Types of Cypriot Companies

There are several types of companies in Cyprus you can choose from if you want to start a business here. Discover them below and rely on our local consultants for registration services once you decide on the proper structure for you.

What are the types of companies I can choose from as a natural person in Cyprus?

You can establish:

• a private limited liability company by shares;
• a limited liability company by guarantee without share capital;
• a limited liability company by guarantee with a share capital;
• a public limited liability company by shares.

It is also possible to start a business by purchasing a ready-made entity. The shelf company in Cyprus has no signed contracts and no bank account.

NOTE: You can also work as a sole trader in Cyprus.

What are my options if I want to expand the activities of my foreign company in Cyprus?

The following:

• a subsidiary;
• a branch office;
• a representative office.

The subsidiary company will usually be registered as a limited liability company, which will grant it the status of a Cyprus resident company. It is an independent type of company which can undertake other activities than the foreign parent company.

The branch office depends entirely on the parent company, and its activities cannot be different from the foreign business.

The last business form available for foreign companies is the representative office which cannot undertake any commercial activity. This type of structure is limited to completing marketing activities and acting as a contact point between the foreign company and potential clients and business partners in Cyprus.

We also have an infographic on the main types of companies in Cyprus:

Are there any other business forms I can set up in Cyprus?

Yes, you can also set up general and limited partnerships in Cyprus.

What are the main features of partnerships in Cyprus?

A general partnership in Cyprus can be formed by two to twenty individuals. The registration of the partners with the Registrar of Partnerships is mandatory. No capital is required. Partners are fully liable for this partnership to the extent of their private assets.

The difference between a general partnership and a limited partnership is that the latter must have a general partner who is fully liable for the company’s obligations and at least one limited partner who is liable to the extent of his contribution.

What are the main features of private limited liability companies in Cyprus?

These business forms:

• can be registered by at least one shareholder;
• must have a legal/registered address in Cyprus (virtual offices can also be used);
• must have at least one director;
• are registered based on their Articles of Association.

What is the minimum capital of the types of entities available for registration in Cyprus?

Here is what you need to know minim capital-wise when setting up a business in Cyprus:

• sole trader: no minimum capital is imposed;
• partnerships: no minimum capital applies;
• private limited liability company: EUR 1;
• public limited liability company: EUR 25,629 – at least 25% of it must be paid upon registration;
• branch office: no minimum amount is imposed;
• subsidiary: it depends on the legal entity used (you can choose between private and public limited liability companies);
• liaison office: no minimum capital is required.

Our Cyprus company formation experts have prepared a video about the main types of legal entities:

What is the most popular type of company in Cyprus?

The private limited liability company, as it can be used for most activities. It is also used to create shelf companies available for purchase in Cyprus.

For more information about the types of companies that can be established in Cyprus or matters regarding the taxes that must be paid by entrepreneurs, please contact our Cypriot company formation specialists.