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
- Choose Company Type: Decide between Ltd or PLC.
- Company Name Reservation: Submit proposed name to the Cyprus Registrar of Companies.
- Draft Memorandum & Articles of Association: Define shareholders, directors, and objectives.
- Submit Incorporation Documents: Register with the Registrar of Companies.
- Obtain Tax Identification Number (TIN): Mandatory for corporate tax compliance.
- Register for VAT (if applicable): Required for companies exceeding turnover thresholds or offering cross-border services.
- Open Corporate Bank Account: Local or international options available.
- 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.
