Cyprus has established itself as an ideal destination for living and a favourable jurisdiction to do business.
This has been a long journey for Cyprus that all the governmental authorities and sectors of the economy supported collectively, intending to enhance the business environment further.
Why is Cyprus an ideal destination for international investments?
A destination of choice for many investors!
Some of the main reasons are:
Cyprus is situated at the crossroad of 3 continents Europe, Asia and Africa, at the core of the busiest air and shipping routes towards all major business hubs, including Europe, the Middle East, India and China.
Since May 1, 2004, Cyprus has been a member of the European Union, and on January 1, 2008, it joined the eurozone (official euro currency).
Cyprus EU membership has provided numerous strategic advantages to investors, i.e. stability and security, including the opportunity to access a market of more than 500 million European citizens, with a free movement of capital, goods and services.
Cyprus has one of Europe's most advantageous tax systems, which fully complies with EU, OECD, international laws and regulations.
- 12.5% corporate income tax rate (amongst the lowest in the EU)
- Competitive annual corporate levy
- New residents and non-domiciled individuals are eligible for personal tax exemptions.
- Exemption to dividend participation and disposal of securities, i.e. shares, bonds etc.)
- No succession taxes
- No withholding taxes on interests, dividends, or royalties payments abroad
- Capital Gains tax only on the company's shares holding real estate or disposal of real estate)
- EU – approved Tonnage Tax System (TTS)
- 65+ double taxation treaties
- Overseas investors can own property under favourable terms
- Company losses can be carried forward averse upcoming profits for an indefinite time. (subject to conditions)
Cyprus's comprehensive regulatory framework follows the English common law principles that are generally characterized for efficiency, reliability, business-friendliness and effectiveness, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness in business procedures.
Cyprus' legal system complies fully with EU, FATF, OECD, FATCA, Financial Stability Forum legislation and regulations, as well as EU anti-money laundering guidelines (AML).
Cyprus has the highest per capita percentage of university graduates in Europe.
According to Eurostat, Cyprus ranks first among the EU member states, percentage-wise in higher education qualification in the range of 25 – 64 years old.
More than 80% of the population is multilingual. Greek and English are the most frequently spoken languages, while a significant percentage of the population speaks Russian as well.
The professional service sector in Cyprus is robust and includes significant international players (audit, tax, consulting, legal, corporate and fiduciary firms) that manage overseas clients and investors.
- Cyprus is amongst the 5th safest country in the world
- Has an excellent infrastructure and transportation structure
- It has developed financial, educational and medical sectors
- Cypriot hospitality is renowned worldwide
- Residents in Cyprus enjoy a high quality of life since the island country offers different lifestyles, i.e. vibrant, relaxed, family-oriented lifestyle, etc.
- The environment is healthy and clean, with sunshine most days and mild winters.
- Cyprus combines art and cultures, delightful cuisines from around the world, led by Mediterranean cuisine.
- The main sectors of the Cyprus economy are Tourism, Shipping, Real Estate, Banking and Financial Services, Professional Services, Investment Funds, Education and Energy.
If you would like to discuss in more detail your investment strategy and what Cyprus has to offer, our team will be pleased to set up a personal appointment with you.