|Understand the full process of Cyprus company registration. From documentation to choosing the right business entity type and adhering to post incorporation compliances, E-Startup has a team of experts that will pay attention and work for you so that your business runs smoothly. We provide you with online Cyprus Company Registration in an easy, online and quick process. Talk to an expert right now: 8881-069-069
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Cyprus is amongst Europe's best and most attractive business destinations. It attracts entrepreneurs and investors from around the world. The reason is simple. Having a company registration in Cyprus means you get a unique combination of strategic advantages.
#. Strategic Location and EU Access
Cyprus sits at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa, providing businesses with exceptional access to multiple markets. As a full member of the European Union since 2004, Company Registration in Cyprus offers:
- Unrestricted access to the EU single market with over 450 million consumers
- Gateway to emerging markets in the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Europe
- Time zone advantages that facilitate business with both European and Asian markets
- Well-connected infrastructure including modern ports and international airports
#. Business-Friendly Environment
The Cypriot government has cultivated a reputation for being pro-business through:
- Streamlined registration process that can be completed in as little as 5-7 business days
- Flexible corporate structures accommodating various business models
- English as a widely spoken business language, alongside Greek
- Common law legal system based on English law, familiar to international investors
- Strong regulatory framework that balances compliance with business facilitation
#. Highly Skilled Workforce
Cyprus boasts one of the highest education levels in the EU, with a workforce that is:
- Multilingual, with proficiency in English, Greek, Russian, and other languages
- Well-educated, with many professionals holding degrees from international universities
- Experienced in international business practices
- Cost-competitive compared to Western European countries
#. Quality of Life
Beyond business considerations, Cyprus offers entrepreneurs an exceptional living environment:
- Mediterranean climate with over 300 days of sunshine annually
- Low crime rates and political stability
- Excellent healthcare and education systems
- Cosmopolitan lifestyle with a blend of European and Middle Eastern cultures
- Affordable cost of living compared to other EU nations
Cyprus Company Registration offers tax and financial benefits that you can’t get anywhere else. For example:
#. Corporate Tax Advantages
- 12.5% corporate tax rate – one of the lowest in the European Union
- No withholding tax on dividend payments to non-resident shareholders
- No withholding tax on interest and royalty payments to non-residents (in most cases)
- Exemption on profits from the sale of securities, regardless of holding period
- Notional interest deduction on new equity, reducing the effective tax rate further
- Extensive double tax treaty network with over 65 countries, preventing double taxation
#. IP and Royalty Benefits
Cyprus has become a hub for intellectual property management through:
- 80% exemption on profits from IP, resulting in an effective tax rate of just 2.5%
- Favorable treatment of royalty income with minimal taxation
- No withholding tax on outbound royalty payments in most cases
- Protection of IP rights under robust legal frameworks
#. Dividend and Capital Gains
- 0% tax on dividend income received from other companies (subject to conditions)
- Dividend distributions are tax-free for recipients
- No capital gains tax on the sale of shares (except for immovable property-rich companies)
- Participation exemption for profits and losses from permanent establishments abroad
#. VAT and Other Considerations
- 19% standard VAT rate, competitive within the EU
- Access to EU VAT directives for cross-border transactions
- No inheritance tax, wealth tax, or gift tax
- Generous tax residency rules requiring only 60 days of presence under certain conditions
#. Holding Company Advantages
Cyprus is particularly attractive for holding company structures due to:
- Tax-efficient dividend repatriation with no withholding tax
- Capital gains exemption on sale of subsidiaries
- Flexible repatriation of profits without additional tax burden
- Substance requirements that are achievable with proper structuring
#. Financial Sector Benefits
- Well-regulated banking sector adhering to EU standards
- Access to international payment systems
- Currency flexibility with the Euro as the national currency
- Established professional services sector including accounting, legal, and corporate services firms
#. Compliance and Transparency
While offering significant tax advantages, Cyprus maintains:
- Full compliance with OECD standards including BEPS initiatives
- Transparent tax system recognized internationally
- Exchange of tax information agreements demonstrating commitment to international cooperation
