Embarking on the journey of buying property in Cyprus is an exciting venture, yet it comes with its own set of legal and financial intricacies. Among these are various fees and taxes, such as transfer fees and Value Added Tax (VAT), which are crucial for prospective buyers to understand. This guide aims to demystify these costs, providing clarity and aiding you in making well-informed decisions in your property acquisition process.
Navigating Transfer Fees in Cyprus
When you register a property in your name at the Department of Lands and Surveys, you're required to pay transfer fees. These fees are calculated based on the property's market value at the time of purchase, taking into account the purchase price and the Land Registry's evaluation.
Transfer Fee Structure:
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For properties valued up to €85,000, the fee is 3%.
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Between €85,001 and €170,000, the fee increases to 5%.
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For values over €170,000, the fee is 8%.
Example Calculation for a €200,000 Property (Excluding VAT):
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First €85,000 at 3% = €2,550
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Next €85,000 at 5% = €4,250
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Remaining €30,000 at 8% = €2,400
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Total Transfer Fee (Before Reduction): €9,200
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With a 50% Reduction (For Non-VAT Properties): €4,600
Special Considerations:
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Properties exempt from VAT enjoy a 50% reduction in transfer fees.
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No transfer fees are charged on VAT-applicable properties.
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Joint property purchases may qualify for a discount.
Value Added Tax (VAT) on Cyprus Property Purchases
VAT is applicable to new property purchases in Cyprus. The standard rate is 19%, but there's a special reduced rate for primary residences under certain conditions.
Reduced VAT Scheme (Effective from June 2023):
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A 5% VAT rate applies to the first 130 sq m of a primary residence.
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Eligibility criteria include a property value cap of €350,000 and a total transaction value not exceeding €475,000.
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The total constructed internal area must not surpass 190 sq m.
Transitional Rules for Pre-October 2023 Approvals:
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Properties with planning permission submitted before 31 October 2023 fall under the previous 5% VAT regime, applicable to the first 200 sq m.
VAT Calculation Examples:
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100 sqm Apartment at €200,000 (New Rules): 5% VAT = €10,000
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350 sqm Property at €200,000 (Transitional Rules): 5% VAT for the first 200 sq m; standard 19% VAT for the remaining 150 sq m
Stamp Duty: A Key Consideration in Property Transactions
Stamp duty is imposed on legal documents related to property transfers.
Key Aspects:
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Applicability: Required on the purchase agreement before lodging it with the Land Registry.
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Rates: No stamp duty for values up to €5,000; 0.15% for €5,001 to €170,000; and 0.20% for values over €170,000.
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Payment Deadline: Within 30 days of contract signing.
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Additional Copies: €2 per additional copy, typically requiring four copies.
Example for a €200,000 Property:
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First €170,000 at 0.15% = €255
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Remaining €30,000 at 0.20% = €60
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Total Stamp Duty: €315
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Additional Copies: €8
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Total with Copies: €323
The Crucial Step of Agreement Lodging
Agreement lodging is the formal recording of a property transaction.
Process and Significance:
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Submission to Land Registry: Essential for legal recognition.
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Protects Buyer's Rights: Safeguards against subsequent claims.
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Timeframe: Typically within a few months post-signing.
Fees and Charges:
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Lodging Charge: A standard fee of €50 by the LR.
Seek Expert Guidance
For personalized advice, reach out to us at Galbo Consulting, your trusted partner in Cyprus property transactions.
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Email: info@znatylaw.com
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Phone: +35725000194
Embarking on a property purchase in Cyprus involves navigating a landscape of legal and financial obligations. Understanding these costs, from transfer fees to VAT and stamp duty, is crucial for a smooth transaction. With this guide, you're equipped with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions, ensuring a successful property acquisition in Cyprus.