The Necessary Steps for Establishing a Cyprus Company

  • Additional Practical Resources for Cyprus Company Formation

Choosing the Right Type of Business Entity in Cyprus

In Cyprus, several business structures are available, and the choice of structure depends on factors such as liability, ownership, and tax implications. The most common types of companies are:

  • Private Limited Company (Ltd): The most popular structure for small and medium-sized businesses, limiting shareholders’ liability to the amount of their investment.
  • Public Limited Company (PLC): Used for larger companies and those looking to raise capital through public share offerings.
  • Branch of a Foreign Company: Foreign companies can register a branch in Cyprus for conducting business activities on the island.
  • Sole Proprietorship: A simpler option for individuals who wish to run a business independently.
  • Partnerships: Suitable for two or more individuals who wish to share profits, liabilities, and management.

Each entity type has different legal, tax, and operational considerations. Understanding the best fit for your business goals and operations in Cyprus is crucial. We guide clients through this decision-making process based on their needs.

Company Registration Process in Cyprus

To officially establish your business in Cyprus, the following steps are required:

  • Choosing a Business Name: Your business name must be unique and not already in use. It should also comply with the Cyprus Registrar of Companies’ naming conventions.
  • Preparing Documents: You will need to prepare key documents, including the company’s Articles of Association, a business plan, and identification documents for shareholders and directors.
  • Filing with the Cyprus Registrar of Companies: The Articles of Association and other documents must be submitted to the Cyprus Registrar of Companies (Department of Registrar of Companies and Official Receiver) for approval. This is the governmental body that handles the registration of businesses in Cyprus.
  • Paying Registration Fees: A fee is required to complete the registration process, which varies based on the type of company being registered.

We help streamline this process by ensuring that all documents are prepared in accordance with Cyprus regulations and assist with submitting these to the appropriate local government agencies.

Compliance with Cyprus Laws and Regulations

Once registered, your Cyprus company must comply with various ongoing legal obligations, including:

  • Corporate Taxation: Cyprus offers one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the European Union (12.5%). You must maintain accurate financial records and file annual tax returns with the Cyprus Tax Department.
  • VAT Registration: If your business exceeds a certain revenue threshold, you will need to register for VAT with the Cyprus Tax Department.
  • Annual Filings and Reports: All Cyprus companies are required to file an annual return with the Cyprus Registrar of Companies. This includes submitting financial statements and confirming any changes in company structure or operations.
  • Maintaining Legal Records: Cyprus law mandates that all companies maintain up-to-date financial records, including accounting books, payroll records, and tax documentation.

We provide comprehensive services to ensure your business stays compliant with all Cyprus regulations, including tax filings, record-keeping, and ongoing government submissions.

Licensing and Permits

Depending on the nature of your business, you may be required to obtain certain licenses and permits. These can vary by industry and location. For instance:

  • Trade Licenses: Some businesses, such as retail stores and restaurants, may need to apply for a trade license from the local municipality.
  • Industry-Specific Licenses: Specific industries like financial services, healthcare, and real estate may require additional permits.
  • Immigration and Work Permits: If hiring non-Cypriot staff, work permits may be necessary for foreign employees.

We can assist with identifying the necessary licenses for your business and help you through the application process.

Opening a Bank Account in Cyprus

To begin operating, your Cyprus company will need to open a local business bank account. The process involves:

  • Selecting a Bank: Cyprus is home to several well-established banks offering business banking services, including local and international banks.
  • Providing Documentation: You will need to submit documentation such as proof of company registration, identification of directors and shareholders, and details about the business activity.

We assist in facilitating the bank account opening process by ensuring that all necessary documentation is provided and the process is completed efficiently.

Taxation System in Cyprus

Cyprus offers a favorable tax system for businesses, including:

  • Corporate Tax Rate: A standard corporate tax rate of 12.5%, one of the lowest in the European Union.
  • VAT: The standard VAT rate is 19%, with reduced rates for specific goods and services.
  • International Tax Treaties: Cyprus has a network of double taxation treaties with over 60 countries, reducing the risk of being taxed in multiple jurisdictions.

We can help ensure your business benefits from these tax advantages by providing expert tax planning, compliance, and advisory services.

