Business in Cyprus – Your Strategic EU Gateway
Cyprus is a strategic EU hub offering a pro-business environment, competitive tax regime, and access to Europe, Asia, and Africa. With robust infrastructure and innovation-driven sectors, Cyprus is the ideal jurisdiction for entrepreneurs and global companies.
Cyprus offers a robust platform for growth. F.C.I. Ltd is your single point of contact to navigate this opportunity, managing all your corporate, financial, legal, and advisory needs.
Cyprus is a strategic launchpad for startups and entrepreneurs looking to scale in Europe and globally.
With its pro-business environment, innovation-driven sectors, and favorable tax regime, Cyprus offers a compelling case for founders seeking speed, flexibility, and global reach.
- Strategic EU Location: Positioned as a vital bridge connecting Europe, Asia, and Africa.
- Pro-Business Environment: Characterized by transparent regulations and a robust infrastructure that supports seamless operations.
- Key Economic Sectors: While traditional sectors like hotel & tourism, real estate, financial services, and shipping remain strong, Cyprus is also a hub for emerging sectors including technology innovation, energy, startups, and asset management.
Innovation-Friendly Ecosystem
Startups benefit from global connectivity while enjoying the lifestyle and cost advantages of a Mediterranean hub. Cyprus is investing heavily in emerging sectors:
- Technology & digital transformation
- Energy & sustainability
- Education & research
- Film production & creative industries
Government incentives and EU funding support innovation, making Cyprus a fertile ground for startups in AI, blockchain, fintech, and more.
Favourable Tax Regime Cyprus boasts one of the most competitive tax regimes in Europe, making it an ideal jurisdiction for international business.
- 15% Corporate Tax Rate: Among the lowest in the EU.
- Extensive Double Tax Treaties: A network of treaties with over 65 countries ensures tax efficiency for global operations.
- Dividends: Zero tax on dividends received from abroad (subject to conditions).
- Capital Gains: No capital gains tax, except on the disposal of immovable property located in Cyprus.
- Withholding Tax: No withholding tax on dividends, interest, or royalties paid to non-residents.
- No Inheritance Tax and exemptions for non-domiciled residents
Favourable Intellectual Property (IP) Regime: An effective tax rate as low as 2.5% is available for qualifying IP assets.
Tonnage Tax for Shipping: Shipping companies benefit from a competitive tonnage tax regime and are exempt from income tax on profits from qualifying ship operations or management.
(Chart Data: Corporate Tax: 15%, Standard VAT: 19%, IP Regime (eff.): 2.5%, Reduced VAT: 5%)
Flexible Corporate Structures for Every Business Need
Cyprus offers various legal forms to suit different business needs, with the Limited Liability Company (LTD) being the most common structure.
- Limited Liability Company (LTD): Members’ liability is limited to the nominal value of their issued share capital. Key highlights include:
- Shareholders: Minimum of one shareholder (individual or legal entity).
- Directors: At least one director is required; local directors are necessary to establish tax residency.
- Secretary: A company secretary is mandatory.
- Registered Office: A physical registered office in Cyprus is required.
Other Forms: Apart from the LTD, other structures include Sole Proprietorships, General & Limited Partnerships, Public Companies (Plc), Branches of Foreign Companies, and International Trusts
- Incorporation Process: Quick and simple steps with F.C.I. LTD handling all filings.
- Key Requirements:
- Minimum capital: €1
- At least one shareholder and one director
- Local director for tax residency
- Registered office in Cyprus
- Company Secretary
- Annual Obligations: Annual General Meetings (AGM), audited financial statements (IFRS), tax filings, VAT & VIES reporting, annual return.
Our 50-year history is built on providing long-term, comprehensive support. As your single point of contact, we ensure your business runs smoothly and efficiently.
- Full Fiduciary, Corporate, and Advisory Solutions
- Tax Planning and Compliance
- Accounting, VAT, and Payroll
- Administrative and Secretarial Support
- Asset Protection & Succession Planning via Trusts and Holding Companies
Explore our full suite of Corporate & Advisory Services to see how we support your enduring success.
Our longevity is built on versatility. Over the last 50 years, we have successfully supported clients through vast economic shifts, gaining deep operational knowledge in:
- International Trade & Shipping: Navigating cross-border logistics and corporate structuring.
- Real Estate & Construction: Advising on major developments and asset acquisition.
- Financial Services & Fintech: Ensuring compliance for investment firms and emerging tech.
- Family Wealth: Preserving legacy through prudent fiduciary planning.
For 50 years, F.C.I. LTD has empowered businesses and individuals with integrated corporate, fiduciary, and advisory solutions across Cyprus, Greece, and beyond.
Discover how our global reach and decades of experience can help you achieve sustainable success.