- Substance requirements ensuring legitimate business operations
Cyprus Company Registration can be done in various structures. Each structure offers unique benefits and helps you meet your own unique needs. Hence, you can choose any of the business entity type as per follows:
| Business Entity Type | Description | Minimum Share Capital | Liability | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Limited Company (Ltd) | Most common structure for Cyprus company registration. Shares are not publicly traded. | €1 (though €1,000 recommended) | Limited to share capital | Small to medium businesses, holding companies, international trading |
| Public Limited Company (PLC) | Shares can be offered to the public and traded on stock exchanges. | €25,629 (fully paid) | Limited to share capital | Large enterprises, companies planning IPO, public fundraising |
| Branch of Foreign Company | Extension of a foreign parent company operating in Cyprus. | No minimum requirement | Parent company liable | Foreign companies wanting local presence without separate entity |
| Partnership | Business owned by two or more individuals sharing profits and liabilities. | No minimum requirement | Unlimited (general partners) | Professional services, family businesses, joint ventures |
| Sole Proprietorship | Business owned and operated by a single individual. | No minimum requirement | Unlimited personal liability | Freelancers, small-scale operations, consultants |
| Limited Partnership | Combination of general partners (unlimited liability) and limited partners. | No minimum requirement | Mixed (general: unlimited; limited: limited) | Investment funds, private equity structures |
| Holding Company | Entity established to hold shares in other companies. | €1 minimum | Limited to share capital | International tax planning, asset protection, group structures |
| Category | Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Shareholders | Minimum number required | At least 1 shareholder (individual or corporate) |
| - | Maximum number allowed | Up to 50 shareholders for private companies |
| - | Nationality restrictions | None; any nationality accepted |
| - | Residency requirements | No Cyprus residency required |
| Directors | Minimum number required | At least 1 director (natural person) |
| - | Nationality restrictions | No restrictions |
| - | Residency requirements | One Cyprus tax-resident director recommended for tax benefits |
| - | Age requirement | Minimum 18 years |
| Company Secretary | Requirement | Mandatory for all companies |
| - | Qualifications | Individual or corporate entity |
| - | Residency | No Cyprus residency required |
| Registered Office | Requirement | Must have a physical address in Cyprus |
| - | Type | Cannot be a P.O. Box; must be a real location |
| - | Usage | Used for all official correspondence |
| Share Capital | Minimum for Private Ltd | €1 (but €1,000 recommended) |
| - | Minimum for Public PLC | €25,629 (fully paid) |
| - | Currency | Any currency allowed (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.) |
| - | Payment deadline | Can be paid over time for private companies |
| Company Name | Uniqueness | Must not duplicate existing names |
| - | Language | Any language using Latin characters |
| - | Prohibited words | No government-linked or regulated-activity terms without license |
| - | Suffixes | Must end with “Limited” or “Ltd” for Private; “Public” for PLC |
| Documentation | Individuals | Passport copy, proof of address, professional references |
| - | Corporate shareholders | Certificate of incorporation, register of directors/shareholders, certificate of good standing |
| - | Legalization | May require notarization or apostille | Local Presence | For tax residency | Company must be managed and controlled from Cyprus |
| - | For substance | Adequate local presence required (office, employees, meetings) |
The Cyprus company registration process is simple if you have all the necessary experience and information. With proper preparation, most companies complete registration within 5-10 business days. Here are the essential steps to get Cyprus Company Registration.
Choose and Reserve Company Name
Search the Companies Registrar database to verify your proposed name is available and complies with regulations. Reserve your chosen name for 60 days and prepare alternative options as backup.
Prepare Documentation and Appoint Officers
Draft your Memorandum and Articles of Association, and gather certified passport copies and proof of address for all directors and shareholders. Appoint at least one director and a company secretary, and secure a physical registered office address in Cyprus. Appointing a Cyprus tax resident director provides additional tax benefits for your Cyprus company registration.
Submit Application and Obtain Certificate
Submit your application to the Registrar of Companies with all required forms, including Form HE1, along with your founding documents. Pay the registration fees (€200-€350). The Registrar typically reviews applications within 3-5 business days and issues your Certificate of Incorporation with your official company registration number.