Ongoing Corporate Compliance in Cyprus

In addition to filing taxes, your business will need to maintain compliance with a range of ongoing corporate requirements. These include:

  • Filing Annual Returns: Every company in Cyprus is required to file an annual return, including financial statements.
  • Auditing: Cyprus companies must appoint an external auditor to review the company’s financial records and prepare annual audited accounts.
  • Shareholder and Director Updates: Any changes in shareholders, directors, or the company’s structure must be reported to the Registrar of Companies.

Our team supports businesses in ensuring they meet these ongoing compliance requirements, from preparing annual returns to arranging for an external audit.

Building a Network in Cyprus

Cyprus has a thriving business ecosystem, offering numerous opportunities for collaboration and networking. Establishing connections with local suppliers, service providers, and potential clients is vital for gaining a strong foothold in the market. Engaging with business organizations such as the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry can provide access to a wide network of resources and opportunities.

Importance of Local Connections

Building local connections in Cyprus is crucial for several reasons:

  • Market Insights: Local suppliers and service providers can offer valuable insights into market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive positioning.
  • Collaboration Opportunities: Networking can lead to partnerships and collaborations that enhance business capabilities and market reach.
  • Resource Access: Establishing relationships with local players can provide access to resources that may not be available to foreign businesses, such as local expertise, materials, and services.

Key Business Organizations

Engaging with key business organizations can significantly benefit your business:

  • Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI): The CCCI is a pivotal organization that supports businesses in Cyprus. It offers networking opportunities, business support services, and access to a vast network of local and international businesses.
  • Cyprus Employers and Industrialists Federation (OEB): OEB represents employers and industrialists in Cyprus, providing advocacy, training, and networking opportunities.
  • Cyprus Investment Promotion Agency (CIPA): CIPA promotes Cyprus as an attractive investment destination and offers support to businesses looking to invest or expand in Cyprus.

Networking Events and Trade Shows

Participating in networking events and trade shows is an excellent way to build connections:

Business Conferences: Attending business conferences in Cyprus can help you meet industry leaders, potential partners, and clients.

Trade Fairs: Trade fairs provide a platform to showcase your products or services, meet suppliers, and explore new business opportunities.

Workshops and Seminars: These events offer learning opportunities and a chance to network with professionals in your industry.

How We Assist Our Clients

We assist our clients in connecting with key local players and providing valuable insights into the Cyprus market:

Introductions to Local Suppliers and Service Providers: We facilitate introductions to reliable local suppliers and service providers, ensuring you have the resources needed to operate efficiently.

Market Research and Analysis: Our team conducts thorough market research to provide insights into the Cypriot market, helping you make informed business decisions.

Networking Opportunities: We organize and recommend networking events, trade shows, and business conferences that align with your industry and business goals.

Support from Business Organizations: We help you engage with key business organizations such as the CCCI, OEB, and CIPA, providing access to their resources and support services.

By leveraging our expertise and local connections, we help you navigate the Cypriot business ecosystem, ensuring your business establishes a strong presence and thrives in the market.

How We Support Your Cyprus Company Setup

As your trusted partner, we provide comprehensive services to guide you through the Cyprus company setup process:

  • Incorporation Assistance: We handle all documentation, filings, and interactions with the Cyprus Registrar of Companies, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.
  • Legal and Tax Advisory: Our team of experts offers strategic advice on legal structures, tax planning, and compliance requirements.
  • Ongoing Support: From annual filings to regulatory updates, we provide continuous support to help your business stay compliant and thrive in Cyprus.

By partnering with us, you can focus on growing your business while we manage the complexities of Cyprus company formation and operations.

Understanding Cyprus’s Labor Laws for Setting Up a Business

When setting up a business in Cyprus, understanding the country’s labor laws is critical, especially if you plan to hire employees. Cyprus has well-defined regulations to protect both employers and employees, ensuring a balanced and fair working environment. Key areas of concern for businesses include:

Employment Contracts

Cyprus law mandates written employment contracts for all employees. These contracts should outline:

  • Terms of Employment: Including the duration (fixed-term or indefinite), probation period, and termination conditions.
  • Job Duties: A clear description of the employee’s responsibilities and role within the company.
  • Salary and Benefits: Details on the employee’s remuneration, including base salary, bonuses, and any additional benefits such as health insurance or company car.
  • Working Hours: The expected working hours per week and any provisions for overtime.
  • Leave Entitlements: Information on annual leave, sick leave, maternity/paternity leave, and other statutory leave entitlements.

