Residence Cyprus
The Complete Guide for Your Permanent Residence Permit
Are you ready to relocate from your current home to beautiful, sunny Cyprus? Whether you’re looking for a home or a business address, the island offers an ideal climate with plenty of sunshine and a relaxed lifestyle for individuals and families. However, settling into this new environment differs from what we know from Germany. However, with the right preparation and an insight into the local regulations, immigrating to Cyprus works smoothly for entrepreneurs, retirees, and others. BS-Holding is familiar with all the local aspects and provides an overview in our website. Important factors in the context of emigration are, for example
- The re-registration of electricity
- Understanding the 60-day rule and the 183-day rule
- Applying for work permits and non-dom status
- The formation of a Cyprus Ltd.
- Arranging a free initial consultation with Cyprus experts
In this guide, we show you how to overcome challenges such as applying for non-dom status so that you can successfully immigrate to Cyprus and enjoy a better quality of life!
The Key to Everything: Cyprus Permanent Residency
Residency is one of the most fundamental concepts when living in a new country. In the Republic of Cyprus, a member of the European Union, it is also the starting point for many important aspects. You should pay attention to these if you want to relocate to Cyprus. These are the reasons why you need it:
- Rental agreement or real estate purchase: to establish a permanent residence in Cyprus as a natural person, you have two options: Either sign a rental contract of at least twelve months or buy a property. This gives you a permanent residence and allows you to save on taxes abroad.
- Re-register electricity and utility bills: There is no registration system in Cyprus. Therefore, the address of private individuals is not automatically registered when you move. Instead, a utility bill is accepted as proof of your residential address. To receive this, you will need to re-register the electricity in your name. This step is essential and should be done immediately after your move.
- Residence for setting up a company such as a Cyprus Limited: If you plan to set up a company such as a Cyprus Ltd, a permanent residence is also a basic requirement. This proof is necessary to have the company entered into the company register. Without a permanent residence, you cannot complete the Cyprus Limited company formation process and benefit from the tax system abroad. You only pay 12.5 % corporation tax.
- Obtaining a tax number and being able to work as a natural person: Your residence in Cyprus is also crucial for obtaining a tax number. You will need this to declare taxable income and pay taxes. It is also decisive for your ability to work. Without a permanent residence, you will not receive a work permit.
- Applying for non-dom status: If you apply for non-dom status, you can transfer your tax residence to the island. As a non-dom, however, you must spend at least 60 days in Cyprus.
The 60 and 183-Day Rule: When Can You Register Your Residence?
If you are planning a move to Cyprus, you will quickly realize that there are many regulations that you need to observe. In particular, the 60 and 183-day rules are important, as they play a major role in determining your residency in Cyprus and the resulting tax liability. We will go into these in detail below and give you some useful tips.
Would you like to be a tax resident in the Republic of Cyprus? you need to stay for 61+ days or 183+ days a year and live on the island. If so, you could be considered a tax resident or non-dom thanks to the 60-day rule. In this case, you must pay tax on your worldwide income in Cyprus. However, it is important to note that not all types of income are taxable as an employee or employer. For example, if you earn income from renting or receive your pension from abroad pension insurance, it is possible that this income will not be taxable. However, it is advisable to seek advice from a tax consultant. This will ensure that you meet all legal requirements. You also don’t have to worry about excessive costs. Our Cyprus prices are transparent. Consider that you should stay way longer than 60 days in the beginning. Otherwise, your residence in Cyprus may be considered temporary.
If you live in Cyprus for more than half the days in a year – i.e. more than 183 days – you are normally considered a tax resident of the country, even if you have a domicile in another country. In this case, you must pay tax on your worldwide income in Cyprus. As Cyprus has negotiated many double taxation agreements with countries such as Germany, you avoid double taxation when living on the Mediterranean island.
How to Determine Residency in Cyprus
Determining residency in Cyprus is not always straightforward. Many different factors play an important role. For example, where the center of your life is located, how regularly you are in the Republic of Cyprus, and how long you stay. The family situation and other factors also influence the determination. Other aspects that should be considered are the type of employment or business activity in Cyprus, the presence of real estate or assets in the country, and integration into the local community. To ensure that all legal requirements are met, and no unexpected tax consequences arise, it is advisable to seek expert advice from an experienced tax advisor.
A qualified expert can assess individual circumstances, consider all relevant factors, and make an informed recommendation on Cyprus residency. In addition to tax factors, nationality is another important point that should not be underestimated. It can impact both residency and work permit options, access to social benefits, and other legal aspects. Therefore, in the worst-case scenario, you may have to pay taxes as a non-dom emigrant in the country of your citizenship, as your main residence is there – let us advise you so that this does not happen! We know everything about the Cyprus Permanent Residence Program.
About me
I am an expert in relocation services to Cyprus. I provide comprehensive support for individuals and businesses looking to move to this Mediterranean paradise. My services include:
Consultation and Planning: I offer tailored advice on the legal, financial, and logistical aspects of relocating to Cyprus. This includes understanding residency requirements, tax benefits, and local regulations.
Property Search: I assist you in order to find the perfect home or office space, whether for purchase or rent. At the same time, I ensure that it meets your needs and preferences.
Administrative Assistance: I handle the paperwork and bureaucratic processes involved in obtaining visas, work permits, and registrations.
Settling-In Services: I help you with the setup of utilities, banking, healthcare, and schooling to ensure a smooth transition into Cypriot life.
Ongoing Support: I provide continuous assistance even after the move. This service includes the integration into the local community and addressing any issues that may arise.
As an expert, I ensure a stress-free relocation experience. That allows you to enjoy the benefits of living and working in Cyprus without the usual hassles.