Complete Tax and VAT Registration
Register with the Cyprus Tax Department within 60 days to obtain your Tax Identification Number (TIN). Register for VAT if your turnover exceeds €15,600, and register with Social Insurance Services if employing staff.
Open Corporate Bank Account
Establish a corporate bank account by providing your Certificate of Incorporation, Articles of Association, and identification for directors and beneficial owners. The banking KYC process typically takes 2-4 weeks.
Finalize Setup and Commence Operations
Issue share certificates, establish statutory registers, and implement accounting systems. Obtain any required business licenses for regulated activities. Hold your first board meeting, adopt company policies, and begin operations while maintaining proper records for ongoing Cyprus company registration compliance.
#. For All Shareholders (Individual)
- Certified copy of valid passport
- Proof of residential address (utility bill, bank statement, or tax document dated within last 3 months)
- Bank reference letter
- Professional reference letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Completed Cyprus company registration questionnaire/application form
#. For Corporate Shareholders
- Certificate of Incorporation
- Certificate of Good Standing (or equivalent)
- Memorandum and Articles of Association
- Register of Directors
- Register of Shareholders
- Register of Beneficial Owners
- Board resolution approving the investment in Cyprus company
- Certified copies of passports for directors and beneficial owners
- Proof of address for directors and beneficial owners
#. For All Directors
- Certified copy of valid passport
- Proof of residential address (dated within last 3 months)
- Bank reference letter
- Professional reference letter
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Consent to act as director
#. For Company Secretary
- Certified copy of passport (if individual)
- Certificate of Incorporation (if corporate)
- Consent to act as company secretary
#. Memorandum of Association
#. Articles of Association
#. Form HE1 (Declaration of Compliance)
#. Form HE2 (Notice of Registered Office Address)
#. Form HE3 (Particulars of Directors and Secretary)
#. Statement of proposed share capital
#. Allocation of shares among shareholders
#. Proof of registered office address in Cyprus
#. Lease agreement or property ownership documents
#. Consent letter from property owner (if applicable)
#. Special business licenses or permits
#. Professional qualifications (for regulated activities)
#. Source of funds documentation
#. Business plan
#. Shareholders' agreement
#. Share transfer documents (if relevant)
#. Power of Attorney (if representatives are acting on behalf of shareholders/directors)
#. Apostille or notarization certificates for foreign documents
#. All documents in foreign languages must be translated into English or Greek by certified translator
#. Documents issued outside Cyprus may require apostille certification
#. Certified copies must be authenticated by notary public, lawyer, or authorized official
#. Some documents must be dated within 3-6 months of submission
#. Banks may require additional documentation during Cyprus company registration and account opening process
#. Incomplete or improperly certified documents may delay your Cyprus company registration application
Overview of Taxation after Cyprus Company Registration
| Tax/Compliance Item | Rate/Requirement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate Income Tax | 12.5% | One of the lowest in the EU; applies to worldwide income for tax resident companies |
| Dividend Income | 0% | Dividends received from other companies are tax-exempt (subject to conditions) |
| Capital Gains Tax | 0% | No tax on sale of securities (except immovable property-rich companies) |
| Withholding Tax on Dividends | 0% | No withholding tax on dividends paid to non-residents |
| Withholding Tax on Interest | 0% | No withholding tax on interest paid to non-residents (in most cases) |
| Withholding Tax on Royalties | 0% | No withholding tax on royalties paid to non-residents (subject to conditions) |
| Intellectual Property (IP) Tax | 2.5% effective | 80% exemption on qualifying IP income |
| Value Added Tax (VAT) | 19% | Standard rate; 9% and 5% reduced rates for specific goods/services |
| VAT Registration Threshold | €15,600 | Mandatory registration when annual turnover exceeds this amount |
| Social Insurance (Employer) | 8.3% | On employee salaries up to maximum insurable earnings |
| Social Insurance (Employee) | 8.3% | Employee contribution on salaries |
| Special Defense Contribution | 0–3% | Applies to Cyprus tax residents on passive income (dividends, interest, rental) |
| Notional Interest Deduction (NID) | Up to 80% of taxable income | Tax relief on new equity contributed to the company |
