European Commission terminates infringement procedure against Cyprus over investment program

On March 11, 2026, the European Commission officially closed the infringement procedure against the Republic of Cyprus regarding the former Cyprus Investment Programme (CIP). The Commission initiated the legal action on the grounds that the sale of citizenship violated European Union law. While Cyprus terminated the program on November 1, 2020, the Commission requested additional legislative amendments before concluding the case. The Cypriot government addressed these concerns by revoking specific citizenships based on findings from the Nikolatou and Kalogirou investigation committees and finalizing the legal framework. High-level discussions were held between Cypriot officials and EU Commissioners Didier Reynders and Michael McGrath to monitor compliance. The Cypriot Law Office and government officials welcomed the closure of the case, viewing it as recognition of their efforts toward institutional reform and transparency. The legal basis for the program was formally abolished by December 12, 2025.