UBO Registration in Cyprus: 3 Things You Need to Know
In the EU, a UBO (Ultimate Beneficial Owner) is defined as the natural person(s) who ultimately owns or controls a legal entity or legal arrangement, such as a company, partnership, trust, or foundation. The concept of it is designed to enhance transparency and prevent the use of legal entities for money laundering and financing terrorism.
To this end, many EU countries have implemented legislation that requires legal entities to identify their UBOs and to register this information with the relevant authorities. This process is known as UBO registration in Cyprus and other EU countries. The specific requirements vary from country to country, but generally, legal entities are required to provide information about their UBOs, such as their name, date of birth, nationality, and residential address.
In Cyprus, the process has been integrated into the national framework, making it essential for businesses operating in the country to comply with these transparency regulations.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about the UBO Registration in Cyprus, including the step-by-step process, legal requirements, and how RebaseCyprus can simplify the entire procedure for you.
Why is UBO Registration Important for Companies in Cyprus?
UBO Register plays a critical role in ensuring a transparent and trustworthy business environment. Companies operating on the island must comply with these regulations to align with international standards and maintain credibility.
Here’s why it matters:
- Enhancing Transparency in Business Transactions:
Strengthens accountability by revealing the individuals who control or benefit from a company. It prevents the misuse of legal structures for activities like tax evasion, fraud, or money laundering. Transparent ownership builds trust between companies, investors, and authorities, fostering a reliable business climate in Cyprus. - Compliance with EU Anti-Money Laundering Laws:
The EU introduced these regulations to combat financial crimes such as terrorism financing and money laundering. The country adopted these requirements to align with EU-wide policies. Businesses that register their UBOs show commitment to these standards, ensuring smoother operations within the EU market and avoiding unnecessary scrutiny from regulators. - Consequences of Non-Compliance:
Failure to complete it can result in significant penalties, legal action, and damage to reputation. Companies without proper registration may face difficulties accessing financial services, including opening a bank account in Cyprus. Non-compliance may also lead to restrictions on operations or the inability to conduct cross-border business effectively.
By understanding the importance of it, businesses operating can take proactive steps to meet regulatory requirements and avoid risks.
Key Information Required for UBO Registration in Cyprus
To complete the registration, companies must submit specific information about the ultimate beneficial owner.
This includes:
- Full name of the Ultimate Beneficial Owner
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Residential address
- Nature and extent of ownership or control over the entity
Accuracy is essential. Incorrect or incomplete data may result in delays or rejection of the registration. Companies should verify all information before submitting it through the required channels.
Cyprus requires companies to register their Owner promptly after incorporation. Any changes to UBO details, such as ownership structure or address, must be updated within 14 days to avoid penalties. Annual reviews may also be necessary to ensure compliance with local and EU regulations.
By staying up-to-date with registration requirements and meeting deadlines, companies can maintain compliance and avoid legal or financial risks.
UBO Submission Deadlines & Compliance Obligations
To remain compliant with Cyprus regulations, companies must adhere to strict deadlines when submitting and updating UBO information.
- Within 30 days of incorporation: Newly registered companies must submit UBO details within the first 30 days after incorporation.
- Within 30 days of any changes: If there are changes in ownership or control, the updated UBO information must be submitted within 30 days of the change.
- Annual confirmation in November-December: All registered companies must confirm their UBO details once per year between November and December, even if no changes have occurred.
Only individuals who own or control more than 25% of the company are required to be declared as UBOs. If an individual holds less than 25%, their details do not need to be included in the register.
RebaseCyprus: Simplifying and Compliance
Managing this registration can be complex, especially when dealing with strict deadlines and detailed information requirements. RebaseCyprus offers a complete solution, ensuring businesses in Cyprus remain fully compliant without unnecessary stress.
Our team handles the entire process, including:
- Creating and verifying your profile in the Government Portal
- Submitting accurate UBO details on your behalf
- Updating information in case of changes to ownership or structure
- Ensuring compliance with all deadlines and regulations
With RebaseCyprus, company directors and shareholders can focus on running their business while we manage all administrative aspects. As part of our incorporation packages, this service is seamlessly integrated, so you don’t have to worry about missing any regulatory requirements.
Arrange a consultation with us and we will help you to establish your business here.
How UBO Registration Connects to Other Key Business Processes
The registration is not an isolated process—it’s closely connected to several critical steps in establishing and running a business in Cyprus.
Here’s how these processes align and why managing them together ensures compliance and business efficiency:
- Register a Company in Cyprus:
When you register a company, the registration becomes a mandatory requirement. During the incorporation process, the Registrar of Companies requires transparency about the individuals who own or control the entity. Submitting accurate information about the Ultimate Beneficial Owners ensures your company is fully compliant from the start, avoiding delays or complications in obtaining approval for your business registration. - VAT Registration Cyprus:
Once your company is registered, VAT registration is often the next step for businesses engaging in taxable activities. Since VAT compliance involves financial transactions and tax reporting, the authorities need clear visibility into the company’s ownership structure. The registration supports this transparency, ensuring smooth processing of VAT applications and ongoing compliance. - Taxation Cyprus:
Cyprus offers one of the most attractive corporate tax regimes in Europe, including a low corporate tax rate of 12.5%. However, to enjoy these benefits, companies must operate within the framework of local regulations. Transparent ownership details help authorities confirm eligibility for tax incentives and ensure compliance with anti-avoidance laws, allowing businesses to maximize tax advantages. - Non-Domicile Cyprus Status:
The non-domicile Cyprus status provides significant tax benefits for individual shareholders and business owners, such as exemptions on dividends and interest income. To apply for and maintain this status, authorities often review the company’s structure and ownership, making UBO registration in Cyprus essential. Providing accurate UBO information demonstrates your compliance and eligibility for these benefits.
UBO Registration in Cyprus – FAQ
1. What Happens if You Fail to Register?
Failure to complete it in Cyprus can result in significant penalties. Authorities may impose fines on companies that do not comply with the registration requirements. Non-registration can also lead to difficulties in opening a bank account or maintaining existing financial relationships. Additionally, non-compliance may damage a company’s reputation, affecting its ability to conduct business locally and internationally.
2. Who Needs to Register as a UBO?
Every legal entity operating in the country is required to register its UBO. This includes companies, partnerships, trusts, and foundations. A UBO is any individual who directly or indirectly owns or controls more than 25% of the company’s shares, voting rights, or other forms of ownership. It also includes those who exercise significant influence over the company, even without direct ownership.
3. Can RebaseCyprus Assist with UBO Compliance?
Yes, RebaseCyprus provides complete assistance with the registration and compliance. From creating your profile in the ARIADNE portal to submitting the necessary documents and updates, our team ensures the process is handled efficiently. We simplify compliance requirements, help avoid penalties, and ensure your company operates within Cyprus’s legal framework. With RebaseCyprus, the process becomes stress-free and straightforward.
