I am writing this with my hands shaking, because I’ve just recieved The Greatest News ever since Maxim was born.
My naturalization application has been approved. Yeeehaaaa! I am one step away from getting Cyprus citizenship, and that one step is only about paperwork.
I have spent slightly more than 10 years in Cyprus. I’ve passed several stages both mentally and beaurocractically. From – I hate this place to I love this place. From tourist, through student, to employed alien. I’ve seen both old pink slips and new pink slips. ‘Final’ mark was printed on all pink slips that I got since January of 1999. ‘Final. Not extendable’ mark was printed on all pink slips that I got for the last three or four years.
But now, all of it is behind me. I won’t have to worry about being thrown out of this country ever again.
There is a lot to do too. I have to learn Greek now. I have to get Cypriot driving license. I have to study all legal implications of my status change. I have to find out all financial benefits – taxes, loans, mortgages, etc. I have to grow proper roots…
Today, though, I am glad and quietly celebrating. Major celebrations will follow, when I’ll have Cyprus passport in my hands. Thanks to everyone who helped and is helping in the process!