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Cyprus Info

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Location

Cyprus is an island in the north eastern part of the Mediterranean Sea, strategically located at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa. It has an area of 9.251 sq. km. Cyprus has been a full member of the European Union since May 2004. It has enjoyed years of economic growth and development.

Climate

Cyprus has an excellent climate with 300 sunshine days every year. Winters are mild and the rainy season is confined between November and March. At the same time ski lovers can enjoy their sport on the Troodos mountain range and the Olympos slopes between December and April each year.

History

Despite its small size Cyprus has one of the oldest recorded histories in the world. The first signs of civilisation can be found here dating back to 9000BC. Around 1200BC the island began to acquire its present identidy with the arrival of the ancient Mycenaean-Achaean from Greece. A number of nations conquered Cyprus over the years, a proof of its strategic importance for the region. The island is full of monuments that reflect their passing by.

Geography

Since 1974 the northern part of the island has been under the control of  the Turkish army. In the government controlled areas reside 720.000 people, mainly Greek Cypriots. A large expatriate community is also present and English is widely spoken. The capital of Cyprus is Nicosia located in the middle of the island. The other towns, all on the coast, are Limassol, Larnaca and Paphos. In the area of Famagusta not under Turkish occupation, we find Paralimni and Ayia Napa with the island's most beautiful sandy beaches. 

Political System

The constitution of Cyprus provides for a presidential system with the legislative power exercised by the House Of Representatives. Both the president and the members of the house of representatives are direclty elected at five year intervals.

Health Care - Social Services

The standard of health care is very high and compares very favourably with other European and developed countries. It is provided by the state medical service and the private sector. In the latter one finds a number of private practices and hospitals (polyclinics). EU nationals are of course entitled to settle down and work in Cyprus. Additionally depending on the individual circumstances they may be entitled to a number of state benefits and social services.

Investment / Buying Property in Cyprus

There are no restrictions in setting up a business in Cyprus and the current tax regime is one of the most favourable in the European Union. Cyprus also has a number of double tax treaties that allow a very efficient tax planning for individuals and business alike.

Buying a propery in Cyprus is a simple, quick, effective and secure process. The Department of Land and Surveys is the oldest government department and provides registration of title services to every person thus securing property rights.

A standard process for acquiring a property would be:

1. Pay a holding deposit once a property is selected.

2. Appoint a lawyer for advice and sign contract of sale.

3. Deposit contract to the Land Registry securing Specific Performance rights against the vendor.

4. Transfer of title at the Land Registry once separate titles for the specific property are issued.

 Additional Information

For further information or expert advice on specific subjects we shall be happy to assist you.