A new amendment to the current tax residency rules of individuals in Cyprus, has been recently proposed (although not as yet passed nor published in the official gazette of the Republic of Cyprus), by the Finance Committee and is expected to be enforced on 1 January 2018.  

One of the main proposals is the 183 day rule revision, which has been proposed to further enhance the Cyprus economy, and incentivize foreign nationals to gain Cyprus tax residency status. The individual by simply staying on the island for a period of 60 days, subject to the following three criteria which must be met cumulatively, shall be considered a Cyprus tax resident, if such individual; 

a. Remains in Cyprus for at least sixty (60) days of the assessment year;

b. Conducts business in Cyprus and/or is employed in Cyprus and/or holds an office to a person resident in Cyprus at any time during the year of assessment;
c. Maintains a permanent residence in Cyprus, owned or rented by such individual.

This will mean that a foreign national who is not a tax resident in any other state within the year of assessment, and who has not remained in any other states for a period exceeding 183 days in total, will be deemed a Cyprus tax resident.

A Cyprus tax resident is currently taxed on their worldwide income under Cyprus tax.  The income tax rates in Cyprus are as follows:

Non domiciled individuals who are Cyprus tax residents, will be exempt from special defense contribution levied on taxation for personal investment income (dividends, interest, and rents). 

Our team of highly experienced professionals can assist you with obtaining Cyprus tax residency and non-domicile individual status, and offer you guidance and support with the whole process. For further information please contact Mr. Charles Savva on c.savva@savvacyprus.com.