Cyprus has put into effect revised housing‑support schemes aimed at revitalizing mountain, rural, remote and disadvantaged areas.
The updated schemes took effect on March 2 and form part of the state’s broader housing policy to strengthen citizens’ purchasing power and encourage permanent residence in underpopulated regions.
The plans, first introduced in 2019, provide financial assistance based on income criteria and family composition for the purchase or construction of a primary residence in eligible areas. They also support the government’s wider strategy to revive rural communities, mountain regions and areas near the buffer zone.
Between 2019 and 2025, authorities received 2,892 applications and approved 2,027, granting a total of about €77 million.
To make the schemes more attractive, the ministry introduced several improvements, including:
- A 20% increase in financial support for displaced beneficiaries.
- A €5,000 increase in the maximum grant for all family types under the Rural Scheme.
- A €5,000 rise in income‑eligibility thresholds across all regions and family categories.
- New family‑composition categories tied to number of children, raising maximum grants by €5,000 for larger families.
- Additional increases for special‑construction grants: €5,000 for mountain/disadvantaged areas and €15,000 for “high‑mountain, very small or remote” areas.
- Removal of the requirement for a minimum period of continuous residence in the Republic for Cypriot citizens, including returnees.
- The option to combine the housing schemes with Energy Ministry grant programs for home energy upgrades.
Applications will be accepted until 31 December 2027 through district administrations. Detailed guides and eligibility information are available on the Interior Ministry’s website under “Housing Policy.”