Working Hours

The standard working week in Cyprus is typically 38 hours, but this can vary depending on the industry. Cyprus adheres to EU regulations concerning:

  • Working Time: Maximum weekly working hours, including overtime, should not exceed 48 hours.
  • Breaks: Employees are entitled to rest breaks during the working day, typically a minimum of 15 minutes for every 6 hours worked.
  • Overtime Pay: Employees working beyond the standard hours are entitled to overtime pay, which is usually at a higher rate than the regular hourly wage.

Minimum Wage and Benefits

Although Cyprus does not have a statutory minimum wage for all sectors, certain industries have specific minimum wage regulations:

  • Retail and Hospitality Sectors: These sectors have defined minimum wages that employers must adhere to.
  • Statutory Benefits: Employees are entitled to benefits such as:
    • Vacation Days: Typically, employees are entitled to at least 20 days of paid annual leave.
    • Sick Leave: Employees are entitled to sick leave, with the duration and pay depending on the length of service and collective agreements.
    • Maternity/Paternity Leave: Statutory leave entitlements for new parents, including maternity leave (18 weeks) and paternity leave (2 weeks).

Social Insurance

Employers are required to contribute to the national social insurance scheme, which covers:

  • Pensions: Contributions towards the employee’s retirement fund.
  • Health Insurance: Coverage for medical expenses and healthcare services.
  • Unemployment Benefits: Financial support for employees in case of job loss.
    The rates for contributions are shared between the employer and the employee, with specific percentages allocated to each party.

Health and Safety Regulations

Cyprus has stringent health and safety regulations to ensure a safe working environment:

  • Risk Assessments: Employers must conduct regular risk assessments to identify and mitigate workplace hazards.
  • Safety Training: Providing employees with adequate training on health and safety practices.
  • Emergency Procedures: Establishing clear procedures for emergencies, including fire drills and first aid.

Employee Rights and Protections

Cyprus labor laws provide robust protections for employee rights:

  • Non-Discrimination: Employers must ensure a non-discriminatory workplace, providing equal opportunities regardless of gender, race, religion, or disability.
  • Grievance Procedures: Establishing procedures for employees to raise grievances and ensuring they are addressed promptly and fairly.
  • Redundancy and Termination: Clear guidelines on redundancy procedures and employee entitlements in case of termination.

How We Assist

We can assist in navigating Cyprus’ employment laws by offering comprehensive guidance on:

  • Labor Contracts: Drafting and reviewing employment contracts to ensure compliance with Cypriot law.
  • Employee Rights: Advising on employee rights and employer obligations to foster a fair working environment.
  • Social Insurance Registration: Assisting with the registration process for social insurance contributions.
  • Employee Benefit Packages: Creating competitive employee benefit packages that comply with statutory requirements and attract top talent.
  • Compliance Audits: Conducting audits to ensure ongoing compliance with labor laws and regulations.
  • Training and Development: Providing training programs on labor law compliance and best practices for HR management.

By leveraging our expertise, you can ensure that your business adheres to Cyprus’s labor laws, creating a compliant and productive workplace.

Cyprus Investment Promotion and Incentives

Cyprus is an attractive destination for foreign investment, offering various incentives to businesses that choose to incorporate there. The country’s strategic location, favorable tax regime, and robust legal framework make it an ideal hub for international business operations. Here are some key benefits and incentives available to investors in Cyprus:

Tax Incentives for Investors

Cyprus provides several tax incentives to businesses, making it a highly attractive destination for investment:

  • Corporate Tax Rate: Cyprus has one of the lowest corporate tax rates in the European Union at 12.5%.
  • Intellectual Property (IP) Box Regime: Businesses involved in research and development (R&D) can benefit from significant tax exemptions on qualifying IP assets. This includes patents, software, and other IP rights, allowing companies to enjoy an effective tax rate as low as 2.5% on income derived from IP.
  • Double Tax Treaties: Cyprus has an extensive network of double tax treaties with over 60 countries, reducing the risk of double taxation on international transactions.
  • Tax Exemptions: Exemptions are available for capital gains from the disposal of securities, dividend income, and profits from permanent establishments abroad.

