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Cyprus: Living There - Tax Issues

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Last Updated: Oct 02, 2007

Living There

INCOME TAX

Residents in Cyprus are taxed on their worldwide income. Foreign individuals become residents in Cyprus if they stay in the country for a period or periods exceeding a total of 183 days in a tax year.

Residents are taxed on almost all kinds of income, and taxable income is generally an aggregate of all income, less deductions and exemptions.

Deductions

Taxpayers are entitled to the following general deductions:

  • Donations made to approved charities
  • Social Insurance Fund contributions and similar contributions paid abroad
  • Life insurance premiums and pension plans and medical funds contributions

A specific limit for life insurance of 7% of the insured capital sum and an overall limit of one-sixth of taxable income is set for the general deductions.

Rental Income Tax

Rental income is taxed in Cyprus at the normal rate, with specific deductions. Taxable rental income is computed as gross rental income less related expenses and a 20% exemption.

Special Contribution for Defence

The rate for the Special Contribution for the Defence depends on which type of income it is being imposed on. For rental income, 25% of the gross rental income is deducted first before the 3% rate is applied.

CAPITAL GAINS TAX

Gains from the sale of properties are subject to 20% Capital Gains Tax. The taxable gain is usually computed as the gross selling price less acquisition costs and improvement costs. For a private residence that was occupied by the owner for at least five years, there is a cumulative life-time exemption of CYP50,000(€85,764).

VALUE ADDED TAX

Individuals buying property for the first time will be charged a reduced rate of 5% value added tax. For subsequent purchases, the standard 15% rate will be charged. VAT is imposed on the gross selling price of the property.

 

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