conditions are met can PR holders register and enjoy healthcare coverage under the system.