Can foreigners buy property in Cyprus?

Yes. EU citizens buy on the same terms as Cypriots. Buyers from outside the EU need a permit from the district office, a routine step handled by your lawyer.

Do I need to be in Cyprus to buy?

No. Everything from reservation to transfer can be done through a power of attorney given to your lawyer. See how to buy, step by step.

What does it cost on top of the price?

On a new home, VAT and legal fees; on a resale, Land Registry transfer fees and legal fees. With a mortgage, add 1% of the loan. See the cost of buying property.

Is VAT 5% or 19% on a new home?

19% as standard. 5% can apply to the first 130 m² and €350,000 of a main residence up to 190 m² and €475,000. See VAT: 5% or 19%.

Is there still stamp duty in Cyprus?

No. Stamp duty was abolished for contracts signed from 1 January 2026.

How are payments made when buying off-plan?

A reservation deposit, then instalments tied to construction stages, with the balance on completion. The schedule is written into the sale contract.

What protects me before the title deed is in my name?

Depositing the sale contract at the Land Registry within 6 months of signing. It blocks any sale or charge without your consent. See title deeds in Cyprus.

Can I get a mortgage as a non-resident?

From some banks, usually for 50% to 70% of the value. See mortgages for foreign buyers.

Does buying property give me residency?

Buyers from outside the EU can get permanent residence by buying a new home of at least €300,000 plus VAT, with €50,000 a year of income from abroad. See permanent residency by property.

What rental yield can I expect?

Apartments in Cyprus yielded about 5.5% gross in mid-2026. See rental yield in Limassol.

buyer's guide

Buying property in Cyprus: common questions

Short answers to the questions buyers from abroad ask us most, each with a link to the full guide.

Updated October 19, 2026

Common questions

Sources

Figures on this page were checked against these sources on the date above.

Ministry of Interior - Purchasing property (non-EU buyers)
Department of Lands and Surveys - Contract of Sale, Consideration, Exchange (deposit)
KPMG Cyprus - Reduced VAT rate 5% on the supply or construction of a new dwelling
KPMG - Cyprus: repeal of stamp duty laws (January 2026)
Central Bank of Cyprus - Directive on credit granting and review processes (consolidated)
Michael Kyprianou - New amendments to the Cyprus Permanent Residence Scheme under Regulation 6(2) (May 2023)
RICS Cyprus Property Index with KPMG in Cyprus - Q2 2026

General information as of October 2026, not legal or tax advice. Rates, limits and procedures change; confirm every point with an independent Cypriot lawyer or tax adviser before you commit.

Buying property in Cyprus: common questions

Common questions

Sources

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