Company Formation in Cyprus

Secure Your Cyprus Company and Expand Internationally

Forming a company in Cyprus in 2026 is an ideal choice for international entrepreneurs, fintech startups, holding structures, and digital businesses. Cyprus combines a business-friendly regulatory environment, strategic EU location, competitive corporate taxation, and efficient company registration procedures, making it a preferred jurisdiction for both regional and global operations.

A Cyprus company provides the following benefits:

  • Legal operation in the EU: Full compliance with EU regulations.
  • Banking access: Domestic and international multi-currency accounts.
  • Tax efficiency: Low corporate tax rate at 12.5% and extensive double tax treaties.
  • Asset protection: Confidential corporate structures and corporate privacy.
  • Investment readiness: Structuring your company for fundraising and international expansion.

Why Choose Cyprus for Company Formation?

Cyprus is highly regarded as a transparent and stable jurisdiction with numerous advantages for foreign investors:

  • EU Membership: Access to EU markets and regulatory frameworks.
  • Corporate Tax Efficiency: 12.5% corporate tax, extensive double tax treaties, favorable holding structures.
  • Fast Incorporation: Standard registration process completed in 7–10 business days.
  • International Banking: Reliable access to both local and international banks.
  • Corporate Flexibility: Suitable for holding companies, operational entities, and fintech ventures.

Types of Companies in Cyprus

Private Limited Company (Ltd)

  • Most common form for international business.
  • Requires 1–50 shareholders.
  • Limited liability protects shareholders.
  • Flexible share capital (minimum €1 per share).

Public Limited Company (PLC)

  • Suitable for large enterprises or publicly traded companies.
  • Minimum 7 shareholders.
  • Minimum share capital: €25,629.
  • Subject to stricter reporting and compliance requirements.

Step-by-Step Cyprus Company Formation

  1. Choose Company Type: Decide between Ltd or PLC.
  2. Company Name Reservation: Submit proposed name to the Cyprus Registrar of Companies.
  3. Draft Memorandum & Articles of Association: Define shareholders, directors, and objectives.
  4. Submit Incorporation Documents: Register with the Registrar of Companies.
  5. Obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN): Mandatory for corporate tax compliance.
  6. Register for VAT (if applicable): Required for companies exceeding turnover thresholds or offering cross-border services.
  7. Open Corporate Bank Account: Local or international options available.
  8. Obtain Additional Licenses (if regulated): Fintech, gambling, or investment activities may require extra licensing.

Key Requirements

  • Directors & Shareholders: Minimum 1 director and 1 shareholder for Ltd; PLC requires at least 7.
  • Registered Office: Local address mandatory.
  • Company Secretary: Required for statutory compliance.
  • Share Capital: Minimum €1 per share for Ltd; PLC has higher minimum.
  • Compliance: Adherence to AML/CFT and corporate governance standards.

Costs, Timeline & Documentation

Estimated Costs:

  • Company formation: €1,500–€3,000
  • Corporate bank account: €500–€1,500
  • Registered office & company secretary: €300–€600 annually

Timeline:

  • Incorporation: 7–10 business days
  • Bank account opening: 2–4 weeks
  • VAT registration (if required): 2–3 weeks

Core Documentation:

  • Memorandum & Articles of Association
  • Director and shareholder information
  • Proof of address for all parties
  • Bank account application documents
  • Business plan (for regulated activities)

Who Should Register a Company in Cyprus?

  • Entrepreneurs targeting EU markets
  • Fintech startups, payment service providers, and neobanks
  • Holding companies for international tax planning
  • Digital and e-commerce businesses seeking EU operations
  • Investors looking for corporate credibility and flexible structures

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. How long does it take to register a company in Cyprus?

Standard incorporation takes 7–10 business days, with bank account setup adding 2–4 weeks.

2. What are the costs of company formation?

Formation fees range from €1,500–€3,000, with annual registered office and secretary costs €300–€600.

3. Can foreign nationals register a Cyprus company?

Yes, 100% foreign ownership is allowed, with flexible shareholder and director options.

4. Are there tax advantages?

Yes, corporate tax is 12.5%, and Cyprus maintains an extensive network of double tax treaties.

5. Is a local director required?

No, non-resident directors are permitted; however, a local company secretary and registered office are mandatory.

Get Started with Your Cyprus Company

Launching a Cyprus company in 2026 provides EU credibility, operational scalability, and tax efficiency. Our end-to-end services include:

  • Company formation and registration
  • Corporate governance setup
  • Banking integration and account setup
  • VAT and tax registration
  • Ongoing compliance and advisory support

Schedule a consultation today to receive a personalized plan tailored to your business, industry, and target markets.

Register Your Cyprus Company with Full Legal Support