Opinion: The Misalignment of Trump’s “Gold Card” with Global Investor Realities

As an established global expert in the field of residency and citizenship by investment, I’ve observed countless initiatives aimed at attracting high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs). Recently, President Trump announced a new “Gold Card” program, offering permanent U.S. residency for a hefty price tag of $5 million. This proposal, in my view, is considerably out of touch […]

Cyprus Tax Reform Proposals: Corporate Tax to 15%, Dividend Tax Cut to 5% – But Not Law Yet

On February 26, 2025, President Nikos Christodoulides announced a set of proposed tax reforms that could significantly impact businesses and individuals in Cyprus. However, it is important to emphasize that these changes have not yet been enacted into law and are still subject to review, consultation, and possible amendments. Key Proposed Changes These Changes Are […]

Misconceptions About When Cyprus Exit Taxes Apply – What You Need to Know

Background: When and Why Were Cyprus Exit Taxes Introduced Exit taxation rules were introduced in Cyprus on 31 December 2019 through Law N. 116(I)/2019, aligning with the EU Anti-Tax Avoidance Directive (ATAD I & II). These rules were designed to prevent companies from transferring assets outside Cyprus to avoid taxation, ensuring that Cyprus retains the […]

VAT in Cyprus on Purchases of Services from Outside Cyprus & Reverse Charge Principal

The VAT treatment of services purchased from outside Cyprus is an essential consideration for businesses and individuals operating in Cyprus. Understanding how VAT applies to cross-border services can help ensure compliance and avoid unexpected tax liabilities. General VAT Principles for Cross-Border Services In Cyprus, VAT is governed by the Value Added Tax Law (VAT Law […]

VAT in Cyprus: The One Stop Shop (OSS) Scheme for Cross-Border Sales

Introduction to the One Stop Shop (OSS) Scheme The One Stop Shop (OSS) scheme is a VAT simplification mechanism introduced by the European Union (EU) to streamline VAT compliance for businesses engaged in cross-border sales of goods and services to consumers within the EU. For Cyprus-based companies selling to EU consumers, the OSS scheme offers […]

Understanding VAT Exempt Activities in Cyprus

Introduction to VAT Exemptions in Cyprus The Cyprus VAT system, governed by the Value Added Tax Law (N.95(I)/2000), imposes VAT on most goods and services at standard and reduced rates. However, certain activities are VAT-exempt, meaning they do not attract VAT, and businesses engaged in these activities cannot claim input VAT on related expenses. What […]

VAT Implications for Cyprus Companies Trading in Financial Instruments

Introduction Trading in financial instruments in Cyprus presents specific VAT considerations that companies must navigate. While financial transactions involving stocks, bonds, and derivatives are generally exempt from VAT, there are circumstances where companies trading in financial instruments must register for VAT, particularly when buying services from abroad or engaging in mixed trading activities. When Must […]

Why Family Offices Are Increasingly Choosing Cyprus as Their Base

In recent years, Cyprus has emerged as a highly favourable jurisdiction for family offices seeking a secure, tax-efficient, and flexible environment for managing and preserving family wealth. Family offices worldwide are increasingly establishing a presence in Cyprus due to its unique combination of advantageous tax incentives, robust legal frameworks, and privacy protections. Key Advantages for […]

Why More Businesses Are Choosing Cyprus for Company Incorporation

In recent years, Cyprus has emerged as a leading jurisdiction for company incorporation, offering a unique blend of business-friendly policies, a competitive tax regime, and strategic access to European and international markets. In 2024, the appeal of incorporating a company in Cyprus was stronger than ever, thanks to recent regulatory improvements, enhanced compliance standards, and […]

Cyprus Substance Requirements: What Businesses Need to Know

In response to international scrutiny and increasing compliance requirements, Cyprus has implemented rigorous economic substance rules to maintain its status as a reputable jurisdiction. Companies incorporated in Cyprus must demonstrate genuine economic presence and business activity within the country to benefit from its favourable tax regime. Key Aspects of Cyprus Substance Requirements Risks of Non-Compliance […]