EU Market Access

As a member of the European Union, businesses in Cyprus can access the EU’s single market, which offers:

  • Large Consumer Base: Access to over 500 million consumers within the EU, facilitating the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
  • Trade Agreements: Benefit from the EU’s trade agreements with other countries, providing preferential access to global markets.
  • Regulatory Alignment: Compliance with EU regulations ensures that products and services meet high standards, enhancing credibility and marketability.

Investment Funds

Cyprus has a growing financial services sector with attractive regulations for establishing investment funds:

  • Alternative Investment Funds (AIFs): Cyprus offers a favorable regime for AIFs, which can be used for managing investments and pooling resources for large projects. AIFs can be set up as umbrella funds with multiple sub-funds, providing flexibility for investors.
  • Undertakings for Collective Investment in Transferable Securities (UCITS): UCITS funds in Cyprus benefit from a harmonized regulatory framework, allowing them to be marketed across the EU.
  • Tax Benefits: Investment funds in Cyprus enjoy various tax benefits, including exemptions on income from dividends, interest, and capital gains.

Financial Services Regulation

Cyprus is a regulated financial hub, offering strong legal and regulatory frameworks for businesses in the financial sector:

  • Fintech and Cryptocurrency: Cyprus has developed a supportive environment for fintech and cryptocurrency services, with clear regulations and guidelines from the Cyprus Securities and Exchange Commission (CySEC).
  • Banking Sector: The Cypriot banking sector is well-regulated, providing a stable environment for financial transactions and services.
  • Insurance and Reinsurance: Cyprus offers a robust regulatory framework for insurance and reinsurance companies, making it an attractive destination for these businesses.

Government Grants and Financial Incentives

The Cypriot government offers various grants and financial incentives to support business growth and innovation:

  • Research and Development Grants: Financial support for R&D projects, encouraging innovation and technological advancement.
  • Startup Incentives: Programs and grants aimed at supporting startups and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), including funding for business development and expansion.
  • Investment Aid Schemes: Incentives for large-scale investments in strategic sectors such as tourism, energy, and information technology.

How We Support Our Clients

We support our clients in taking full advantage of Cyprus' investment opportunities by offering comprehensive services, including:

  • Establishing Tax-Efficient Structures: We help businesses set up tax-efficient structures to maximize their benefits from Cyprus’s favorable tax regime.
  • Accessing Government Grants: Our team assists in identifying and applying for relevant government grants and financial incentives to support business growth.
  • Regulatory Compliance: We provide guidance on complying with Cyprus’s legal and regulatory frameworks, ensuring smooth and lawful operations.
  • Market Entry Strategies: We develop tailored market entry strategies to help businesses successfully penetrate the Cypriot market and the broader EU market.
  • Investment Fund Setup: Our experts assist in establishing and managing investment funds, leveraging Cyprus’s attractive regulatory environment.

By leveraging our expertise and local knowledge, we help businesses navigate the complexities of investing in Cyprus, ensuring they capitalize on the numerous opportunities available in this dynamic market.

Real Estate and Office Setup in Cyprus

Once your company is registered, securing office space in Cyprus is a crucial step to establish your business presence. Cyprus offers a variety of options to cater to different business needs, from traditional office leases to virtual offices. Here’s a detailed look at the available options and how we can assist you in setting up your office in Cyprus:

Office Space Options

Traditional Office Leases:

  • Location: Major cities like Nicosia, Limassol, and Larnaca are the primary business hubs, offering a range of office spaces.
  • Types of Offices: You can find various types of office spaces, including standalone buildings, office complexes, and business parks.
  • Lease Terms: Lease agreements typically range from short-term (1-3 years) to long-term (5-10 years), with options for renewal.
  • Facilities: Traditional offices often come with essential facilities such as meeting rooms, reception areas, and parking spaces.

Serviced Offices:

  • Flexibility: Serviced offices offer flexible lease terms, allowing businesses to scale up or down as needed.
  • Amenities: These offices come fully furnished and equipped with amenities such as high-speed internet, administrative support, and access to meeting rooms.
  • Cost-Effective: Ideal for businesses looking to minimize upfront costs and avoid long-term commitments.

Co-Working Spaces:

  • Community Environment: Co-working spaces provide a collaborative environment, perfect for startups, freelancers, and small businesses.
  • Flexible Memberships: Options range from hot desks to dedicated desks and private offices, with flexible membership plans.
  • Networking Opportunities: These spaces often host networking events, workshops, and seminars, fostering a sense of community and collaboration.