| Annual Tax Return Filing | Within 15 months | Tax returns must be filed within 15 months of year-end |
| Provisional Tax Payments | 31 July and 31 December | Two installments equal to 75% and 100% of previous year's tax |
| Annual Return to Registrar | Within 8 months | Submit annual return (Form HE32) to Companies Registrar |
| Audited Financial Statements | Annually | Required for all companies (unless exempt by size criteria) |
| Annual General Meeting (AGM) | Once per year | Must be held within 18 months of incorporation, then annually |
| Board Meetings | Minimum annually | Board meetings should be held in Cyprus for tax residency purposes |
| Statutory Registers | Ongoing | Maintain updated registers of directors, shareholders, secretaries |
| Transfer Pricing Documentation | As applicable | Required for related party transactions; comply with OECD guidelines |
| Country-by-Country Reporting | For large groups | Applies to multinational groups with consolidated revenue over €750 million |
| Ultimate Beneficial Owner (UBO) Register | Mandatory | Register and update beneficial ownership information with Registrar |
| Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Compliance | Ongoing | Maintain KYC records, report suspicious transactions |
| GESY (National Health System) | 2.65% employer + 2.65% employee | Contributions on salaries and other income |
| Accounting Records | Mandatory | Keep proper books and records for minimum 6 years |
| Substance Requirements | Ongoing | Maintain adequate physical presence, local directors, and decision-making in Cyprus |
| Double Tax Treaty Benefits | Case-by-case | Access to 65+ treaties; requires substance and tax residency certificate |
| Penalties for Late Filing | €100–€340 | Late annual returns incur penalties; tax delays subject to interest and fines |
| Compliance Requirement / Obligation | Deadline / Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Department Registration | Within 60 days of incorporation | Register the company with Cyprus Tax Department |
| VAT Registration | When turnover exceeds €15,600 or before taxable activities | Mandatory VAT registration based on threshold or activity |
| First Annual Return (Form HE32) | Within 18 months of incorporation | First submission to Companies Registrar |
| Subsequent Annual Returns | Within 8 months after year-end | Annual filing of Form HE32 |
| Tax Return Filing | Within 15 months after year-end | Annual corporate tax return submission |
| Provisional Tax Payment (1st installment) | 31 July | First provisional tax installment |
| Provisional Tax Payment (2nd installment) | 31 December | Second provisional tax installment |
| First Annual General Meeting | Within 18 months of incorporation | Mandatory first AGM |
| Audited Financial Statements Submission | With annual tax return | Submit audited accounts unless exempt |
| UBO Register Updates | Within 14 days of any changes | Update beneficial ownership information |
| Annual Return Filing | Annual | Submit Form HE32 to Companies Registrar |
| Financial Statements Audit | Annual | Prepare and audit financial statements |
| Tax Return Submission | Annual | File corporate tax return with Tax Department |
| VAT Returns | Quarterly/Monthly | Submit VAT returns depending on registration status |
| Social Insurance Contributions | Monthly | Pay employer and employee social insurance contributions |
| GESY Contributions | Monthly | Pay National Health System contributions |
| Board Meetings | As needed | Hold meetings in Cyprus, maintain minutes |
| Maintain Statutory Registers | Ongoing | Keep registers of directors, shareholders, secretary updated |
| Renew Business Licenses | Annual / As required | Renew necessary sector-specific permits |
| Transfer Pricing Documentation | Annual | Prepare documentation for related party transactions |
| AML/KYC Compliance | Ongoing | Maintain due diligence, monitor and report suspicious activities |
#. Choose Your Bank: Select from local Cypriot banks (Bank of Cyprus, Hellenic Bank), international banks (HSBC), or digital EMIs based on your business needs.
#. Prepare Documentation: Gather your Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association, director and shareholder identification, proof of address, business plan, and source of funds documentation.
#. Submit Application: Contact the bank's corporate department, complete application forms, and submit all required documents with proper certification.
#. Attend Interview: Meet with bank officials (in-person or via video) to explain your business model and expected transactions.
#. Due Diligence Period: Banks conduct KYC/AML checks, typically taking 2-4 weeks.
#. Account Activation: Upon approval, sign final documents, make initial deposit (usually €1,000-€10,000), and receive online banking access.
