Sustainability, Coastal Development, and Housing Affordability in the Context of the Golden Visas Scheme in Cyprus

This article examines the ways in which the issue of housing affordability in the framework of constructability and energy efficiency in buildings may be addressed, investigated, analyzed, and implemented in the context of the Golden Visas Scheme in Cyprus. The article starts by examining the interlinked challenges of energy poverty and housing affordability in the Eastern Mediterranean region, proposing prefabricated construction as a strategic solution. Countries such as Greece, Turkey, Syria, Lebanon, and Cyprus are seen in light of demographic shifts, post-conflict recovery, and environmental stressors. Furthermore, the article more specifically looks at the impact of Cyprus’ Golden Visa (residency-by-investment) scheme on housing affordability. Drawing on property transaction data (2021–2025), parliamentary debates, real estate analytics, and qualitative commentary, the article explores how foreign investment drives housing demand, distorts supply, and complicates affordability for Cypriots. Through references at price trend analysis, income-affordability metrics, and stakeholder interviews, it investigates the interplay between foreign investment, housing supply, and local economic capacity. It also includes policy proposals to harmonize economic inflow with social sustainability.