On October the 27th, 2026, following a proposal from the Ministry of Energy, Trade, and Industry, the Council of Ministers approved the revision of the framework for the registration of Companies with Foreign Interests. The decision strengthens compliance controls and accountability, with the aim of attracting businesses with a substantial presence and a genuine contribution to the Cypriot economy.
At the heart of the revised framework is the actual economic activity of businesses, regardless of the origin of their capital, with an emphasis on high-value-added sectors. In this context, the Register is renamed the “Business Service Center Register.”
Particular emphasis is placed on effective monitoring of compliance. A clear mechanism is established for removing companies that do not meet the specified criteria or fail to fulfill their obligations. Compliance checks regarding the 70%–30% employment ratio criterion will be conducted seven years after each company’s date of registration in the Registry. This provision also applies to companies already registered. At the same time, starting on the 1st of January, 2027, the submission of an annual employment report will become mandatory.
The revised framework also provides for the retention of registration and related benefits for existing and additional staff when the ultimate beneficiaries acquire Cypriot or other European citizenship, provided that the company operates in eligible sectors and continues to meet the required conditions.
This decision is part of a broader effort to revise the Strategy for Attracting Businesses and Talent, which is currently underway and is expected to be completed by December 2026.