#. Timeline: The complete process takes 2-6 weeks after Cyprus company registration.
Completing your Cyprus company registration opens doors to exceptional residency and citizenship opportunities that can transform your business and lifestyle.
| Benefit Category | Key Advantages |
|---|---|
| Fast-Track Residency | Permanent residency in just 2 months with €300,000+ investment |
| EU Freedom | Live, work, and travel freely across all 27 EU member states |
| Tax Residency | Access Cyprus's 12.5% corporate tax rate and extensive treaty network |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse, children under 18, and dependent parents eligible |
| No Residence Requirement | Visit Cyprus just once every 2 years to maintain permanent residency |
| Business Growth | Establish credibility with EU residency status for global expansion |
| Education Access | Premium European education system for your children |
| Healthcare Benefits | World-class medical facilities and EU health coverage |
| Lifestyle Quality | 300+ days of sunshine, low crime, Mediterranean culture |
| Investment Security | Stable EU economy with strong property rights protection |
| Banking Access | Enhanced banking relationships with EU residency status |
| Global Mobility | Visa-free or visa-on-arrival to 170+ countries |
E-Startup makes the Cyprus company registration process easy, faster, and fully compliant. With E-Startup, the complete Cyprus company registration process becomes simple, from selecting the right business structure to ensuring all applications are accurately filed with the Companies Registrar and tax authorities. E-Startup ensures a smooth, efficient, and hassle-free Cyprus company registration experience.
The best part is that you can complete your Cyprus company registration with E-Startup from anywhere in the world. The entire process is managed online, and registration is typically completed within 5–10 business days.
E-Startup also provides expert guidance on banking setup, tax optimization, and post-registration compliance, helping you establish a fully operational business entity with confidence. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or global business owner, E-Startup simplifies every step to make your Cyprus company registration seamless and secure. In short, Let E-Startup handle the complexities while you focus on growing your business.
Absolutely! When you proceed with Cyprus company registration, you'll be pleased to know that 100% foreign ownership is permitted. Moreover, there are no nationality or residency restrictions for shareholders, making it ideal for international entrepreneurs.
Actually, while it's not strictly mandatory for Cyprus company registration, having at least one Cyprus tax-resident director is highly recommended. Furthermore, this demonstrates substance and ensures you can access the attractive 12.5% corporate tax rate and double taxation treaty benefits.
Yes, however, you need to ensure it's a legitimate physical address. During Cyprus company registration, virtual office services are accepted as long as they provide a genuine physical location for official correspondence. Nevertheless, P.O. boxes are not permitted.
Generally, yes. After completing your Cyprus company registration, you're required to prepare and file audited financial statements annually. However, very small companies may qualify for exemptions based on specific size criteria under certain conditions.
Not exactly. Following Cyprus company registration, your company will be subject to Cyprus's 12.5% corporate tax on worldwide income if it's tax-resident. Nevertheless, with proper structuring and utilizing double tax treaties, you can significantly optimize your effective tax rate.
Primarily, you can use either English or Greek. Throughout the Cyprus company registration process, both languages are officially accepted for your Memorandum and Articles of Association. Additionally, if you submit documents in other languages, certified translations into English or Greek will be required.
Definitely! After Cyprus company registration, your IP-related income qualifies for an 80% tax exemption. Consequently, this results in an effective tax rate of just 2.5% on qualifying intellectual property profits, making Cyprus exceptionally attractive for IP holding structures.
Yes, indeed. Following your Cyprus company registration, you can engage in cryptocurrency activities. However, you'll need to comply with anti-money laundering regulations and may require specific licenses depending on your activities. Additionally, finding banking partners might be more challenging in this sector.
Typically, it's quite quick. Once you complete Cyprus company registration, you have 60 days to register with the Tax Department. Subsequently, the Tax Identification Number (TIC) is usually issued within 1-2 business days after submitting your application.
In most cases, yes, though it depends on the bank. After Cyprus company registration, many banks now accept video conference meetings for account opening. Nevertheless, some institutions still require at least one in-person visit, so it's best to confirm requirements with your chosen bank beforehand.
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