Introduction

Cyprus has become one of the most popular destinations for businesses and individuals looking for a European base. With its tax friendly environment, strategic location and simplified immigration procedures Cyprus offers many opportunities for international entrepreneurs.

One of the easiest ways to get residency in Cyprus is by forming a Company of Foreign Interests (CFI). This way non-EU nationals can set up a business, employ skilled staff and get residence permits for themselves and their families. CFIs are designed to attract foreign investment and talent, benefits for businesses and individuals alike.

In this article we will explain the process of forming a CFI, registering with the Business Facilitation Unit (BFU) and applying for residence and employment permits. We will also see why Cyprus is the best place for your business.

Why Company of Foreign Interests in Cyprus?

Choosing Cyprus as your business base brings many advantages. By forming a CFI you get a business friendly environment, simplified immigration procedures and one of the lowest tax rates in Europe. Let’s see the details.

1. Employment of Third-Country Nationals

CFIs provide a simple framework to employ non EU nationals who would otherwise be restricted by labor market rules.

• Flexible Hiring: CFIs allow the employment of highly skilled professionals, technical staff and support level employees from third countries.
• No Labor Market Testing: For key personnel there is no need to prove that no local candidate is available.

2. Tax Benefits

Cyprus has one of the best tax regimes in Europe:

• Corporate Tax Rate: 12.5% one of the lowest in the EU. For IP focused businesses the effective corporate tax rate on qualifying profits can be as low as 2.5% making Cyprus the ideal place for innovation driven companies.
• Dividend Benefits: No withholding tax on dividends for non-domiciled residents.
• Capital Gains Exemption: Exemption from capital gains tax on the sale of shares held outside Cyprus.
• Double Taxation Treaties: Access to over 65 treaties to avoid double taxation on international income.

3. Residency

• Fast Track Applications: Residence permits for directors, employees and their family members.
• Path to Permanent Residency and Citizenship: Eligible for permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 7 years of residency.

4. Strategic EU Location

Located at the crossroads of Europe, Middle East and Africa Cyprus is the gateway to the world.

5. Business Friendly Framework

Cyprus is famous for its business friendly environment and simplified procedures:

• Business Facilitation Unit (BFU): One stop shop for company registration, employment permits and compliance.
• Business Easy: Simple procedures to set up and run a business.

To learn more about the corporate tax advantages of establishing a Cyprus Company, click here.

Step 1: Register a Company in Cyprus

The first step to form a CFI is to register a company in Cyprus. This process takes 7-10 working days and is the foundation to access the benefits of a CFI. Cyprus has a solid legal framework, political stability and access to a wide range of business services.

Steps to Register a Company

Choose a Company Name

• Submit the name to the Registrar of Companies for approval.
• Check if the name is compliant and unique.

Collect the Documents

• Memorandum and Articles of Association: Describe the purpose and structure of the company.
• Shareholder and Director Information: Include details of all shareholders and directors.
• Registered Office Address: Get a physical office address in Cyprus for correspondence.

Submit the Application

• File the documents with the Cyprus Registrar of Companies.
• Pay the registration fees. Upon approval the company will receive the Certificate of Incorporation.

To learn more about the procedure and requirements for setting up a Cyprus Company, click here.

Step 2: Business Facilitation Unit (BFU)

The Business Facilitation Unit (BFU) simplifies the CFI process by being the one stop shop for applications and compliance. BFU registration ensures that CFIs meet the specific criteria to enjoy the benefits.

Eligibility Criteria

Ownership:

• Majority of the shares must be held by non-EU nationals.
• If foreign ownership is 50% or less the shareholding must be at least €200,000.

Initial Investment:

• Minimum investment of €200,000 either as a deposit in a Cypriot bank account or business related expenses (e.g. office space or equipment).

Independent Office

• The company must have an independent office in Cyprus not residential or shared space.

Types of Eligible Companies

• High-tech and innovative companies.
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology firms.
• Shipping companies.
• Public companies listed on recognized stock exchanges.

Benefits of BFU Registration

• Ability to employ third country nationals without the traditional restrictions.
• Fast track processing for residence and employment permits.
• Simplified compliance with Cypriot immigration and labor laws.

Step 3: Apply for Residence and Employment Permits

Once the company is registered and BFU certified the next step is to apply for residence and employment permits for directors, employees and their family members.

Employee Categories

Executive Directors and Senior Managers

• Minimum monthly salary: €3,872.
• Directors, general managers, project managers.

Highly Skilled Employees

• Minimum monthly salary: €2,500.
• IT specialists, engineers, other key personnel.

Support Staff

• Monthly salary: Below €2,500.
• Labor market testing required to prove no Cypriot or EU candidates are available.

Documents Required

• Passport and visa.
• Employment contract (minimum 2 years).
• Qualifications or professional experience.
• Medical certificates (HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis B/C, TB).
• Proof of accommodation.
• Comprehensive health insurance or GHS registration.

Processing Time and Validity

• Applications are processed within 1 month if all documents are correct and complete.
• Permits are valid for 3 years and can be renewed.

Family Reunification

CFI employees can bring their families to Cyprus under family reunification laws:

• Spouses and Children: Get residence permits to join the main permit holder.
• Spousal Employment: Spouses earning €2,500 or more per month have unrestricted access to the labor market.

Conclusion

Setting up a Company of Foreign Interests (CFI) in Cyprus is a strategic move for businesses and individuals seeking residency and a favorable business environment. With its low taxes, streamlined procedures, and ability to employ third-country nationals, Cyprus is a leading choice in Europe.

Whether your goal is to expand globally, optimize taxes, or secure a better future for your family, Cyprus is the place. At Polycarpos Philippou & Associates LLC, we are here to simplify the process and guide you every step of the way. Contact us today!