Open a Branch in Cyprus

The branch office is one of the business forms available for foreign companies interested in setting up a presence in Cyprus. Our company formation agents in Cyprus can help the representatives of foreign companies register a branch office in Cyprus if they are interested in this business form.

Who can set up branches in Cyprus?

The branch office can be created solely by other corporate entities, and it is not meant for entrepreneurs interested in starting a new company in Cyprus. The branch office can be created by other Cypriot companies, but also by foreign companies seeking to expand into the Cypriot market.

What is a branch office, and what are some of its main features?

If defined, the branch office is an extension of a company that operates under its umbrella. This means that it must bear the name of the parent company and must complete the same activities.

The branch office is suitable for well-regulated activities, such as financial ones, as they must comply with similar regulations when it comes to EU-based companies that need to enter other EU markets.

We also invite you to watch our video on how to open a branch in Cyprus:

What are the steps to register a branch office in Cyprus?

Here is what the branch office registration procedure in Cyprus in 2026 entails:

1. business name reservation with the Companies Registrar in Cyprus;
2. translation and notarization of the foreign company’s documents;
3. documents filing with the Register;
4. tax and VAT registration;
5. Social Security Contribution registration.

What are the documents required to open a branch office in Cyprus?

The representative will need to submit an application together with the following documents:

• the translated and notarized Memorandum and Articles of Association of the parent company;
• the names of the company’s directors and shareholders and information about the Cypriot representative who will be the contact point between the branch office and the Trade Register;
• a Certificate of Registration of the parent company, issued by the relevant institution of its country;
• the latest financial statements and balance sheet of the parent company;
• several forms issued by the Companies Register which must be duly filled in.

What are the documents to be filed by the parent company in Cyprus?

In the case of foreign companies setting up branches here, these must submit their Certificate or Registration and the Articles of Association (and Memorandum, where available) in original and in copies with the Cyprus Trade Registrar. All the documents must be filed in Greek; therefore, notarized translated copies of the original papers must be prepared.

What are some important things to know when opening a branch in Cyprus?

The branch office must bear the same name as the parent company, given the fact that it is an extension of it. However, it is important to note that even in this case, the trading name verification and registration procedures must still be completed.

Representatives of foreign companies interested in the requirements for opening a Cypriot branch in 2026 can rely on the expertise of our agents, as you can see in the infographic below:

Is a Cypriot branch required to have a local representative?

Yes, the parent company is required to appoint at least one resident representative who will be the liaison with the local authorities. His/her details must be submitted to the Companies Registrar.

Is it necessary for a branch office to have a local address in Cyprus?

Yes, in fact, the law is very strict about this requirement, as it implies having a physical address, and not only a postal office box. The address can also be obtained through a virtual office in Cyprus, which can be supplied by our local specialists.

What are the documents issued by the Companies Register after incorporating a branch in Cyprus?

After registration, the branch will receive:

• a copy of the Formation Contract;
• a copy of the Registration Certificate;
• the Certificates of Members, Directors, and Secretary;
• the Registered Address Certificate.

Please note that specific fees must be paid based on the certificates to be obtained. They start at EUR 120.

Are there any other post-registration procedures to comply with when setting up a branch office in Cyprus?

The main recommendation is to register the branch office’s name with the Intellectual Property Office as a trademark for protection.

How long does it take to register a branch office in Cyprus?

The registration procedure takes between 5 and 10 working days after submitting the documents. The procedure of opening a branch in Cyprus in 2026 is not complicated, and it can be completed through a simple visit or remotely with the help of our consultants.

Can I hire foreign employees in a Cypriot branch?

Yes, it is possible for the parent company to deploy employees from its head office abroad or even hire personnel from other countries. However, it must pay attention to the visa and work permit requirements if such employees come from non-EU countries.

Is it possible to open more than one branch in Cyprus?

Yes, a foreign company can operate through more than one branch in Cyprus. For each branch, registration in the city it will operate is necessary.

What are some advantages of a Cypriot branch office?

Many foreign companies decide to operate through branches in Cyprus because:

• they can have full control over the actions and decisions in the branch office;
• the requirements for setting up a branch office are simpler than those for setting up a local company;
• under Cyprus’ double tax treaties, foreign companies can deduct various taxes related to their branch offices in this country;
• foreign companies can acquire immovable properties through their Cypriot branch offices;
• from a taxation point of view, branches have several advantages over local companies;
• if the management of the branch is not located in Cyprus, the profits earned by the branch are still taxable in Cyprus as income of a permanent establishment (15% from 2026);
• the dividends received by the parent company can be exempt from the Special Defense Contribution under certain circumstances.

They can also help you if you want to set up a branch in another country, such as Saudi Arabia, through our local partners. In Saudi Arabia the timeframe for incorporation is 7 months compared to Cyprus, where it is 1 week.

Whenever you need assistance with opening a branch office in other European countries, for example, extending your company in Switzerland, please contact our partners in this country, and they will provide you with specialized legal advice and personalized consultancy.

Our company formation agents can also help you set up a Dutch branch in 4 weeks, compared to one week in Cyprus.

Please contact our Cypriot company formation specialists for more information on the branch office registration procedure.