Commercial Property

Retail Spaces:

  • Prime Locations: Retail spaces are available in high-traffic areas such as shopping malls, high streets, and commercial districts.
  • Customization: Properties can be customized to suit the specific needs of your retail business, including layout, design, and branding.

Warehousing and Industrial Use:

  • Logistics: Warehousing options are available near major ports and transportation hubs, facilitating efficient logistics and distribution.
  • Industrial Parks: Industrial properties are located in designated industrial parks, offering facilities for manufacturing, storage, and distribution.

Rental and Purchase Options:

  • Rental: Renting commercial property provides flexibility and lower initial investment, making it suitable for businesses testing the market.
  • Purchase: Purchasing property can be a long-term investment, offering stability and potential appreciation in value.

Virtual Office

Prestigious Business Address:

  • Professional Image: A virtual office provides a prestigious business address in a prime location, enhancing your company’s professional image.
  • Mail Handling: Services include mail handling and forwarding, ensuring you receive all correspondence promptly.

Phone Answering Services:

  • Dedicated Phone Line: A dedicated phone line with professional answering services ensures that all calls are handled efficiently.
  • Call Forwarding: Calls can be forwarded to your preferred number, allowing you to stay connected with clients and partners.

How We Assist

Finding Suitable Office Locations:

  • Market Research: We conduct thorough market research to identify the best office locations based on your business needs and budget.
  • Property Tours: Arranging property tours to help you evaluate different options and make an informed decision.

Negotiating Lease Agreements:

  • Expert Negotiation: Our team negotiates lease terms on your behalf, ensuring favorable conditions and competitive rates.
  • Legal Assistance: Providing legal assistance to review and finalize lease agreements, ensuring compliance with local regulations.

Setting Up Physical or Virtual Offices:

  • Office Setup: Assisting with the setup of your physical office, including furnishing, IT infrastructure, and administrative support.
  • Virtual Office Services: Setting up virtual office services, including mail handling, phone answering, and meeting room access.

Ongoing Support:

  • Facility Management: Offering ongoing support for facility management, maintenance, and administrative services.
  • Business Expansion: Assisting with office expansion or relocation as your business grows.

By leveraging our expertise and local knowledge, we ensure that your office setup in Cyprus is smooth and efficient, allowing you to focus on growing your business. Whether you need a traditional office, serviced office, co-working space, commercial property, or virtual office, we provide comprehensive support to meet your specific requirements.

Cyprus’s Digital Economy and E-Commerce Opportunities

Cyprus has positioned itself as an ideal location for digital businesses, with an increasingly digital economy offering multiple opportunities for entrepreneurs in sectors such as e-commerce, IT services, and online business. The country’s digital infrastructure and services are growing rapidly, making it an excellent choice for tech-savvy entrepreneurs and digital enterprises. Here’s a detailed look at the opportunities and how we can assist you:

E-Commerce Regulations

Cyprus has a well-defined regulatory framework for e-commerce businesses, ensuring a secure and compliant environment for online operations:

  • Data Protection: Cyprus adheres to the EU’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), ensuring robust data protection standards for businesses handling personal data.
  • E-Signatures and Electronic Contracts: The legal framework supports the use of electronic signatures and contracts, facilitating seamless online transactions and agreements.
  • Consumer Protection: Regulations are in place to protect consumers in online transactions, including clear terms of service, return policies, and dispute resolution mechanisms.
  • Cross-Border Operations: As an EU member, Cyprus follows the EU’s Digital Single Market principles, allowing businesses to operate across borders within the EU seamlessly.

Digital Innovation Incentives

The Cyprus government actively promotes digital innovation through various programs and incentives:

  • Startup Funding: Grants and funding programs are available for startups, particularly those involved in technology development and digital services.
  • Research and Development (R&D) Incentives: Companies engaged in R&D can benefit from tax incentives and financial support to foster innovation.
  • Technology Hubs and Incubators: Cyprus hosts several technology hubs and incubators that provide resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities for tech startups.
  • Digital Transformation Grants: Financial support is available for businesses looking to digitize their operations, including investments in digital tools and technologies.

