Cyprus
AI Agent Legal Status: partial · Autonomy: moderate
Legal Framework
Cyprus is subject to the EU AI Act and has positioned itself as a favorable jurisdiction for international business. The country's common law heritage (from British colonial period) creates a familiar legal environment for international companies. Cyprus offers an attractive IP Box regime and favorable holding company structures.
Key Laws & Regulations
- ◆EU AI Act
- ◆GDPR
- ◆Companies Law, Cap. 113
- ◆Income Tax Law
Business Formation
Private Limited Company is the standard entity with no minimum capital requirement. English is widely used in business and legal proceedings. Company formation is efficient and relatively inexpensive.
Tax Implications
Corporate tax rate is 12.5%, among the lowest in the EU. IP Box regime taxes qualifying IP income at an effective rate of approximately 2.5%. Extensive double-tax treaty network. No withholding tax on dividends to non-residents in many cases.
Opportunities
Extremely competitive IP tax regime ideal for AI companies with significant intellectual property. Low corporate tax with extensive treaty network. Gateway between EU and Middle Eastern markets.
Highlights
Very low 12.5% corporate tax rate with an IP Box regime yielding approximately 2.5% effective rate on qualifying IP income. Common law system familiar to UK/US companies. English widely spoken in business.
Risks & Challenges
EU AI Act compliance required. Smaller tech ecosystem and talent pool. Perception issues related to historical use as a tax-planning jurisdiction.