Foreign Interest Companies
Establish a Cyprus company with majority foreign ownership and streamlined work & residence permits for your third-country nationals.
Registration & Setup
We handle all steps to register your Foreign Interest Company:
- Company incorporation with majority non-Cypriot shareholders
- Registration in the Register of Foreign Interest Companies (BFU)
- Drafting and filing of Memorandum & Articles of Association
Work & Residence Permits
Secure legal status for your foreign staff under the Single Permit scheme:
- Single Permit applications for employees, directors & specialists
- Liaison with the Civil Registry & Migration Department
- Permit renewals and extensions (valid 3 years)
- Family reunification rights for employees
Governance & Compliance
Maintain regulatory standards and corporate governance:
- Preparation of annual returns and statutory filings
- Board resolutions, shareholder meetings and minute-keeping
- VAT registration and ongoing tax compliance
- Advisory on AML/KYC and data protection requirements
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifies a company as a “Foreign Interest Company”?
Generally, majority foreign shareholding and registration with Cyprus’ Business Facilitation Unit (BFU). We review your structure and advise on eligibility and documentation.
Can existing Cyprus companies convert to “Foreign Interest” status?
Yes. If your shareholding meets the required thresholds and you satisfy BFU criteria, an existing entity can apply for registration.
Which categories of staff can we bring to Cyprus?
Directors, key personnel, specialists and— subject to quotas and role definitions — support staff. We map roles to the appropriate Single Permit category.
How long do work & residence permits take, and how long are they valid?
After a complete file is lodged, approvals can be relatively fast-tracked; permits are commonly issued for up to 3 years, with renewals available. Timelines vary based on case complexity and seasonal volumes.
Do employees’ family members have reunification rights?
Yes. Eligible dependants (spouses and minor children) can apply for residence permits under family reunification provisions tied to the employee’s permit.