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Cyprus

SYNOPSIS: Independent sovereign state having gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1960. The Turkish invasion in 1974 created a seperate Turkish controlled territory called 'North Cyprus' but it is not recognised by the United Nations or the European Union. This text refers to 'Greek' Cyprus which is a full member of the European Union and enjoys a favourable tax treaty network with Eastern Europe and very favourable corporate tax rates. The jurisdiction also has one of the Worlds largest merchant fleets

 
 
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LOCATION

South East of Greece and north of Africa. Size 3,572 sq. miles. Population 700,000

 

RELATIONSHIP WITH THE UK

Former British Colony but now a full European Union Member with very close relations with both Greece and the United Kingdom. Tensions can flare up occasionally due to UK maintenance of two 'Sovereign' military bases on the Island
 
Perhaps even more importantly, as the tax exempt/holding company structures have been sanctioned by the European Union Commission, it is very difficult for other EU member states to discriminate against Madeira based Portuguese companies through their general anti-avoidance tax provisions. Certainly Madeira is unique in its ability to provide such benefits within the EU and is without doubt the best location for inter-EU trading/holding companies and for high earning international consultants looking for a legal cost effective base for their activities.
 
 

ADVANTAGES OF A CYPRIOT COMPANIES

 
  • A full member of the European Union
  • English the language of business and commerce
  • Favourable tax treaty benefits for UK citizens/retirees
  • A universal 10% corporate tax rate
  • Corporate Law based upon that of England
  • Trusts recognised
  • Excellent communication
  • Irish/Cypriot Tax Treaty of 1973 allows for very favourable treatment of royalties, dividends and interest and further gives Cypriot companies access to Ireland's very extensive tax treaty network with Western countries and in particular the United States
  • Many professionals have trained in the UK
  • Many UK banks have a local presence
  • Low crime rates
 

Incorporation

 
The formation procedure in Cyprus adheres to standard common law practice. In most cases, a company will be formed on the instructions of a client through the use of the registered agent as the initial incorporator. The governing statutes are known as the memorandum and articles of association. In most cases 'nominee' directors will be maintained to ensure confidentiality. Remember, a register of members must be maintained at the company's registered office in the Nicosia. 'Directors', (nominee or not) arrange for the issuance of shares and take all other normal board decisions.
 

CORPORATE REQUIREMENTS

 

Name: The name of the corporation may be in Greek or English. It must contain the word(s): Limited or Public Limited Company

Capital: The authorised share capital will normally be expressed in Euros and can have as little as €2.00 in issued shares. Authorised share capital is normally at least €1,000.00 but often much more.

Registered office/agent: All companies incorporated in Cyprus must maintain both a registered office and agent in the jurisdiction.


Amendments: Amendments are made in accordance with the terms and conditions outlined in the memorandum and articles of association. In most cases, either the board of directors or shareholders must take important decisions.

 
 

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Major Tax Systems: France - Germany - Spain - The United Kingdom

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