Property Ownership

In comparison to many other countries, the process for a foreigner purchasing property or land in Cyprus is very simple and straightforward.

Non-Europeans are entitled to freehold ownership of a villa, apartment or a plot of land, with the maximum allowance to extend to 4014m2 (four thousand and fourteen square metres). European citizens are entitled to unlimited ownership of freehold properties. With regard to land plots, Europeans can purchase as many plots as they want and there are no restrictions on the allowance to extend. This was one of the beneficial changes which took place when Cyprus became a member of the European Union.

Foreign companies can acquire premises for their business or for holiday homes for their directors and employees.

Europeans who acquire permanent or temporary residency permits can register as many properties as they want in their name, provided that they sign a confirmation to the Cyprus Government stating that they will stay in Cyprus for the following five years.

Cyprus Property Title Deeds

Cyprus maintains a land registry system in which all immovable property is registered. "Immovable Property" is a term that relates to land, buildings, trees, plantations, rivers, wells and all rights relating to land and buildings.

Cyprus Property Title Deeds, which are also known as "Certificates of Registration of Immovable Property", are formal documents that serve as evidence of property ownership. Each piece of immovable property has an associated Titled Deed which contains information such as its registered owner, size, location and the Lands' Office reference.

"Transfer of Ownership" from the Vendor to the Purchaser is undertaken by a simple procedure through the Cyprus Land Registry Office, either by the buyer in person or by appointing a third party with power of attorney. The Transfer of Ownership requires a permit from the Council of Ministers.