IT and Tech Infrastructure

Cyprus offers an excellent digital infrastructure to support the growth of digital businesses:

  • High-Speed Internet: The country boasts high-speed internet connectivity, essential for running digital operations smoothly.
  • Data Centers: Modern data centers provide secure and reliable hosting services, ensuring data integrity and availability.
  • Tech Talent Pool: An expanding pool of tech professionals, including software developers, IT specialists, and digital marketers, is available to support digital enterprises.
  • Cybersecurity: Strong cybersecurity measures and frameworks are in place to protect digital businesses from cyber threats and ensure compliance with international standards.

E-Commerce Market Potential

Cyprus presents significant market potential for e-commerce businesses:

  • Growing Online Consumer Base: The number of online shoppers in Cyprus is steadily increasing, driven by a tech-savvy population and rising internet penetration.
  • Cross-Border E-Commerce: Businesses can tap into the broader EU market, leveraging Cyprus’s strategic location and regulatory alignment with the EU.
  • Diverse Market Segments: Opportunities exist across various market segments, including retail, travel, financial services, and digital products.

How We Assist

We help digital entrepreneurs navigate the legal requirements of e-commerce and online business in Cyprus, ensuring compliance and smooth operations:

Business Registration and Setup:

  • Company Formation: Assisting with the registration and setup of your digital business, including legal entity formation and compliance with local regulations.
  • Licensing and Permits: Guiding you through the process of obtaining necessary licenses and permits for e-commerce operations.

Regulatory Compliance:

  • Data Protection: Ensuring compliance with GDPR and other data protection regulations, including data handling, storage, and processing practices.
  • Consumer Protection Laws: Advising on consumer protection laws and best practices for online transactions, returns, and dispute resolution.
  • E-Signatures and Contracts: Facilitating the use of electronic signatures and contracts, ensuring they meet legal requirements.

Digital Infrastructure and Cybersecurity:

  • IT Infrastructure Setup: Assisting with the setup of IT infrastructure, including high-speed internet, data centers, and cloud services.
  • Cybersecurity Compliance: Implementing robust cybersecurity measures to protect your business from cyber threats and ensure compliance with international standards.

Access to Funding and Incentives:

  • Grant Applications: Helping you identify and apply for relevant grants and funding programs to support your digital business.
  • R&D Tax Incentives: Advising on available R&D tax incentives and how to maximize their benefits.

Market Entry and Expansion:

  • Market Research: Conducting market research to identify opportunities and develop strategies for entering the Cypriot and EU markets.
  • Networking and Partnerships: Connecting you with local tech hubs, incubators, and potential partners to support your business growth.

By leveraging our expertise and local knowledge, we ensure that your digital business in Cyprus is set up for success, compliant with all regulations, and positioned to take advantage of the numerous opportunities in the digital economy. Whether you are launching an e-commerce platform, developing IT services, or exploring online business ventures, we provide comprehensive support to help you thrive in Cyprus’s dynamic digital landscape.

Support for Foreign Investors in Cyprus

Cyprus continues to attract foreign investors due to its favorable business climate, low taxation, and access to EU markets. Whether you are looking to establish a new business or expand your existing operations, Cyprus provides numerous advantages:

Low Corporate Tax Rates

Cyprus boasts one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at 12.5%, making it an attractive option for foreign investors. Additional tax benefits include:

  • Double Tax Treaties: Cyprus has an extensive network of double tax treaties with over 60 countries, reducing the risk of double taxation on international transactions.
  • Tax Incentives: Various tax incentives are available for businesses, including exemptions on dividends, interest income, and profits from overseas permanent establishments.
  • Intellectual Property (IP) Box Regime: Businesses involved in research and development can benefit from significant tax reductions on income derived from qualifying IP assets.

Access to EU Markets

As a member of the European Union, Cyprus offers unrestricted access to the EU single market, providing several benefits:

  • Large Consumer Base: Access to over 500 million consumers within the EU, facilitating the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people.
  • Trade Agreements: Benefit from the EU’s trade agreements with other countries, providing preferential access to global markets.
  • Regulatory Alignment: Compliance with EU regulations ensures that products and services meet high standards, enhancing credibility and marketability.

