Can foreigners buy property in Cyprus?
Yes. EU citizens can buy property in Cyprus with no restrictions, the same as Cypriots. Non-EU (third-country) nationals can also buy, but generally need permission from the Council of Ministers (in practice the District Administration) under the Acquisition of Immovable Property (Aliens) Law, Cap. 109, and are normally limited to one home or a building plot.
Key facts at a glance
- EU buyers
- no restriction, same as Cypriots
- Non-EU buyers
- need District/Council of Ministers permission
- Non-EU limit
- generally one dwelling or one building plot
- Legal basis
- Acquisition of Immovable Property (Aliens) Law, Cap. 109
- Authority
- Department of Lands & Surveys (DLS)
Rules for EU versus non-EU buyers
EU, EEA and Swiss nationals buy on the same footing as Cypriots, with no special permission. Third-country (non-EU) nationals may acquire immovable property but must obtain permission under Cap. 109 and are usually limited to a single residence or one building plot for their own use.
The permission process for non-EU buyers
A non-EU buyer signs the contract and applies to the District Administration for acquisition permission, submitting identification, the contract and property details. Buyers can normally take possession while the application is processed; permission is generally granted for bona fide purchasers.
Taxes and fees when buying
Buyers should budget for transfer fees (or VAT on new property), stamp duty on the contract, and legal and due-diligence costs. Lodging the contract of sale with the Department of Lands & Surveys protects the buyer’s position pending transfer of title.
Harris Koufettas
Managing Partner · Cyprus Bar R.N.4466 · Harris Koufettas & Associates LLC (R.N.655)
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