CYPRUS

New Rules for Low-Tax & Blacklisted Jurisdictions

Key withholding tax rates, deduction denials, and compliance deadlines you must know.

Cyprus Tightens Tax Rules on Low-Tax & Blacklisted Jurisdictions

Cyprus has enacted major tax law changes targeting low-tax jurisdictions (LTJs) and non-cooperative “blacklisted” jurisdictions (BLJs). These measures significantly affect holding, financing, and IP structures involving Cyprus, with new withholding taxes, deduction denials and compliance obligations.

What’s in Force Now vs. Coming Soon

Table 1: Payments to Low-Tax Jurisdictions (from 1 Jan 2026)

Table 2: Payments to Low-Tax Jurisdictions (in force since April 2025)

Other Key Points

Substance Tests – Lack of genuine business activity can trigger deduction denial and WHT.

Penalties – Non-compliance can result in fines up to €10,000.

Treaty Changes – Possible renegotiation of DTTs with LTJs and BLJs.

Action Required

If your structure involves LTJs or BLJs, review it immediately to avoid:

Loss of deductions

Unexpected withholding taxes

Administrative penalties

📩 Contact us today for a confidential review of your exposure and compliance options.