Step-By-Step Instructions From the Experts: How to Immigrate to Cyprus Successfully With a Minimum Investment
Now it’s time to get down to business! As with any major life change, the success of your move depends largely on your prior planning. That’s why we experts have put together this step-by-step guide. Find out everything you need to know to prepare for a successful move abroad!
If you have any difficulties, you can contact us at any time.
If you plan to immigrate to Cyprus, finding suitable accommodation will be at the top of your to-do list. Whether you choose to rent an apartment or buy a house depends on your individual needs and financial means. However, you do not need a bank account in Cyprus. If you need help with the search and formalities, we will be happy to assist you so that you are prepared for all eventualities. In our Cyprus price list, you can see how much our services cost even before your free initial consultation. You can look forward to a perfect price-performance ratio! We offer support to find the perfect property that meets all your needs.
With our knowledge and relationships with key real estate partners, we can make the process easier for you. Contact us today to start your search for your dream property in Cyprus!
Once you have found new accommodation in Cyprus, it is important to remember to re-register your electricity. You can do this with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC/AHK), the country’s only electricity supplier. To carry out the re-registration, you will need either the title deeds if you are the owner or the rental contract if you are renting. Please note: there is no registration system in Cyprus, so your new residential address will not be registered automatically. Instead, a utility bill serves as proof. To receive such a bill, you must always register the electricity in your name. Only by registering will you later receive a Yellowslip and non-dom status at your Cyprus residence. (Status: 2024)
Don’t forget to take this important step as soon as possible after your move.
Applying for a yellow slip is the next important step for EU citizens in Cyprus. This is a permanent residence permit. This ensures that you are legally allowed to stay in Cyprus and enjoy all the benefits of legal residence. With the Yellow Slip, you will receive your ARC number, which offers numerous benefits. These include access to key public services such as:
- Healthcare
- A tax number
- Non-dom status
You must apply for it as soon as possible to avoid any delays or problems during your stay in Cyprus. The Yellow Slip allows you to secure your residency situation in Cyprus. You will receive all the necessary documents and rights as an EU citizen. Therefore, plan your application and prepare all documents for the civil registry and migration department. This will make the process as smooth as possible. In this way, as an emigrant, you will usually also have access to the healthcare system or public health insurance on the island as an EU citizen. This is considered to be very good. Don’t forget: You need an annual income to be a permanent resident.
Without a secured annual income, foreign nationals cannot obtain the Yellow or Pink Slip.
Once you have received your Yellow Slip, you can apply for non-dom status in the Registry and Migration Department in Cyprus. This gives you considerable tax advantages for 17 years. The two important laws, the 183-day and the 60-day rules, allow you to benefit from these aspects. If you spend a minimum number of days in Cyprus each year, you can save money with this tax residency. In addition, non-dom status means you are exempt from the Special Defense Contribution(SDC). This tax rate is normally levied on local rental income, cryptocurrencies, dividends, and interest income.
With a non-dom status, you can enjoy Cyprus‘ beautiful scenery and growing economy while not worrying about high tax rates. As a tax domicile, moving to the island is worthwhile. Compared to Germany, companies with this status pay much less tax. Feel free to contact us so that problems when immigrating to another EU country are no longer an issue. We will explain the requirements and address issues such as non-dom status, minimum residency, and applicable income tax.
Incorporate a Cyprus Ltd. in Cyprus
Cyprus is finally your domicile when you obtain permanent residence. If you are an entrepreneur or trader who wants to operate and invest in Cyprus, setting up a Cyprus Ltd. is the final step. Are you wondering why this form of company is the best? Simply put, it is the cheapest and most tax-advantageous option you will find in Cyprus. For example, if you incorporate a Cyprus Ltd. as an offshore company, you will benefit from lower tax rates, low cost of living, and lower operating costs. This way, you do not have to pay high taxes in Germany on your income as an entrepreneur. In addition, this type of company opens the doors to a wide range of business opportunities.
Thanks to relocation, your Cyprus Limited structure will allow you to work in an emerging economy where you will have no problem finding employees. However, always remember the 60-day rule when immigrating to Cyprus so you can benefit to the maximum. Do you have any further questions about tax exemption? Feel free to contact us by e-mail, contact form, or telephone! From Paphos, we can provide you with information on tax law and more. Find out whether Cyprus is tax-free for you!
By the way: The country is also ideal for setting up an offshore company. However, like other countries, this EU country complies with the international OECD-CRS standard. There is therefore a procedure for the exchange of information between countries.
Cyprus Citizenship: A Choice for Permanent Residents
After Cyprus grants permanent residence, individuals can pursue citizenship through various pathways, including naturalization, which typically requires a minimum residency period and demonstration of genuine ties to the country. Another option is through marriage to a Cypriot citizen, which facilitates a more expedited process. Additionally, under specific investment programs, substantial contributions to the Cypriot economy can pave the way to citizenship. These routes provide enhanced personal and economic security and grant access to the broader benefits of EU membership, including freedom of movement, employment, and education across member states. Contact us if you want to know more about it.
Getting Help With Emigration to Cyprus
Please note that the claim “Cyprus – living tax-free in a tax haven in Europe” is false. Taxes are also payable on the Mediterranean island. However, these may be considerably lower than in Germany when you have a permanent residency permit. In particular, the rule that you receive special concessions after only 60 days per year is not so easy to fulfill. You should therefore always contact an expert in advance. We can answer the question: “Does Cyprus offer the tax benefits I’m looking for?” in no time. After that, you may finally be able to relax and live on the Mediterranean island.