Navigating VAT in Cyprus

This guide provides an overview of VAT in Cyprus, including applicable rates, registration requirements, compliance obligations, and filing deadlines. It is designed for businesses engaging in transactions within Cyprus.

Last Updated: January 2026
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1992

marked the year Cyprus introduced VAT as part of its EU-entry preparations.

Cyprus at a glance.

Standard rate

19% VAT

Digital services VAT

Yes, at 19%

Mandate e-invoicing

Voluntary

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Zero-rated items

Applies to the supply, lease and repair of seagoing vehicles and aircrafts, Braille type writers, vehicles for disabled persons, some food and baby products

VAT format

CY followed by 8 digits and 1 letter

Fiscal representation

Yes, required for non-EU businesses conducting VAT-related activities in Cyprus

Reclaiming VAT in Cyprus.

Foreign businesses that incur VAT on eligible expenses in Cyrpus may be able to reclaim it.

Who can reclaim?
Cyprus applies the rule of reciprocity. This means Cyprus allows VAT refunds for foreign businesses, but only if they are based in approved countries.
Eligible countries include:
Claimable expenses:
Entertainment
5% / 9% / 19%
Accommodation
9%
Food, drink & restaurant services
9% / 5%
Entertainment 1 2
Hiring means of transport
0%
Fuel
19%
Public Transport
9% / 5%
Taxis
9%
Entertainment 2 1
Admission to fairs & exhibitions
19%
Training courses & seminars
19%
Goods
19%
Inter-company charges
19%
Office expenses
19%
Marketing costs
19%
Professional fees & AP invoices
19%
Entertainment 4
VAT compliance in Cyprus.

Doing business in Cyprus? You’ll need to play by the Cyprus VAT Act rules.

Who needs to register?

Registration is required only once your business exceeds the threshold in Cyprus. 

VAT registration in Cyprus
VAT filing deadlines in Cyprus

Quarterly

10th day of the second month following the quarter

VAT payment deadlines in Cyprus

Quarterly

10th day of the second month following the quarter

Digital services in scope
Things to note

Cyprus applies VAT on digital services based on the consumer’s location, generally utilizing the OSS system for EU cross-border services.

e-invoicing in Cyprus.
Summary of the mandate in this country

B2G mandate in place

Yes

B2B mandate in place

No

B2C mandate in place

No

Obligation status: B2B e-Invoicing

From 1 July 2030

B2B e-Invoicing model

N/A

Name of exchange infrastructure

Cyprus Government Gateway e-Invoicing portal

Format(s) used

EN16931 CIUS (Peppol BIS 3.0 accepted via Peppol AP)

FAQs

Late VAT Cyprus submissions may result in financial penalties and interest charges. Under Cyprus VAT law, the standard fine is €100 per late return, plus interest on unpaid amounts. Timely filings help avoid these costs and ensure compliance with the correct Cyprus VAT code.

Cyprus applies reduced VAT rates of 5% and 9% to certain goods and services. Foreign businesses reclaiming VAT should apply the correct Cyprus VAT rate code when reviewing expenses. A Cyprus VAT calculator can help estimate reclaimable amounts based on applicable rates.

Businesses must provide valid invoices, proof of payment, and evidence that the expenses are for business use. Claims under Cyprus VAT law require the correct application of Cyprus VAT rates. Refunds on international purchases such as Cyprus VAT charged on property services must comply with local regulations.

Nearby countries.

Explore indirect tax information in these countries:

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