Cyprus Company Formation

Why Choose Cyprus?

Cyprus offers strategic advantages – business-friendly rules, EU membership, and tax benefits that work. The legal system runs on English common law, and it’s known for being transparent, stable, and straightforward when it comes to business operations.

Key benefits include: A corporate tax rate of 12.5%, no capital gains tax on share sales (unless the company owns Cyprus-based property), and no withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents. Cyprus maintains a broad double tax treaty network, offers an intellectual property regime with effective tax rates as low as 2.5%, and provides a streamlined regulatory environment that supports both substance and international structures.

Whether for holding, trading, financing, or IP ownership, Cyprus provides a robust and compliant base for international business.

Company Formation Options & Types

The most commonly used structure is the Cyprus Private Limited Company, which is versatile and well-suited for a broad spectrum of commercial activities. Other available options include public companies, partnerships, representative offices of foreign entities, and the redomiciliation of foreign companies into Cyprus, depending on the nature and goals of the business.

Our team can assist in evaluating the most appropriate structure for your objectives, whether operational or strategic.

The Cyprus Company Registration Process

The process begins with selecting a company name, which is submitted for approval to the Cyprus Registrar of Companies. Once approved, we prepare all statutory documentation, including the Memorandum and Articles of Association, company objectives, shareholding details, and officer appointments. These are prepared by our Cyprus-licensed lawyer, reviewed by the client, and signed by both parties where required.

A minimum of one director and one secretary must be appointed, and a registered office address in Cyprus is mandatory. We can provide both nominee and registered office services where required.

Following submission to the Registrar, incorporation is typically completed within a few working days. Upon approval, official corporate certificates are issued.

The company must then register with the Cyprus tax authorities and, if applicable, for VAT and social insurance. Beneficial ownership details must also be submitted to the UBO register within statutory timeframes.

All steps can be completed remotely. There is no requirement to be physically present in Cyprus or to provide original signed documents.

Timelines

Name approval takes 2 to 5 working days. Document submission to incorporation requires 4 to 6 working days. The complete process spans 7 to 10 business days.

Expedited services are available through pre-approved names or shelf companies.

Post-Registration Requirements

Once the company is incorporated, it must be registered with the Tax Department to obtain a Tax Identification Number (TIN). If the business activities fall within the scope of VAT, a VAT registration number must also be obtained. Social Insurance registration is required for employers to meet their obligations regarding contributions for their employees.

Accurate accounting records must be kept, and annual financial statements must be prepared in accordance with IFRS.

These financial statements must be audited by a licensed independent auditor and filed with the Registrar of Companies along with the Annual Return. In parallel, the company must submit its annual tax return (Form TD4) to the Tax Department, based on the audited financial results.

Adhering to these requirements is critical for maintaining good standing and full legal compliance.

Bank Account Setup

Opening a corporate bank account forms an important part of Cyprus company setup, though it’s not always required – this depends on how you plan to operate. The account can be with a Cypriot bank or an international one, whichever fits your business needs better.

You’ll need to submit ID documents and address verification for all directors and shareholders, plus the standard corporate paperwork. Working with someone experienced in this area helps ensure everything’s in order and prevents unnecessary delays in getting the account opened.

With the banking sorted, your company can handle day-to-day transactions and cash flow management while operating within Cyprus’s established business environment.

Ongoing Corporate Services

Beyond incorporation, we support your business with a full suite of professional services, including the provision of nominee directors, corporate secretary services, registered office address, accounting and tax compliance, audit services, and assistance with opening bank accounts.

We also advise on substance requirements for tax residency purposes and assist with company redomiciliation and restructuring. Whether you’re planning a new venture or a full company relocation to Cyprus, our services are designed to scale with your needs.