High-Quality Professional Services

Cyprus offers a highly skilled workforce and a well-established network of professional services to support foreign businesses:

  • Legal Services: Experienced legal professionals provide comprehensive services, including company formation, contract law, and compliance with local and EU regulations.
  • Accounting and Financial Services: Cyprus has a robust accounting and financial sector, offering services such as auditing, tax planning, and financial advisory.
  • Human Resources: Access to a pool of highly educated and multilingual professionals, ensuring businesses can find the talent they need.

Strategic Location

Cyprus’s strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa makes it an ideal hub for international business operations:

  • Logistics and Transportation: Excellent logistics and transportation infrastructure, including modern ports and airports, facilitate efficient trade and travel.
  • Time Zone Advantage: The convenient time zone (GMT+2) allows for seamless business operations with Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

Quality of Life

Cyprus offers a high quality of life, making it an attractive destination for expatriates and their families:

  • Climate: Enjoy a Mediterranean climate with mild winters and long, sunny summers.
  • Healthcare: Access to high-quality healthcare services, both public and private.
  • Education: A range of international schools and higher education institutions, providing excellent educational opportunities.

How We Support Foreign Investors

We offer tailored solutions to foreign investors, ensuring a smooth and successful business setup in Cyprus:

Company Registration:

  • Business Formation: Assisting with the registration and incorporation of your company, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.
  • Legal Structuring: Advising on the best legal structure for your business, whether it’s a limited liability company, branch, or representative office.

Tax Optimization Strategies:

  • Tax Planning: Developing tax-efficient structures to minimize your tax liabilities and maximize your profits.
  • Compliance: Ensuring compliance with local and international tax regulations, including VAT, corporate tax, and transfer pricing.

Investment Structures:

  • Real Estate Investments: Assisting with the acquisition and management of commercial and residential properties.
  • Financial Investments: Advising on investment opportunities in Cyprus’s financial markets, including stocks, bonds, and investment funds.

Professional Services:

  • Legal Advisory: Providing comprehensive legal services, including contract drafting, dispute resolution, and intellectual property protection.
  • Accounting and Auditing: Offering accounting, auditing, and financial reporting services to ensure your business meets all regulatory requirements.
  • HR and Recruitment: Assisting with the recruitment and management of local talent, including payroll services and employee benefits administration.

Market Entry and Expansion:

  • Market Research: Conducting market research to identify opportunities and develop strategies for entering the Cypriot and EU markets.
  • Networking and Partnerships: Connecting you with local business networks, industry associations, and potential partners to support your business growth.

By leveraging our expertise and local knowledge, we ensure that your investment in Cyprus is successful and compliant with all regulations. Whether you are establishing a new business or expanding your existing operations, we provide comprehensive support to help you achieve your business goals in Cyprus.




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Before text How to Start a Business

Stepping into the Cyprus landscape

Stepping into the Cyprus business landscape offers numerous advantages for entrepreneurs. With its strategic location at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Cyprus serves as an ideal hub for international operations.

The country boasts one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe at 12.5%, making it an attractive destination for foreign investment. Additionally, Cyprus's membership in the European Union provides businesses with unrestricted access to the EU single market.

Cyprus's well-developed legal and regulatory framework ensures a secure environment for business operations. The island also offers high-quality professional services, including legal, accounting, and financial support.

Entrepreneurs can benefit from the streamlined process of registering a branch in Cyprus, which can be completed in as little as one day. Notably, a notary is not required for branch registration, simplifying the process further.

Can Someone
Who Isn’t a
Resident of
Cyprus Still
Start a Company?

How about we discuss your choices?

Yes, non-residents can start a company in Cyprus. The country offers a straightforward process for foreign entrepreneurs to establish businesses, including options like limited liability companies (LLCs) and branch registrations.

Cyprus's favorable tax regime, strategic location, and access to the EU market make it an attractive destination for international business operations.

House of Companies provides comprehensive support to non-residents, ensuring a smooth registration process and compliance with local regulations.

Choose Between
a Branch and
a Subsidiary
in Cyprus

How about we discuss your choices?

Choosing between a branch and a subsidiary in Cyprus depends on your business goals.

A branch is quicker to set up and allows for direct control from the parent company, but it doesn't offer separate legal liability.

A subsidiary, typically a limited liability company (LLC), provides legal independence and limited liability protection but involves more complex setup and compliance requirements.

Consider your operational needs and risk tolerance when making this decision.

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