F.A.Q.

In Cyprus, there are public and private schools, characterized by very high levels of education. Certain schools operate according to the Russian school curriculum and teaching there is conducted in Russian. Continuing education can be received at accredited universities and colleges in Cyprus. The cost of education in comparison to European standards is quite low. It is also important that, while studying in Cyprus, you or your child can perfectly master the English language.

The Cyprus banking system is based on the British model. Cypriot banks are the most reliable and efficient, utilizing the latest information technology. In addition to local banks on the island, there is a large number of international banks.

The low crime rate (compared to other Mediterranean countries e.g., Italy, Spain, France) is one of the most important factors attracting foreigners to the island and contributing to buying property in Cyprus.

The cost of the property depends on its size, location, distance from the sea, urban infrastructure, and, of course, condition. The Cyprus property market has a wide price range, from budget options to luxury real estate. (Price range from EUR 1,500 to EUR 10 000 per square meter)

Cyprus has only one type of ownership, which is an unconditional right of tenure.

A «Title Deed» — is a document, that guarantees the right of ownership of property. This type of document is received when the property is registered at the Land Office. In carrying out this procedure, a registration fee is paid, which depends on the property’s market value. When issuing title deeds, the purchaser’s name is recorded in the government archives. When buying a property that is under construction or a recently completed project, as a rule, just a registration of the contract is confirmed, and the title is issued to a developer-only after an inspection by a special commission, which compares the finished project with the previously approved plan for construction. Usually, this process takes about 2 years. The absence of this document does not limit you to conducting any operations with this property — sales, leasing and putting it up on bail bond, etc.

The transfer process of real estate to the name of the new owner is a very simple procedure. You only pay the registration fee in the District Branch of the Land Registration Office. Value is calculated as follows, based on the value of the property.

Monthly payments. If you have a house or apartment in the complex, with common areas (garden, pool, tennis court, etc.) then you pay for data service territory. Depending on the type and area of the property, the amount may vary from 30 to 170 EUR per month.

Property in Cyprus is subject to compulsory insurance only if it is purchased on credit. If not, then the question of property insurance is your personal choice.

Buying Property in Cyprus is a simple and safe procedure in which the involvement of an attorney is not necessary. If we are faced with an unusual case that requires further consultation, we recommend referring to our reliable, highly qualified partners. Detailed information can be found here: http://www.aretilaw.com

Yes. Cypriot law is based on the British model, therefore, all property rights are protected, and you can conduct any real estate transactions to obtain the title page.

Our experts continuously monitor the process, taking pictures of each stage of construction and sending them to you as a report via mail. If you have the opportunity to come, it is always possible to have a tour of the facility.

This is completely optional, depending on the instructions regarding the purchase you can instruct a lawyer who will represent your interests. Any information you need will immediately be given by our experts or your representative.

Getting credit for buying property in Cyprus is a rather simple procedure, credit can be obtained by citizens of the EU, Russia, etc. The loan amount is typically 60-70% of the purchase price, repayment period — is up to 20 years, at an average rate of 4-6% per annum. Banks offer various schemes depending on the conditions of payment and deferred payments. High liquidity and real estate prices make minimal credit risks, which causes less favorable interest rates and ease of procedure.

When you purchase the completed project, the first payment is 30-40% of the cost (when signing a contract), and the remaining amount can either be taken as a loan from the bank and paid by the banking scheme, or by a scheme drawn up and approved from the company-builder. Upon acquisition of the object under construction, payment terms require tranche payments. For this purpose, a contract with the plan for their implementation is prepared and signed.

All guests of Cyprus can drive a car with the driver’s license of their country, for up to 6 months of continuous residence. Then the license need to be exchanged for the local one or the exam must be retaken to get a Cyprus driving license.

The Department of social protection of Animals can consult you and advise you regarding the import and export of animals in Cyprus. You can contact the following numbers: (357) 26946961, fax: (357) 26222236. Or visit the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Cyprus, for more information: http://mfa.gov.cy